A model steps into the spotlight and confidently walks the runway. This is their moment. Training, preparation, styling—classic fashion show precursors—but one thing is different. The models here are blind or visually impaired. This is the Vision Resource Center’s second annual fashion show for the blind and visually impaired. In a world often void of accommodations, Vision Resource Center is rolling out the red carpet to support independence and essential services for the visually impaired in Cumberland County. In the process, models find support and empowerment, blossoming to their greatest potential.
Vision Resource Center, which began in 1939 as the Cumberland County Association of the Blind, serves the special needs population of Cumberland County by providing a centralized place for education, vocational training, civic engagement, health programs, and recreational activities. They seek to address the social, economic, and vocational isolation that many visually impaired individuals face by offering accessible, comprehensive services in one place. They are one of the first four agencies of the United Way of Cumberland County and operate in conjunction with the Cumberland County Department of Social Services.
Last year, their inaugural fashion show, Blind to Boundaries: Eyes Closed, Style Open, was initiated by VRC member D. Wayne Gille, supported by volunteer Patty Nusbaum, Katherine Gill, and Shona Philips. The show sold out.
This year, a new theme is taking shape, inspired by springtime.
“After seeing the confidence and creativity that emerged during the 2025 debut, we felt drawn to a theme that celebrates personal growth, resilience, and the inner strength within our visually impaired community,” said Maureen Pacheco, community outreach and engagement specialist for Vision Resource Center. “The theme Full Bloom: Cultivating Confidence was inspired by the beginning of spring, a time when everything starts to open up, grow, and reveal new possibilities. That sense of renewal felt like the perfect reflection of what we want this show to represent.”
Pacheco says that behind the scenes, the concept developed through conversations exploring what confidence looks like for each individual.
“We were inspired by the life of a flower, from seed to bloom, and how that journey mirrors our own paths toward self-assurance,” she explained. “This imagery shaped our styling choices, visual design, and the atmosphere we set out to create. Our goal was for every model to feel supported and empowered to step into their own full bloom, much like the world coming alive at the start of spring.”
She shared two models’ stories that exemplify what this theme means on a personal level. Latasha Smith, who lost her sight nearly a decade ago due to a surgical complication, has chosen not to let the challenge define her. Instead, she has embraced joy, music, dance, and living fully.
“For Latasha, participating in the fashion show is a celebration of that resilience. When she steps onto the runway, she isn’t defined by her blindness. The event allows her to showcase her personality and strength, reminding herself and everyone watching that life doesn’t stop after loss,” shared Pacheco.
The second model, Tina Jacobs, is a proud Native American. She works as a childcare director, living with low vision due to diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma.
Pacheco explained, “Tina sees the show as a platform to share her journey, advocate for inclusion, and demonstrate that her abilities and leadership extend far beyond her visual impairment.”
The fashion show changes its participants in lasting ways. Pacheco says that last year, they saw powerful shifts in the way models carried themselves once they were styled, supported and guided onto the runway.
“Their posture changed, their presence strengthened, and the way they expressed themselves radiated a new sense of pride,” she said. “Even after the event, many shared how their self-esteem had grown and how empowering the experience was.”
In addition to the show’s impact on models, Pacheco says they learned a lot from the wider community’s response. The 2025 show was held in a small venue and Pacheco says the turnout exceeded all expectations, an outcome she calls “remarkable.” This year, they’ve expanded both their venue and volunteer team, making it possible to “welcome everyone who wants to enjoy the show with us,“ according to Pacheco.
When community members attend, Pacheco says they leave with a deeper appreciation for the talent, creativity and confidence within the visually impaired community.
“Many people may not realize the range of abilities our models have or the incredible things they are capable of. This show is a chance to see them not defined by their disability, but by their courage, self-expression, and artistry,” she explained. “We want attendees to understand that the visually impaired community is fully present, active, and part of the same community they live in. They are capable of wonderful and beautiful things, and this event is a celebration of that.”
Attend Full Bloom: Cultivating Confidence, Saturday, March 21, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at 614 Oakridge Ave. Tickets start at $26 and can be purchased online at visionresourcecentercc.org