When do we, as an educated society, vocalize that we have reached a tipping point? When is that point crossed? America has been transformed over the last few years; we have seen newscast after newscast, station upon station, pushing a harsh narrative that has become a reality. The question becomes whether these outlets are offering a solution, or if they’re just giving us another reason to avoid watching the news. We live in a highly politicized and volatile era, which seeks to project a bleak future, and reminds us that the next generation will have to clean it up.

Sometimes, however, we are reminded that there is good in this world. A reminder that the youth of today are doing something to change the path of their future. Perhaps they too are tired of watching the news, or maybe they are seeking a greater purpose. It could be more selfish; simply that they seek to repair the shattered lives of the loved ones around them.

Whatever their driving force, I was heartened to see survivors, celebrities, and families affected by the opioid crisis come together to share their stories in a positive light. In spite of newscasts, and pharmaceutical cautions, these teens used New York Fashion Week to send a message. Supported by Supermodels Unlimited Magazine, these teens honored those in recovery and paid tribute to many lost to the disease of addiction. These motivated young women proudly stood together during National Recovery Month to say “We are Shatterproof!”. The runway show was billed as the The L.B.D. (Little Blue Dress) Movement; blue is the national color for addiction and opioid support. Joining these busy young women were noted celebrities and established models, looking to lend their help and voices for the cause.

These women are giving back to their communities and inspiring new generations to make healthy choices. Among these teens were industry veterans Isis King, from Netflix’s When They See Us, and Jeana Turner of America’s Next Top Model (ANTM). Joining them was reality TV star James Kennedy from Bravo-TV’s Vanderpump Rules. The evening’s host was former male model and ABC-TV’s Bachelor in Paradise star Jordan Kimball. Kimball is also credited with being on The Bachelorette. “What they’re doing cannot be applauded enough. Addiction affects everyone at some point in their life, whether it be a friend, family, or yourself. Shatterproof is working hard to aid in their recovery, save lives, and rebuild relationships.

Shatterproof is a blessing, and we owe it to them to show our support!” said Kimball during the event.
What most motivated me to write this article, was that these amazing young women do these charitable shows every six months or less. They do so with the help of donors, sponsors, and supporters such as: Supermodels Unlimited Magazine, Coca-Cola, Vita Coco and Jane Cosmetics. With these companies’ financial support and expertise, they are able to raise funds to help those in need. Last February they raised over $8,000.00 for The Trevor Project, and this month they raised $5,000.00 for Shatterproof, the benefiting charity of The L.B.D. event. The check was presented by non-other than Wesley Stromberg from Emblem3, who is an avid supporter of Shatterproof.

Shatterproof is a national nonprofit organization that focuses on reversing the course of addiction in America by advocating for changes to federal and state policies. Their important work is helping to transform addiction treatment programs nationwide, and ending the stigma associated with it. This is done by providing public education through family and workplace programs, while embracing community initiatives such as this amazing runway show.

“One in three Americans is impacted by addiction, and with stigma as the leading killer in our country, our young people especially need to feel supported in openly discussing this disease and seeking treatment,” said Gary Mendell, Founder and CEO of Shatterproof. “It is imperative that industries do their part to lead the conversation around this public health crisis, and we are grateful to Supermodels Unlimited Magazine and the fashion industry for using their platform to do so.”