By Tanya Buresh-Werby, Assistant Director, FCVA
Friendship Circle of Virginia (FCVA) is excited to announce its upcoming Disability and Adaptive Fashion Show, set to take place on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 3 p.m. at the Virginia Repertory Theater Ballroom.
This inclusive event, held in partnership with the VCUArts Department of Fashion Design + Merchandising, will feature adaptive fashions designed for people of all ages and various disabilities.
The show will spotlight local and national clothing companies, models, and artists, celebrating creativity, diversity, and the innovative designs that make fashion accessible for everyone with such adaptations as magnetic closures, sensory friendly clothing, and clothing with modest port access for cancer or other treatments.
This event seeks to inspire and promote inclusivity in the fashion industry.
Radio host Jeff Katz will emcee the event, bringing his energy and enthusiasm to this empowering afternoon.
Jeff Katz was a former police officer before entering the world of professional speaking. He has recently been appointed to the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities by Governor Youngkin.
Jeff is a Zig Ziglar Legacy Certified Coach, certified DISC Profile Analyst, and professional speaker. Jeff’s background uniquely positions him to help first responders, families with members with disabilities, and those who would like to enhance their communication skills.
“Friendship Circle has given these fortunate friends with disabilities a chance to strut their stuff. What an amazing boost to their morale,” said Susan Adolf, one of the dedicated planners of the event.
The fashion show has been thoughtfully planned by a committee of local women, headed by Friendship Circle Board President, Helen Griffin. Committee members include Anne Marie Perel, Celia Neff, Claudia Biegler, Kathi Walton, Lilya Korenman, Susan Adolf, and Sarah Allen.
“Friendship Circle is a remarkable organization. Highlighting children’s fashion is an exciting and creative way to educate others about children with disabilities,” said Claudia Biegler, emphasizing the impact of the event on raising awareness.
“Working with the Friendship Circle of Virginia is an honor and we are excited to be a part of an event featuring adaptive fashion,” said Deidra W. Arrington, MBA, Chair and Associate Professor, VCU School of the Arts Department of Fashion Design + Merchandising, underscoring VCU’s commitment to this collaboration.
Guests are invited to enjoy a dessert reception, providing an opportunity to connect, reflect, and engage in discussions about the importance of inclusivity in fashion while enjoying the show.
For Mrs. Sanchez, who will be traveling to the show from Florida, the show is especially meaningful as her daughter, Jaylani, will be participating: “The fashion show is important to me because it allows me to show who my daughter, Jaylani, is as she faces challenges with her medical needs. She always states her disability is her ability to create. It will allow her to show the world that people with disabilities can be stylish and confident just like any other kid at the water park or at the pool. She will be able to wear a swimsuit with so much confidence.
It will allow her to feel valued and a regular kid. She wants to be able to give kids like her the opportunity to wear her swimwear with confidence and the ability to create with passion. Her voice is what every child like her needs.”
Join FCVA for an afternoon of empowerment, where style meets function and fashion becomes a vehicle for self-expression. Mark your calendars for this inspiring event! Attendees can sign up to attend the show at fcva.org.
Additionally, FCVA reminds everyone about the 4th Annual Walk n Roll and Friendship Fair will be on Sunday, November 10, from 1-3 p.m. at Fountain Lake in Byrd Park. Participants of all abilities can walk, roll, scooter, or skate around the 1-mile loop. Bring your friends, family, and neighbors—everyone is welcome to share in the fun! FCVAWalkNRoll.org.
