Sixty models walked the runway this weekend as a part of Mesa and Chandler’s Adaptive Recreation programs.
Adaptive Recreation holds social classes, field trips and events for people with disabilities aged 6 and up. The fashion show has been a tradition between the Chandler and Mesa programs in one way or another for over 20 years.
Chandler's Adaptive Recreation program coordinator Erika Hanson says the event is the culmination of six weeks of rehearsal.
“So each participant came to what’s called a workshop. Every workshop we were practicing their runway struts, we were teaching them how to be confident, we were working on how to compliment each other as friends,” Hanson said.
Megan Sylvester has walked in the show for 18 years.
“I just got done with my hair and makeup, it’s my favorite thing to do for the fashion show," Sylvester said backstage while wearing a black and gold dress for this year’s Old Hollywood inspired “Golden Gala” theme.
Nina Strobel, Mesa's Adaptive Recreation coordinator, said the event provides an opportunity for people within her programs to take the spotlight.
"With our special interest classes, it is where we are able to do the fashion show workshops." Strobel said.
"So individuals who are wanting to build their confidence and be independent and just have that spark about them to learn how to pose and walk and just really build their confidence and showcase who they are as an individual."
The event also featured a silent auction and raffle, with all proceeds going to fund more Adaptive Recreation events.
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