A fashion show fundraiser to support foster children with disabilities

MAPLE GROVE, Minn — When you think of a fashion show, you probably think of people’s looks. But in the northwest metro comes an all-glam and full-hearted fashion show.

Zoey Wangerin is a professional model. She is also an expert in the art of optimism. She was pleasantly surprised when WCCO sat down to chat with her.

“I’m excited! I’m so excited! Yes, I’m ready, I’m ready for this!” Wangrin said.

Zoe was adopted from China. Her sisters were taken from Ukraine. All are disabled.

Zoe has a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. She also has a thriving career. She has also shot commercials for Target, Mall of America and toy companies.

That’s where Ms. Denisha, a modeling and modeling coach, comes in.

“When I first met Zoe… ‘Can we have a play date?’ Like, I’m going to take her home as soon as I’m done with camp,” said Ms. Denisha, as she’s called by her students. “I’m here sponsored by the American Legion in Maple Grove. I sent them a proposal and they sponsored her, so she was able to come to my program.”

It was Zoe’s zest that prompted Ms Denisha to stage a fashion show next weekend to raise money for foster and adopted children with disabilities.

“What it means to start doing what you love in the modeling industry and how it means to give back to the community was the main goal for them. Because I believe that being beautiful is never enough. You know, knowing how to do it and dressing well is never enough. Give something back, we’ll do it.” Let people know we’re more than that, we’re just a pretty face.

And so Zoe is setting out to shape what life is really about.

“I definitely feel like she’s living her dream and I want to help her continue,” Ms. Denisia said. “Her future is so bright!”

You can watch Zoey hit the runway at the Maple Grove-Osseo American Legion this Saturday at 7 p.m.

You can sponsor a foster or foster child to get modeling lessons to help build their confidence.