PASADENA, Md., June 12, 2025 — Hospice of the Chesapeake’s Fashion for a Cause event raised more than $305,000 on June 5, 2025, at the U.S. Naval Academy’s Fluegel Alumni Center in Annapolis. The annual fashion show, which surpassed last year’s fundraising total, supports the nonprofit’s community health programs, including pediatric hospice care, children’s grief counseling, and family support services.
The event drew a vibrant crowd for an evening of style and compassion. Guests enjoyed a red-carpet experience with local restaurant bites, personal magic performances by magician Chris Dugdale, and stories highlighting the nonprofit’s impact on families facing serious illness and loss. Bryan Nehman, co-host of C4 and Bryan Nehman on WBAL NewsRadio, returned for his fourth year as emcee, guiding attendees through the program.
The runway show featured dozens of looks from 18 Annapolis-area retailers and designers, including Craig Coates Couture, known for appearances at New York and Los Angeles Fashion Weeks. Professional models shared the stage with community members, showcasing styles from casual coastal wear to elegant evening attire. Women’s fashions were modeled by Dr. Melanie Bell, Lisa Caltabiano, Jacqueline Coche, Shekila Cole, Tara Collins, Megan Cooper, Carla Criste, Alexis Decker Dugdale, Marina Dugina, Terri Hussman, Kathleen Kryza, Kayen McNeal, Khylah Settle, Dana Smith, Tatiana Tabacek, Rose Walker, and Kristin Williams. Men’s fashions were presented by Mike Baldwin Jr., Jeremiah Batucan, Doug Beaver, Brian Berger, Kevin Campion, Chris Dugdale, Aaron Gaskins, John Hussman, Craig Johnson, Jay Jones IV, Josh Magariel, Jarret Simpson, Alexander Strachan, Brandon Temple, and Patrick Wergin.
“Proceeds from the event directly benefit the organization’s comprehensive community care offerings, with a special emphasis on pediatric hospice and grief support services that ensure no child or family has to walk the journey of serious illness or loss alone,” the organization stated. The funds will enhance programs that provide critical support to families in need across the region.
The event’s success relied on robust community support. The planning committee included Ashley Babaian, April Boera, Kevin Campion, Amy Castleberry, Georgie Clark, Gene Deems, Jennifer Daly, Melissa Frawley, Holly Frye-Atcherson, Dr. Parabh Gill, Mary Hyson, Mary Frances Isakov, Stacy Martin, Tim McDonough, Cary Melnyk, and Challie Samaras. Major sponsors included Presenting Sponsors John & Cathy Belcher and the Brian and Patricia Giese Foundation; Red Carpet Sponsors Genesis of Annapolis and Merrill Lynch Wealth Management—Murray, McGehrin, and Shiery; and Fashionista Sponsors such as Dragonfly Health, the George W. Stone Family Foundation, and the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center. First Citizens Bank underwrote the valet service.
Hospice of the Chesapeake, a nonprofit serving Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, and Prince George’s counties, provides hospice, palliative care, and grief support services. The Fashion for a Cause event has grown into one of Annapolis’s premier fundraising events, combining entertainment with a mission to support families during challenging times. The organization’s focus on pediatric and family services addresses a critical need, ensuring comprehensive care for those navigating serious illness or loss.
