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PLAINS TWP. — Saturday’s fashion show at the Wilkes-Barre Area Career and Technical Center wasn’t your typical fashion show.
Some of the models came down the runway in wheelchairs, some used a string to guide them down and others navigated on their own.
It didn’t seem to matter, however, how the models made their way down the catwalk. All the participants were greeted with applause and big smiles from the audience.
The models were members of the Greater Wilkes-Barre Association for the Blind’s InSight Kids Club. The event was being held by the association, Luzerne County Intermediate Unit 18, Community Services for Sight and CTC.
“Clap your hands until they hurt,” emcee Chris Tabakin told the audience, reminding attendees that while the models’ sight may be limited, their hearing certainly is not.
The event was the brainchild of Pittston Area High School junior Cassandra Thomas, who also attends the center. It provided the opportunity for more than 20 blind and visually impaired children to enjoy a day as models and all the glitz and glamour that goes with it.
“It’s a chance to remind people that a disability doesn’t define you,” Thomas said.
Amy Feldman, director of development for the Association for the Blind, said the event was part of a scheduled monthly activity for the club.
Not only did models don beautiful clothing, they also arrived early to have their makeup carefully applied. Students from the center’s cosmetology program volunteered their expertise and time to make the models look their best.
Students from the school also readied the area for a parent expo that took place before the fashion show, Feldman said.
Dana Moore, teacher for the visually impaired at Luzerne Intermediate Unit 18, said she was overwhelmed with support the effort had received from the community.
“The available ongoing support is overwhelming,” she said.
Sara Peperno, president of the Association for the Blind, said the organization assists those with various degrees of visual impairment.
“From those who simply have reduced vision to those who are completely blind, if you think you might be eligible for services, contact us,” she said. “And we can determine if you are.”
Upcoming for December, Feldman said, the InSight Kids Club will go to a Broadway play.
“It’s more than simply an opportunity to have fun,” she said. “It’s a chance to learn how to successfully navigate the city.”
