Students enrolled in The Fashion Institute at Olds College will have an opportunity next week to try their hand at retail — and also extend it to people in need.
The institute, which is located at the Olds College Calgary Campus, in the South Tower of Bow Valley College, will operate a pop-up store from Oct. 21 to 25.
The temporary retail outlet will support Calgary’s Women In Need Society, a not-for-profit organization that operates thrift stores, a family resource centre, a free goods referral program and an employment program in the city.
Louise Hood, program co-ordinator of The Fashion Institute at Olds College, said fashion marketing students will take part.
“We have a room that’s kind of set up as a store, with windows and shelving and whatnot, so we’re just going to move the clothes right in there.”
Those clothes will come from Women In Need’s thrift shops.
“We’ve been collecting clothes for them as well,” said Hood.
“Our students are very excited to participate in this project. They recognize that there are a great number of women and families who are struggling, and are hoping to help the Women in Need Society not only raise funds, but awareness as well.
“It also directly relates to their future careers and gives them valuable experience towards their practicum,” she added.
Scott Backken, a representative of the Women in Need Society, said the retail help is appreciated.
“Support from organizations such as the Olds College Fashion Institute helps us to assist more women who are struggling, and their families.”
Hood would like to see the pop-up project repeated.
“I would love for it to be an annual event.”
The Women in Need Society pop-up store will be open next Monday to Friday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additional information can be found online at www.oldscollege.ca/events/Fashion_WomenInNeed/index.html.
Bow Valley College’s South Tower is located at 345 Sixth Ave. S.E.