Cowtown Catwalk: Fort Worth Community Collaborative Turns Donated Fashion Into Community Support

Local nonprofit turns secondhand fashion into a runway fundraiser addressing clothing waste and community needs. 

[FORT WORTH, TEXAS, JUNE 4, 2026]- The Fort Worth Community Collaborative (FWCC) will spotlight sustainable style at “Cowtown Catwalk,” a fashion show fundraiser on July 11 at All Peoples Unitarian Universalist Church. 

Since its founding in 2022, the Fort Worth Community Collaborative has focused on a simple mission: connecting communities with clothing. As global clothing production has surged—up more than 400% since the early 2000s—FWCC’s founders saw firsthand how many families still struggle to afford everyday essentials. Through monthly pop‑ups, the organization distributed donated clothing at no cost, ensuring anyone could shop with dignity regardless of income. 

As the program expanded, volunteers began noticing a surprising trend: many donations included luxury labels and like‑new pieces that had been worn only a handful of times. Despite the popularity of thrifting, consumers continue to buy new garments at a rapid pace, contributing to a growing waste crisis. Environmental sources such as Earth.org estimate that of the 100 billion garments produced annually, 92 million tons end up in landfills. 

Executive Director Dorie Kirk hopes the fashion show will spark conversations about overconsumption while showcasing the quality of items FWCC receives. “Every garment on this runway represents two victories: less clothing in a landfill and more resources available for a neighbor in need. Cowtown Catwalk shows that fashion can be both sustainable and deeply community-focused”, she said. Dorie will use her past talents in production to curate secondhand and upcycled finds mixing looks with overt statements on current affairs and the importance of mutual aid! 

Although FWCC began with clothing, the evolving needs of the 76116 community quickly broadened its mission. Today, the organization’s small storefront on Camp Bowie Boulevard West provides not only clothing but also food, hygiene kits, diapers, pet supplies, and other essentials.  “Though our mission began in one place and has expanded into many more, our hearts have stayed the same- within our community. We actively listen to the changing needs of our neighbors and make it our duty to meet them as best we can,” Kiama Cavazos, FWCC’s Program Director, added. 

To learn more about FWCC and support its work, mark your calendar for July 11 and plan to attend the fashion show. Guests will have the opportunity to purchase the outfits modeled on the runway and participate in additional fundraising activities throughout the event.