In the News

PHILADELPHIA, PA (Nov. 1, 2018) — Fashion meets football for the fifth annual Fashion Touchdown runway show, as Philadelphia Eagles players and their significant others will sashay down the catwalk in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence (BBBS Independence). Together, these community-minded athletes will tackle issues of childhood adversity by helping raise critical funds needed to support BBBS Independence’s mission of building and supporting one-to-one relationships that ignite the best possible futures for youth. The event is the agency’s largest fundraiser and has set a fundraising goal of $800,000.

This year’s event, presented by Marrone Law Firm, LLC, will take place on November 5, 2018, at The Fillmore Philadelphia. “Having presented this event for the past two years, I hold a special place in my heart for Big Brothers Big Sisters and the incredibly impactful and important work they do for so many young people,” said Joseph M. Marrone, Esquire, founder of Marrone Law Firm, LLC and BBBS Independence governing board member. “Truly, the work of volunteer mentors is invaluable. By providing dedicated and concentrated support, they have helped thousands of children overcome hardship, improve their self-esteem, and gain the confidence needed to reach their fullest potential.

We’re so proud to continue the legacy of support by presenting the fifth annual Fashion Touchdown fundraiser. We are especially grateful to the Philadelphia Eagles and their significant others who will be there, as well as the sponsors and individuals who will support by purchasing tickets.” Fashionistas and downtown shoppers alike will recognize iconic womenswear designer, Nicole Miller, who will be in attendance and orchestrating the fashion show. Nicole will show part of her collections, which will be available at two of her Philadelphia flagship locations. “We are thrilled to be back as part of this wonderful event and support an organization that has such a positive impact on the wellbeing of children across the Philadelphia region,” said Mary Dougherty, owner of Nicole Miller Philadelphia. “As Philadelphians, we are always looking for ways to give back to the community we love, and we’re honored to help raise awareness and encourage individuals to become positive role models as a Big Brother or Big Sister to children.”

In true Philadelphia fashion, Eagles players will showcase custom-made suits from “haberdasher by day, safety by night” Malcolm Jenkins’ clothing line, Damari Savile. Trading in helmets and jerseys for suits and bow ties, players participating in this year’s event include safeties Rodney McLeod, Malcolm Jenkins, and Chris Maragos, tight end Zach Ertz, defensive end Brandon Graham, linebacker Jordan Hicks, cornerback Jalen Mills, former tight end Brent Celek, and former offensive guard Todd Herremans.

This night of football, fun, fashion, and philanthropy will kick off with a VIP pre-party, featuring cocktails, light bites, and trendy pop-up shops from featured designer, Nicole Miller. While guests enjoy cocktails and refreshments, FOX 29 Good Day Philadelphia co-anchors Mike Jerrick and Alex Holley will emcee the highlight of the evening— a star-studded fashion show. Hair will be provided by Jason Matthew Salon, makeup by beauty giant Anastasia Beverly Hills, and men’s grooming by DAPR Grooming Parlour.

Event-goers also have the opportunity to win exceptional, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including the chance to meet world champion boxer, Bernard Hopkins, at New York City’s Madison Square Garden. The top bidder will attend a weigh-in with Bernard and sit ringside at the December 15th middleweight championship bout between Canelo Alvarez and Rocky Fielding.

Nicole Miller will also auction a package experience, including two invitations to attend the Nicole Miller 2019 New York Runway Show, a signed original Nicole Miller sketch, a $1000 gift certificate for future purchases at Nicole Miller Philadelphia locations, and an exclusive Nicole Miller Eagles jacket signed by Nicole Miller herself and Eagles players.

Top Chef winner, Chef Nick Elmi of Laurel Restaurant and RoyalBoucherie, will be auctioning off a 10course, in-home dinner, including wine pairings.

Finally, attendees have the opportunity to bid for a Perry Milou original custom artwork, valued at $10,000. Collaborating with BBBS Independence, Bernard Hopkins, mentors, board members, and Eagles players Chris Maragos and Rodney McLeod, Milou has created an unforgettable piece that has captured the spirit of Philadelphia.

“For the fifth year in a row, we are incredibly honored to present our Fashion Touchdown event. It is events like this that keep our mission, and the stories of the youth we serve, front and center,” said Marcus Allen, CEO of BBBS Independence. “I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention how crucial the support of Marrone Law Firm, Nicole Miller Philadelphia, and the Philadelphia Eagles has been in helping us reach our goals over the last four years. We are proud to have them as a part of our team to help raise critical funds necessary to support youth in our region. With more than 1,200 children still waiting for mentors of their own, Fashion Touchdown will help change many more lives for the better.”

This event would not be possible without the following event sponsors and partners:

EVENT SPONSORS
Marrone Law Firm

TOUCHSTONE SPONSORS
AmerisourceBergen
Bank of America
Mutual of America

FIELD GOAL SPONSORS
The Higgins Group
Scott and Sharon Rankin

SAFETY SPONSORS
UPS

EXTRA POINT SPONSORS
Tito’s Handmade Vodka
The HOW Group
Universal Funding
FINdustries

KICKOFF SPONSORS
Thrivest Legal Funding
Silver Heart Healthcare

HALFTIME SPONSORS
Coca-Cola
Independence Blue Cross
iMALOGIX
Health Plan Partners
Marrone Financial
Exude

EVENT PARTNERS
Nicole Miller Philadelphia
Damari Savile
Jason Matthew Salon
DAPR Grooming Parlour
Anastasia Beverly Hills
The Fillmore Philadelphia
Live Nation
Brûlée Catering
Casamigos Tequila
Yards Brewing Company
Stateside Urbancraft Vodka
Philadelphia Magazine