Are you a girl in third through seventh grade that wants to model?

Mary-Brent Brown, the SSA freshman founder of non-profit organization Kids Wanna Help, said that models are needed for the 2009 Fashion Show Fundraiser that will benefit the JL Foundation.

The JL Foundation is named for leukemia victim Jennifer Leslie and is dedicated to helping leukemia patients and their families with expenses not covered by insurance. Thus far, the Kids Wanna Help organization headed by young philanthropic entrepreneur Brown has been their largest contributor, donating $25,000 over the past two years. Some of the expenses the JL Foundation helps with are transportation, food and lodging for the family while the patient is in the hospital.

Brown and her sister Beverly began the fashion show in 2007 and also operate the Lemonade Brigade, a non-profit organization, during the summer. Their mother Stacy, an attorney, assisted in getting the paperwork to register the organization with the IRS. As a result, donations are tax-deductible using IRS guidelines.

The workshop for the fashion show will be held next Saturday at Tchefuncte Country Club from 9:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. At this time, participants will be taught modeling skills and topics will include modesty is fashionable; health, fitness and beauty; etiquette for the modern girl; approaching life with confidence; choosing the colors that look best on you; and social responsibility — the importance of giving back to your community.

Brown stresses that the theme of the fashion show is “To be beautiful, you have to be yourself.” The show is designed to help encourage self-esteem and confidence in the models as well as fostering a lifetime of social responsibility.

Brown says this is also a way to meet new friends, have fun and raise money for a good cause.

No prior experience is necessary to participate; the workshop will teach girls everything they need to know. Space is limited to 35 girls. The $85 fee covers the workshop, lunch, a T-shirt, a trophy and an underwriting contribution to pay for the stage.

The show and luncheon will take place Oct. 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Tchefuncte Country Club.

For more information on participating in the show, buying tickets or donating to Kids Wanna Help, call 875-0407.