Amanda LaHue, 23, of Whitehall got her first tattoo at the age of 18 while studying at Millersville University.

It was five hearts on her hip to signify her and her siblings. Many more have followed since then.

Now those tattoos have brought LaHue together with a group of other modified women for a greater purpose.

LaHue joined the Tri-State chapter of The Modified Dolls in September. The group holds fundraising events to benefit various charities with a local focus.

"It's a great way for the community to rally for a cause," said LaHue.

She was inspired to join the group for two reasons. She knows several people affected by cancer and heart disease and would like to do anything she can to help groups that support people affected by those issues.

She would also like to improve the public image of modified women.

"There is a huge bias against people who are tattooed," said LaHue.

A goal of the group is to shatter those negative images that some people hold regarding women with tattoos. The group's Facebook page states, "We seek to demolish stereotypes and open minds to what a modified woman is and should be."

Having a positive influence on the community is how The Modified Dolls try to change how modified women are viewed.

Last June the group held an art auction at Volpe's in Emmaus that raised approximately $800 for Lehigh Valley Breast Health Services.

They also raised money by offering face painting and selling crafts at the recent Fest-O'-Fall in Catasauqua and a tattoo event at Critical Acclaim held earlier this month.

Although LaHue is thrilled to participate in any events that support the community, she has a special place in her heart for charities that focus on childhood cancer.

The group had a Five Guys Burgers and Fries fundraiser Oct. 29-31 to benefit the sCare Foundation which helps at-risk youth and teens. Participating locations include 914 Airport Drive, Allentown; 4025 Tilghman St., Allentown; and 3770 Dryland Way, Easton. Participants visited www.facebook.com/fiveguysburgers to print out the promotional flyer so The Modified Dolls would get credit for the purchase.

A Yankee Candle sale will also be held in November. Watch the group's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/tristatemodifieddolls for details.

In December the group will hold a 'princess for a day' makeover at Sweet and Sassy but the exact date has not yet been set. There will also be a princess ball (for youths) on Dec. 22 at the Macungie Institute.

Lastly, on April 20, 2013, they are holding a tattoo pageant called Ms. Modified Lehigh Valley. It will be at Sugar's Stage and Spirits in Bath. Anyone interested in being a vendor or a contestant may send an email to tristatedolls@yahoo.com.

LaHue is excited to be a part of a group that has a positive impact on the community and celebrates modified women. LaHue believes the stereotypes are outdated. "Now it's a form of expression; it's art," she said. "Your body is a canvas. Decorate it."