Yarn Uniting Community: Where Creativity Meets Compassion

There are moments when a community comes together in a way that feels both inspiring and deeply meaningful, and the inaugural Yarn Uniting Community fashion show was exactly that.

Hosted in Elizabeth City, this one-of-a-kind event transformed handmade artistry into a runway experience, blending creativity, connection, and purpose. Guests didn’t just attend a fashion show—they witnessed a celebration of craftsmanship, where every piece told a story and every stitch represented time, talent, and heart.

From vibrant shawls to intricately crafted garments, the runway showcased the remarkable work of local makers. What made the experience even more powerful was that many of the models wore pieces they created themselves, turning the spotlight not just on fashion, but on the people behind it.

Behind the beauty of the event was something even more impactful: a shared commitment to community care. The evening served as a meaningful fundraiser, supporting neighbors facing temporary hardship through the Community Care Collaborative, a program that continues to make a difference across the Albemarle region.

The success of the event reflects what is possible when creativity is paired with compassion, and when a community shows up for one another.

Below is the official press release capturing the full details and impact of this special evening:

Contact: Bill Blake

Executive Director

Albemarle Area United Way

252-333-1510; director@albemarleareauw.org

Coastal Purl hosts inaugural Fashion Show to benefit Community Care Collaborative

program of AAUW

Elizabeth City, NC – On Saturday, May 16^th, over 130 people gathered at The Carolina Center (venue donated by Dream Hunt & Fishing) to attend a fashion show consisting of entirely handmade garments knitted and crocheted by local members of the Coastal Purl yarn shop community.

The atmosphere was first-class, like the release of a new fashion line by a world-renowned brand, yet it had the local flavor that only comes from something that’s wonderfully handmade. The event was the vision of Coastal Purl owner, Katherine Rogers. She wanted to showcase the amazing wearable works of art her customers had created since launching her shop in 2020 (the height of COVID). But she also wanted to benefit the community by raising funds to benefit the Community Care Collaborative, an impact program of the United Way that Katherine helped shape.

“We were thrilled to be the recipient of Katherine’s generosity. The CCC is extremely grateful for the $6,075 that was raised because of this wonderful event. Our hearts were warmed by the outpouring of love from the community who supported the Yarn Uniting Community event. These funds will benefit many of our neighbors,” exclaimed Bill Blake, Executive Director for the regional United Way.

Over 160 garments were modeled by 26 models, most of whom were wearing the items they had personally crafted. Many of the participants had been reluctant to model but exuded tremendous pride when reminded that they were showcasing their handiwork first and foremost.

Katherine acknowledged her heart-felt gratitude to her planning committee; “we couldn’t have pulled it off without their tireless enthusiasm and tremendous creativity. It was a fun event and really showcased the beautiful work they do. I’m so proud of this community!”

Albemarle Area United Way supports 34 certified partner agencies as well as their community impact program, the Community Care Collaborative (CCC) for folks experiencing temporary crisis. To donate visit aaunitedway.org or call 252-333-1510.

###

Albemarle Area United Way is a not-for-profit organization that mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. For more information on how you can give or to volunteer please call us at 252-333-1510 or visit our website at aaunitedway.org.

Explore, Learn, and Get Connected

The Yarn Uniting Community event is just one example of how neighbors come together to make a meaningful difference, but there’s so much more happening every day.

We invite you to explore the Albemarle Area United Way website to learn more about the programs and partnerships making an impact across our region, especially the Community Care Collaborative (CCC). This vital program provides support to individuals and families facing temporary challenges, helping ensure that no one in our community stands alone during difficult times.

👉 Discover how the Community Care Collaborative is changing lives, and how you can be part of that impact.