By Mary O’KEEFE

Crescenta Valley is known for its volunteer spirit and generosity. That reputation comes from organizations and businesses alike. To start the New Year off, Crescenta Valley Weekly will begin a new series honoring those who help others.

The term “It takes a village” is practiced in Crescenta Valley. We support each other. And what better way to celebrate this attitude than by highlighting The Clothing Market in Montrose, a business that understands hyper-local. The owners Sebu and Maral Chatoyan support the community in many ways. They hire locally and are always willing to give to organizations and worthy projects.

“We love this community,” Sebu said.

Recently they held a fashion show at their store with proceeds going to Prom Plus, the organization that offers an alternative place for CV High School seniors and their guests to go after prom.

For almost two decades, Prom Plus has been offering an after prom party that gives kids an option of a safe, fun place to be from midnight to 5 a.m. after prom. The organization must raise at least $25,000 each year to support the event and depends on community members and local businesses to help in their efforts.

Sebu and Maral know how difficult it is for non-profits to raise funds and wanted to help Prom Plus.

The fashion show highlighted the designs of The Clothing Market. Maral is the designer and the clothing reflects her personality, blending classic style with absolute comfort. The clothing also represents the couple’s dedication to “support local” as all the clothes designed by Maral are made in America. And keeping with the community spirit that embodies The Clothing Market, the models were customers along with kids and adults from the Prom Plus organization.

“We didn’t want professional models,” Sebu said. “We wanted people who [actually] wear our clothing.”

Maral added that the clothing fits all body types and all ages.

The store was packed with supporters as models strutted their stuff on stage. The audience was supportive and enjoyed snacks that were provided. In the end, many of the attendees purchased items, which in turn helped Prom Plus.

The Clothing Market continues to be a business that supports its community and the foundation of giving is carried on by the couple’s children who were on hand at the event to help.

The Clothing Market is located at 2260 Honolulu Ave. in the Montrose Shopping Park.