Goodwill North Central Texas welcomed 410 attendees to Project Goodwill 2026 on April 16 at the Worthington Renaissance Hotel, raising more than $70,000 to support education, training and job placement programs for individuals facing barriers to employment across North Central Texas.
The annual fashion show and design competition featured 14 local designers who transformed $100 worth of thrifted materials into one-of-a-kind runway looks, blending sustainability with high fashion in support of Goodwill’s mission. The high-energy evening included a cocktail reception, silent auction and live runway show, culminating in the announcement of this year’s winning designers:
Taking first place was TY Washington, who captivated judges with “The Walking Storybook,” a bold design crafted from pages of two books and a bedsheet. The paper pantsuit transforms stories of Goodwill participants into a wearable expression of resilience and transformation, finished with a purse made from the original book covers. Washington, the 2025 Project Goodwill All-Stars winner, also earned this year’s Social Media Influencer Award.
Second place was awarded to Texas Christian University student Adelaide Lovett, whose design explored the concept of permanence through a thoughtful blend of structured and flowing elements. Using materials such as a suitcase, headboard, laundry hamper and 13 belts, Lovett created a sculptural piece that balanced strength and softness, inspired by both nature and ballet.
Third place went to Natalie Jaecks, who drew inspiration from geometry in nature, bold colors and unconventional materials. Her design incorporated silk poinsettias, a book, a shower curtain and bath mats to create a vibrant, eye-catching look. Jaecks also received the UnitedHealthcare Award, presented by the event’s presenting sponsor.
The People’s Choice Award was awarded to Trimble Technical High School student Yarelie Flores, whose 19th-century-inspired design with a modern twist captivated the audience. Her look featured an inventive mix of materials including pool noodles, puzzles, albums and butterfly planter picks.
“Project Goodwill continues to showcase the incredible talent in our community while highlighting the power of sustainability,” said Shay Gipson, Vice President of Community Engagement for Goodwill North Central Texas. “Every piece on the runway represents more than creativity, it represents opportunities for individuals in our programs to gain skills, find meaningful employment and build a path toward independence.”
Proceeds from Project Goodwill directly support Goodwill North Central Texas programs, which provide critical education, job training and career placement services across an 18-county region. The event was hosted by Anthony Elle, winner of Project Runway All Stars (Season 6) and HGTV’s Rock the Block, and featured a distinguished panel of judges from the fashion, entertainment and academic communities.
To view photos, watch the runway show and learn more, visit: www.goodwillnorthcentraltexas.org/project-goodwill
About Goodwill North Central Texas Goodwill is more than a thrift store. The largest employer of people with disabilities in the world, Goodwill provides education, training and job placement and believes that it’s worth celebrating! Goodwill North Central Texas is based in Fort Worth and serves 18 counties in the region. The nonprofit’s 27 area retail locations provide revenue through the sale of donated goods to support Goodwill’s mission to CREATE lives of independence and BUILD a stronger local community. Education, training and job placement programs for individuals with disabilities, the formerly incarcerated, at-risk youth, our veterans and people experiencing homelessness are guided by the organization’s vision of a North Central Texas where every person has the opportunity for maximum independence and abundant living. For more information, please visit www.GoodwillNorthCentralTexas.org.
