Project Runway Winner Supports Kakapo in US Fundraiser

MEDIA RELEASE

DATE: 02 OCTOBER 2012

Project Runway Winner Supports Kakapo in US Fundraiser

Jay McCarroll, the winner of the inaugural series of Project Runway has designed a kakapo-influenced outfit that will feature throughout October as part of a unique fundraising campaign for endangered species in the United States.

New York-based animal activist, model and Cornell University veterinary student Gabby Wild is the driving force behind the 12 in 12 for 12 campaign which has her wearing one animal-inspired outfit for an entire month throughout 2012.
Ms Wild has so far featured in several high-profile publications and events, including the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.

October is the turn for kakapo, one of the 12 species she is seeking to raise the profile of and fundraise for, throughout the year.

Kakapo Recovery advocacy ranger Karen Arnold said the novel campaign had the potential to reach a new and potentially large audience in the United States.
“We have been liaising with Gabby for more than a year now and her absolute drive and commitment to highlight the plight of kakapo and other endangered species, is truly inspiring.
“Then to have someone like Jay McCarroll come on board and lend his support makes this opportunity to spread the Kakapo Recovery message even more thrilling for the kakapo team.”

The kakapo outfit is the only clothing Ms Wild will wear during October as she promotes the cause. She has set up a registered charitable foundation in the United States which means people who donate to kakapo will receive tax benefits on their donations.

ENDS

For more information visit
http://www.kakaporecovery.org.nz
Conservation in partnership:
DOC’s kākāpō recovery work is actively supported by a partnership involving New Zealand Aluminium Smelters Limited and Forest & Bird.

First signed 22 years ago, the agreement is DOC’s longest running conservation partnership and has already injected $4million towards breeding programmes, predator proof sanctuaries and innovative research for the flightless parrot.

Its long term kākāpō recovery goal is to have 150 females at three separate sites, one of which is self-sustaining.

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