Mission Neahlis seeks to help Southside's Shenelle Richards

Last year, local fashion designer Lisa 'Neahlis' McIntosh decided to start Mission Neahlis to raise funds and give back to those in need.

This year, the funds are for prospective Paralympian Shenelle Richards.

Neahlis was introduced to the teenager and was instantly captivated by the warmth of her smile.

Richards, who has to use a wheelchair to get around, dreams of throwing the shot put in the Paralympics and Neahlis is on a mission to make this dream a reality.

The Valencia C Room at the Spanish Court Hotel was transformed into a chic cocktail reception area, as Neahlis feted Richards.

Adding star power to the event, actress Vivica A. Fox came out to show her support for the charity.

However, her role was twofold, as she also launched her book Every Day I'm Hustling'.

GUEST OF HONOUR

After Neahlis' arrival, the guest of honour, Richards, entered. When she smiled, all you saw was beauty and not someone with a disability.

Pastor Carrington Morgan of City Life Ministries told the audience more about Richards and her aspirations, which only endeared her to them even more.

Fox also gave brief but encouraging words and her dear friend, fellow actress Sheryl Lee Ralph made an appearance to support her friend whom she called newly 'Jamerican'.

Guests got their personal copies of Every Dy I'm Hustling signed by the gracious author, while also making pledges to help Richards in kind or cash.