Shoe Carnival and Vanderburgh County CASA are forming a new partnership based on a mutual desire to help abused and neglected kids in our community. The organizations are teaming up to raise money in the first ever “Walk the Runway” benefiting the County's Court Appointed Special Advocate program.

The public is invited to take part in “Walk the Runway” on Friday, August 3 at Casino Aztar at 6:00pm. Guests will enjoy cocktails, hors d' oeuvres, prizes and a runway show featuring the latest back-to-school and fall fashion footwear trends.

CASA's Executive Director, Suzanne Draper, says, “We are honored to have an outstanding company such as Shoe Carnival assist in our mission, which is to advocate for abused and neglected children in the court system.” In 2011, CASA received 640 new cases and CASA volunteers provided over 15,000 hours of service. In 2012, 159 cases have been referred to CASA. Right now, nearly 300 children are waiting for a volunteer to be their voice. Draper says, “The need is critical for donations and volunteers. Shoe Carnival's generosity will certainly help us save lives.”

As the presenting Sponsor, Shoe Carnival has committed thousands of dollars in donations, volunteer hours and creative services to make “Walk the Runway” a success. Shoe Carnival President and CEO, Mark Lemond, says “Our mission at Shoe Carnival is to reach out to the families and children in our community.”

Other community sponsors include Berry Plastics, Ziemer Stayman Weitzel & Shoulders, LLP, Tri-State Orthopaedics, D Patrick, Koch Enterprises, Inc., St. Mary's Medical Center, The Hollander Group at Hilliard Lyons, Vectren Corporation, Fifth Third Bank, United Companies and Summit Real Estate just to name a few.