Ashley & Cecil Vorce
Vorce Pros LLC

Hello! We’re Ashley & Cecil Vorce, one of the first families that Choose Joy Foundation ever supported back in 2018. I can’t tell you how much it meant to have Christmas gifts brought to my children from Choose Joy in a time our family needed it most. Feeling like you can still give your kids the world while in active recovery is only possible with support from incredible people like Joy, who gave us hope in a fragile time.

Since then, my wife Ashley and I have supported Choose Joy Foundation and jump on every volunteering opportunity we can to give families the same love, hope, and support that Joy gave us. With the funds raised at Catwalk for a Cause last year, Choose Joy Foundation fully furnished four recovery homes for moms and their children in Redmond. We were just two of an incredible group of people that turned these houses into homes, and gave families the support they needed to get back on their feet.

We are honored to walk the Catwalk and share our story of hope, and of course Joy, Choose Joy Foundation gives to our community. We are proud to say we just started our own company, Vorce Pros LLC, and will continue to support this community the way Choose Joy Foundation supported us!

Cash McConnell
Mercedes-Benz of Bend

Hello there! I’m Cash McConnell, a Sales Associate at Kendall Mercedes-Benz of Bend. It’s a privilege to participate in Kendall’s Catwalk for a Cause benefiting the Choose Joy Foundation for the second consecutive year. I am proud to represent Kendall among our incredible group of models, although I would not be able to do this without the support of our entire Kendall team.

What I love most about my job at Kendall is connecting with customers. Every day brings new experiences, allowing me to meet amazing individuals and assist them in finding their ideal vehicle. Originally from Sisters, I adore living in Central Oregon, surrounded by the beauty of our home and nature. I can’t wait to see you at the Catwalk event on May 11th, where I’ll likely be sporting a sparkling blazer! My aim is to surpass last year’s fundraising efforts, with a personal goal of raising at least $3500 for the Choose Joy Foundation. I appreciate all the support, see you on the Catwalk!

Lilly Byrd
The Phoenix

Hey there, I’m Lilly Byrd, and I’m thrilled to be part of the Kendall Catwalk for a Cause event! With over 30 years of presence in Bend, I’m eager to give back to our community, especially to children in need of a brighter future. As a Cocktail Server at Phoenix Restaurant and Marketing Specialist at Country Financial, my favorite part of my job is connecting with new customers and fostering relationships within our local community.

Outside of work, you’ll often find me enjoying the outdoors, whether I’m on the golf course or spending time with friends, soaking up all the fun activities Central Oregon has to offer! I’m fully committed to raising at least $2,500 for the Choose Joy Foundation as a Catwalk for a Cause model. Winning the Top Role Model Award would be the icing on the cake, but the real reward lies in making a positive impact on the lives of children in need. With your support, let’s make a difference together!

Chuck Norton
CKN Services LLC

Hey there, I’m Chuck Norton, and I’m thrilled to be part of Catwalk for a Cause! When asked to join, I didn’t hesitate for a second – my response was a resounding “Let’s go!” I have been involved in an event similar to this in the past and am thrilled to do it again for a well-deserving nonprofit, Choose Joy Foundation!

I started my own company, CKN Services LLC, around three years ago because I was getting so many requests for handyman work around town! After saying yes to so many friends and being the “go-to guy”, I decided it was time to start my own thing. The best part of my job is helping people! Through my work at CKN, I get to meet a lot of incredible people, work with other businesses in town, and have heard I am a great communicator in this industry.

Outside of work, you’ll find me on the golf course whenever I can or shredding the backcountry on my snowboard. And let’s not forget my love for cooking – just ask my wife Sabrina, she’ll tell you I make a mean meal! I’m committed to raising at least $2500 for Catwalk because I know the difference it can make. Plus, there’s the added motivation of snagging that Top Role Model Award. Let’s make a difference together!

Brittany Barton
Garrison Group at Re/MAX Key Properties Oregon

Hello! I’m Brittany Barton, a Realtor at ReMAX Key Properties. My connection with Joy Christiansen, the founder of Choose Joy Foundation, dates back to when I taught her son in 4th grade. Our bond grew from there, leading to a friendship and now collaborating on a meaningful cause by participating in a charity Catwalk event!

As a realtor, I love being able to help people achieve their home-owning goals. Seeing the joy on people’s faces when they find that perfect home is priceless. I have met so many amazing people through this career and am excited to meet more incredible individuals through this Catwalk Fundraiser!

I have two amazing kiddos that I adore more than anything in the world. My son, Xander, is 11 and my daughter, Orion, is 6. I genuinely hit the jackpot with how incredibly smart, witty, and kind little humans they are turning out to be. We love spending time with friends and our family that we are fortunate enough to have here in Bend. Camping, fishing, swimming, playing all the sports (especially volleyball), dancing, and traveling are our favorite things we get to do together!

I am committed to raising $2500 for Choose Joy Foundation and look forward to walking the Catwalk on May 11th!

JT Ramsey & Rachelle Thomas
Mortgage Loan Origination Team / CMG Home Loans

Hey there, we’re JT Ramsey and Rachelle Thomas, your friendly neighborhood Loan Origination Team from Thomas Team at CMG Home Loans! So, how did we end up on the Catwalk? Well, blame it all on Natasha – she roped us into this delightful chaos. But truth be told, when we saw how much fun everyone had fundraising last year, we couldn’t resist getting in on the action!

As a loan origination team, our favorite part of the job is witnessing the sheer joy on people’s faces when they realize they’ve just bought a home. It’s a rewarding feeling knowing we’ve helped make someone’s dreams come true, even if they initially think it’s too good to be true!

Our family is a unique blend – with our two grown daughters out there conquering the world and our eldest blessing us with a lively grandson, we couldn’t be more grateful for the love we share. And speaking of sharing love, as Catwalk for a Cause models, we’re committed to raising at least $5,000 for the Choose Joy Foundation. Winning the Top Role Model Award would be the cherry on top, but the real prize is knowing we’re making a difference. Join us in spreading joy and making dreams a reality!

Alex Bass
St. Charles Medical Center

Hey there, I’m Alex Bass, a Medical Social Worker at St. Charles Medical Center. My journey with Catwalk began through a longstanding friendship with Joy, spanning almost 15 years. Having been involved with Choose Joy for some time and attending last year’s event, I was surprised and excited when asked to participate! Saying yes was an easy decision for me, fueled by my deep admiration for Choose Joy’s mission and Joy’s remarkable accomplishments.

As a Medical Social Worker, I find immense fulfillment in empowering individuals to better their lives, serving as a patient advocate and providing essential resources to navigate life’s toughest challenges. Beyond work, I cherish spending time with loved ones and indulging in crafting, crocheting, painting, and enjoying Central Oregon summers with live music and river floats. Committed to making a difference, I’ve pledged to raise at least $2,500 for the Choose Joy Foundation as a Catwalk for a Cause model, aiming to secure the coveted Top Role Model Award. Let’s spread joy and empowerment together!

Willow Neer
Dudas

Hey everyone, I’m Willow Neer, a passionate Bartender at Duda’s Billiards Bar, and I’m excited to share my journey as a model for the Kendall Catwalk for a Cause event! When Joy from the Choose Joy Foundation approached me, I couldn’t say no. It sounded like a fantastic opportunity to have fun while supporting an amazing cause. What matters most to me is making a difference, which is why I immediately agreed to join this fundraiser. Not only is it for a great cause, but it’s also an entirely new experience for me. As someone who loves exploring new things, being part of a large fundraiser and a catwalk event is something I’ve never done before, and I’m eager to dive in.

Outside of work, you’ll often find me pursuing my passions for sports like surfing, skateboarding, snowboarding, and coaching baseball for children in Central Oregon. I’m also deeply involved in volunteer work, and I’m excited to potentially expand into larger humanitarian projects like beach cleanups and disaster relief efforts. With your support, I’m committed to raising at least $2,500 for the Choose Joy Foundation and aiming to be the model that raises the most money to win the Top Role Model Award. Let’s make a meaningful impact together!

Kelsi Buchheit
Paychex, Inc.

Hello everyone! I’m Kelsi Buchheit, and I have to admit, when I was first asked to participate in this event, my initial thought was, “I’m not a model.” However, what truly drew me in was the meaningful mission of the Choose Joy Foundation and the positive impact we can make in the lives of children here in our community.

In my role at Paychex, Inc., I find immense satisfaction in assisting businesses in safeguarding their organization and employees. While the idea of walking the Catwalk makes me a bit nervous, I always remind myself that my worth isn’t defined by others’ opinions. I’m genuinely excited to take on the runway this year, and I’ve committed to raising at least $2500 for the Choose Joy Foundation with the support from our community! I must admit, I’m a bit competitive when it comes to supporting our community, especially knowing that a Top Model will be crowned at the Catwalk! So, please join me in reaching and hopefully surpassing my fundraising goal by donating below. Together, let’s make a significant impact for this wonderful cause!

Amy Campbell
Sunriver Realty

Hey there, I’m Amy Campbell, a Broker with Sunriver Realty, and I’m thrilled to be back for my second year as a model for the Kendall Catwalk for a Cause event! What brought me back is the chance to make a real difference in my community.

As a Broker, I love building lasting relationships with my clients and tackling new challenges every day. That same passion drives me to support causes like the Choose Joy Foundation, which spreads hope and support to children and families in need. My family is my greatest joy – I’m a proud mom of three amazing kids who constantly inspire me.

When I’m not working or with my family, you’ll often find me chasing sunsets and palm trees in new destinations! As a Catwalk for a Cause model, I’m committed to raising at least $2,500 for the Choose Joy Foundation and aiming to snag the Top Role Model Award. With your support, we can make a real impact together!

Sarah Lauderdale
Backyard Media

Hello! My name is Sarah Lauderdale, and I am the Senior Media Guide at Backyard Media (formerly Bend Radio Group). I attended the Catwalk event in 2023 in support of my coworker, Brian Mobley, and LOVED it! I am thrilled to get involved as a model this year, especially because anything to do with helping kids in the community has my heart.

There are so many things I love about my job, but the flexibility, creativity, and simple fact that I get to help so many businesses, big and small, grow and succeed is amazing. Plus, my co-workers turned family, are pretty awesome to be around too!

I’ve lived in Bend for almost 15 years now and have a chef husband and 3 kids – ages 18, 15, 12. We do our best to instill an adventurous spirit in our children and Central Oregon makes it easy! In general, anything that involves trying something new is totally my jam! Speaking of trying something new, I am thrilled to walk the Catwalk this year and am committed to fundraising at least $2500 for Choose Joy Foundation. I appreciate all your support!

Marcus Valdez
W Aesthetics

Hey there! My name is Marcus Valdez and I am the Director of Operations at W Aesthetics and Wellness. I had the opportunity to attend Catwalk for a Cause last year and when asked to be a model this year, my immediate response was “OF COURSE, I love what the Choose Joy Foundation does and I would be honored to be involved.” I have big shoes to fill, as our Owner and Expert Aesthetic Provider at W, Wendy Jacobson, took the award for Top Model at last year’s Catwalk!

At W Aesthetics & Wellness, I love my team and patients equally. I get to interact with some incredible people, and wear a lot of hats (no days are the same)! Regardless of what hat I’m wearing on any given day, I hope that people leave feeling better than they felt when they walked through the door.

Outside of work, I have the most supportive, dynamic, and amazing mix of my chosen family, and people who chose me. You can find me playing pickleball, riding my motorcycle, and exploring new places. That is if I’m not studying, as I am currently in school to become a nurse practitioner. You will also find me on the Catwalk this year; I appreciate any support to help me reach my pledge amount of $2500 to fund the resources and initiatives led by Choose Joy Foundation!

Shannon McNeil
Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s Real Estate

Hello! I’m Shannon McNeil, a Real Estate Professional at Sotheby’s International Realty. As a native of Bend, I have a lot of deep friendships and community ties in Central Oregon. My sweet friend, Joy,

gave me an opportunity to support her wonderful foundation to help children and families in Central Oregon, and how could I say no to that?

As a Real Estate Broker, I am so fortunate to help clients with what is often one of the largest investments they will make in their lives: buying and selling a home. It is so rewarding to help people obtain their dreams. Outside of work, being a mom is the most important role I’ve ever had. Teaching my son that he can do anything in the world all starts with me! Time with my family and wonderful friends fills my soul, I feel very fortunate and truly love my village!

If I could tell my 12-year-old self anything, I would say that not every choice is going to be the right one, but it’s the wrong choices that teach you the most. You are even going to learn a ton through the right choices, like becoming a model in Kendall’s Catwalk for a Cause! Yikes! I have pledged to raise $2500 on behalf of Choose Joy Foundation and appreciate any support to reach it!

Ethan Young-Smith
DJ & Mazama Designs

Hello! My name is Ethan Young-Smith, and I am thrilled to join the 2024 Catwalk for a Cause benefitting Choose Joy Foundation for the first time! I keep my schedule busy at my own company, Mazama Designs, where hydration and exploration collide, and DJ’ing around Bend. I am thrilled to be

involved in this year’s Catwalk for a Cause and said yes after being inspired by the impact Choose Joy Foundation has on our community.

I am excited to be a “role” model in our community because I never really had a specific one growing up. My family was always very supportive of what I wanted to do in my life, and I always found inspiration in certain activities. I hope I can inspire someone else, but I believe in a quote from the one and only, Matthew McConaughey, that says “Be your own hero.” In my eyes, that also means be your own inspiration. I have pledged to raise $2500 on behalf of Choose Joy Foundation and would love your support to reach that goal before I hit the Catwalk on May 11th! See you there!

MEET YOUR HOSTS

Lynsey Harris
Emcee!

Hi! I’m Lynsey Harris, a Sunrise Anchor at KTVZ Channel 21 and your emcee for this years’Kendall’s Catwalk for a Cause benefitting Choose Joy Foundation! When asked to host, it was an immediate “yes” for me. I mean, who wouldn’t jump at the chance to trade in their blazer for a sequined gown and a microphone? The opportunity to bring people together for a cause that’s dear to my heart aligns perfectly with my personal values and mission.

Beyond the news desk, you’ll find me at CycleBar, where I channel my energy into inspiring and motivating others through spin. As the CycleBar Lead Instructor, I’m passionate about helping people push past their limits, achieve their fitness goals, and find joy in the journey.

I’m honored to serve as the host of a charity event close to my heart. Together, we’ll join forces to raise funds for a cause that brings hope and support to families in need. It’s a privilege to guide you through this evening of generosity and compassion, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to make a real difference in our community. Cheers to that!

Molly Bull
Auctioneer

Molly May, Professional Benefit Auctioneer, graduated from Willamette University with honors, she is a graduate of the Worldwide College of Auctioneering, and a member of the National Auctioneers Association. She has years of experience as a corporate event planner, a marketing communications career with Microsoft and currently VP of marketing and communications for a global nonprofit.

Molly has a true passion for nonprofits and social justice, having dedicated decades of her professional career to mission-based organizations. A native Oregonian, Molly lives in beautiful Bend with her two daughters. She loves mountain views, the ocean, travel, music and dancing!

RETAIL PARTNERS

A huge thanks to all our partners helping put on this event.