Haute with Heart Fashion Show

Beginning in 1966, St Madeline Sophie’s Center started as a one classroom, eight student preschool for children with developmental disabilities. The first building was opened on May 25th, 1966 on the feast day of St Madeline Sophie and the centenary of her death. The preschool began was to prepare children for public school, and many parents come out on Saturdays to help St Madeline Sophie’s Center.

It wasn’t until 1975 that new federal laws mandated the public school system assume responsibility for teaching these young students. The new law required schools to implement training methods for the teachers to better meet the needs of the students with developmental disabilities. Thanks to the change in federal law, the children entered a whole new world filled with different social interaction opportunities. With their higher skill sets, students were able to have higher aspirations and expectations for their future, living full and productive lives. 

Maxine Kramer, RSCJ became director in 1968, and she guided the organization as it changed its focus from preparing young children with developmental disabilities for preschool to serving adults with developmental disabilities. After the first twelve adult students were enrolled, Kramer launched the four-pronged program, which included independent living skills, arts such as dance and visual arts, pre-vocational training, and education continuing math, reading, and other basic education programs. St Madeline Sophie’s Center now has 400 adult students enrolled in their program. 

On August 13th, 2016, St Madeline Sophie’s Center will be hosting its 39^th annual Haute with Heart fashion show and luncheon, starting at 10am. The event will take place at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront in downtown San Diego. The fashion show will be produced by fashion-forward Leonard Simpson with student and professional models showcasing some of the latest fashions on the runway. During the event there will be a fabulous boutique for shopping, both live and silent auctions, opportunity drawings, and heartwarming performances for the Center’s students which will undoubtedly earn standing ovations. The proceeds raised at the Haute with Heart fashion show and luncheon will benefit the numerous unique programs at St Madeline Sophie’s Center and the 400 students there. 

Consider coming out for a night in support of a great organization that is trying to make the world a better place for everyone. Tickets are on sale now for the 39^th annual Haute with Heart fashion show and luncheon. If you have a large group of friends, purchase a table and become a Table Captain for the event, or purchase and sponsor a table. Have a fashion-filled night, all in support of a great cause. 

Barona Resort & Casino, St. Madeline Sophie’s Auxiliary, Sycuan Casino, Giving Back, Kaiser Permanente, Marcoa, and Lundy Insurance Services Inc. are all sponsoring the event in some way, so join their ranks and enjoy a night of Haute with Heart fashion. 

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