HOOVER – Hoover police officers and firefighters are heroes every day, fighting crime and responding to emergency calls, but on Thursday, Sept. 13, they helped the community in a different way.

First responders modeled the latest fashions from Von Maur as part of a fundraiser held by the Riverchase Women’s Club to benefit Wings of Hope.

Lynne Cooper and Mindy Estep with the Women’s Club said the organization typically holds a fashion show that serves as a kickoff after summer.

“We had the idea of doing it with first responders, and it took off from there,” Estep said.

There were four themed baskets for which attendees could purchase raffle tickets, with all proceeds benefiting Wings of Hope because the items were donated.

Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis suggested Wings of Hope when contacted about his department participating in the fundraiser.

Derzis said he and HPD have sponsored other efforts to benefit Wings of Hope, such as No Shave November, and he thought the fashion show was an opportunity for officers to interact with the public in a fun environment.

“It shows that officers and firefighters are human just like anybody else and they can let their hair down and have fun just like anyone else, and that’s what we’re going to do tonight,” Derzis said.

Hoover Fire Department Chief Clay Bentley said his department wanted to support the cause because of the support they have received from Derzis and Hoover police.

Modeling clothing along with Bentley and others were Officer Matthew Bond and K9 Fancy, who was dressed as Wonder Woman.

“I was happy to do it because it was for a good cause,” Bond said. “She loves people, so I have no doubt she will enjoy people trying to pet her and stuff like that.”

Officer Brian Hale said he was willing to participate in a fashion show because of who it would benefit.

“As soon as [Derzis] said it was for these children and their families, I said yes,” Hale said. “It was a no-brainer.”

Women’s Club members said they were thankful for the first responders helping with a successful fundraiser.

“We love working with the community, and we love Hoover,” Cooper said. “It was just a win-win situation all the way around.”