For a unique twist on recycling, head to the Trashion Fashion Avant Garb Show, an event where participants walk the runway in one-of-a-kind creations. The event will be held on Saturday, April 20, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Switchboard Studios & Gallery, 40 N. Third St., second floor, Columbia.

"This event is a fashion show where all entries are created by hand from items that are recycled, repurposed or reused with the emphasis on using items that might end up in the trash," explained Kim Morrow, event coordinator.

This is the third year for the show, which is hosted by Columbia Creative Factory, Columbia Movers and Shakers Society and KiMorroWorks. Beginning at 6 p.m., contestants will show off their creations to a panel of judges who will decide the winners in three age categories - age 10 and under, ages 11 to 17 and age 18 and above. The winners in each category will receive a handmade recycled crown and a $25 gift certificate to a local restaurant.

Morrow noted that you never know what you might see on the runway. "Creations have been made out of plastic bottles, plastic caps of all sorts, cardboard, Pokemon cards, furniture packing material, envelopes from posted mail, burlap sacks, greeting cards, paper, chicken wire, Masonite," she said.

Along with providing an evening of entertainment, the Trashion Fashion Avant Garb Show is a benefit for local organizations. "The past two years, we have been able to make a $400 donation per year to the Columbia Boys and Girls Club," Morrow said. "This year, we will be making a donation to The Edible Classroom, which teaches sustainability and the value of free food to our children." Sponsors and ticket sales help make a donation possible, she stated.

"Be a community supporter of our children and have an evening of fun in the process," Morrow said. "The event is about having fun and supporting the creators, so please support them by coming to the event."

Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. Tickets will be sold at the door; there is no charge for teens and children under age 16. For more information on the event, search for "Trashion Fashion Avant Garb" on Facebook.