Ann Waris, Anne Mills, Sue Hartemayer

Chicago’s fashionable and philanthropic set will descend upon the Palmer House Hilton Hotel Chicago’s Grand Ballroom on Friday, March 4, for one of the area’s most highly anticipated springtime events: The 27^th Annual Women’s Auxiliary Misericordia Fashion Show.

“The Spring Fashion Show serves two purposes,” explains Sue Hartemayer, Women’s Auxiliary President and Winnetka resident. “The first is to fund Misericordia’s wide range of programs and services, and the second is to introduce Misericordia to those who may not be aware of this amazing Chicago treasure.”

But many would argue that a Chicago legacy like Misericordia needs no introduction. Serving children and adults with mild to profound developmental disabilities since 1921, Misericordia Heart of Mercy provides a place to call home for more than 600 individuals. They offer a continuum of care, allowing for each resident to live as independently as possible. Around 20 percent of the residents are from low-income families, or have no family involvement, making them wards of the state. Misericordia opens its collective doors, arms, and hearts to the area’s most vulnerable citizens, encouraging them to lead meaningful and productive lives.

Within the campus is a restaurant, gift shop, bakery, and thrift shop, none of which would be functional without the efforts of Misericordia residents and volunteers. But it takes supportive events like the Women’s Auxiliary Spring Fashion Show to help fund innovative programs, which include job training and placement, fitness and health guidance, and social and recreational activities, all making Misericordia the nationally-recognized program that it is.

The estimated crowd of more than 850 will enjoy a luncheon, followed by a faced-paced, runway-style fashion show sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue. Fashions from Saks’ WEAR department will include spring trends for career and weekend, with a peek from their Evening and Contemporary departments. Supporters will also be treated to a performance by The Heartbreakers, a group of residents who perform a live song and dance number. “The Heartbreakers give a warm and engaging performance that brings a tear to your eye,” says Hartemayer with a smile. “Let’s just say they are aptly named.”

Individual tickets for the Misericordia Women’s Auxiliary Spring Fashion Show are $150. Tables of 10 near the runway are $3,500, and tables off-runway are $2,500. Seats can be reserved at events.org/mwafashion, or by calling the Misericordia hotline at 773-273-2756.