Introduction
On October 10, 2024, the Knowlton in Bridgeport came alive with fashion, music, and community spirit as it hosted the Rise & Bloom fashion show. This special event marked the 40th anniversary of Family Reentry, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by behavioral health challenges, domestic violence, reentry, and recidivism. Attendees were treated to a unique blend of art and advocacy, all aimed at raising awareness for Family Reentry’s mission and celebrating its four decades of impact in Bridgeport.

Event Details
The Rise & Bloom fashion show took place at the Knowlton on Thursday, October 10, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Known for its welcoming ambiance and commitment to community events, the Knowlton provided a vibrant backdrop for the evening’s festivities. With an inspiring lineup of speakers, a live musical performance, and a stunning fashion showcase, the event was a fitting tribute to Family Reentry’s ongoing commitment to positive change.

This sold-out event attracted over 200 guests from across Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, underscoring the widespread support for Family Reentry's mission. Among the distinguished attendees were Mayor Joe Ganim, Senator Herron Keyon Gaston, and City Councilman Fred Hodges, showing strong community and political support for Family Reentry's initiatives. The technical production, including the video wall, lighting, and sound, was masterfully managed by Nicholson Events Inc., which elevated the visual and auditory experience for everyone in attendance.

The evening concluded with an electrifying performance by Afro Dancehall artist Lamboginny, who brought the audience to their feet with his energetic beats and powerful message. His performance was the perfect capstone to an evening dedicated to resilience, celebration, and community unity.

The Venue: Knowlton in Bridgeport
Located in the heart of Bridgeport, the Knowlton is more than just a venue—it’s a community space dedicated to fostering creativity, engagement, and collaboration. As the host for Family Reentry’s 40th-anniversary celebration, the Knowlton set the perfect stage for an event that was as informative as it was inspiring. Guests enjoyed the eclectic and artistic atmosphere of the Knowlton, which seamlessly complemented the evening’s blend of fashion, music, and social advocacy. Thanks to the expertise of Nicholson Events Inc., the space was transformed with exceptional lighting and sound that brought every element of the show to life.

The Emcee and Entertainment: Dice Raw and Lamboginny
The Rise & Bloom fashion show was not only a visual delight but also an auditory one, thanks to the dynamic contributions of Dice Raw and Lamboginny. Emceed by Dice Raw of The Roots, the evening flowed seamlessly, with Dice Raw’s charisma and connection to the crowd setting the perfect tone for the event. His presence added a touch of celebrity excitement to the evening, keeping attendees engaged and energized throughout.

Concluding the event, Afro Dancehall artist Lamboginny took the stage with a lively performance that left a lasting impression. Known for his vibrant beats and uplifting lyrics, Lamboginny’s performance resonated with the audience, encapsulating the spirit of resilience and celebration that defined the evening.

Spotlight on Vernice Holmes: Visionary Designer and Community Advocate
A key figure in the fashion show, Vernice Holmes brought her artistic vision and community spirit to life through her designs. Based in Norwalk, CT, Vernice has spent over two decades using fashion as a medium to inspire and uplift. As the creative force behind Sixty by Vernice, she has made a name for herself with bold, thematic fashion show productions that emphasize storytelling and empowerment.

Through her program, Empowering Hue through Art, Vernice Holmes leverages art to foster team building and personal growth. By encouraging creative expression and collaboration, she helps individuals connect with each other in meaningful ways. Her involvement in Rise & Bloom was a testament to her dedication to the community and her passion for using fashion to convey powerful messages of resilience and hope.

Purpose of the Event: Celebrating Family Reentry’s Milestone
The Rise & Bloom fashion show marked a significant milestone for Family Reentry, celebrating 40 years of dedicated service to the Bridgeport community. Since 1984, Family Reentry has provided support for those affected by behavioral health challenges, domestic violence, reentry, and recidivism. By offering evidence-based services and a holistic approach to recovery, the organization has made a substantial difference in the lives of countless individuals and families.

This event was not just a celebration of the past but also a powerful reminder of Family Reentry’s ongoing mission to bring hope and support to those in need. The evening served as a platform to raise awareness about the challenges of reentry and the importance of community support in overcoming them.

Fashion with a Message: The Goal of the Rise & Bloom Show
The Rise & Bloom fashion show was much more than a display of stunning outfits—it was a testament to the power of storytelling through fashion. With each piece crafted to convey messages of resilience, transformation, and personal renewal, the show highlighted the complexities of reentry and the journey toward rebuilding one’s life. The designs celebrated individuality and strength, symbolizing the courage needed to overcome life’s toughest challenges.

Through this artistic expression, the event sought to raise awareness about the reentry process and the importance of support systems for individuals returning from incarceration. By combining fashion with social advocacy, Rise & Bloom provided a unique and impactful way to engage the community in a conversation about reentry and rehabilitation.

Holistic Approach of Family Reentry
For 40 years, Family Reentry has been a beacon of hope for those facing the often-intertwined issues of behavioral health, domestic violence, recidivism, and the challenges of youth at risk. Partnering with Community Resources for Justice, the organization offers a unique, holistic approach to recovery and support that addresses the whole person. Family Reentry’s services focus on fostering healthy relationships, building stronger mental health, and equipping individuals with the tools needed to navigate life after incarceration.

The organization’s evidence-based programs not only provide immediate assistance but also work towards long-term solutions that promote personal growth and self-sufficiency. By addressing the root causes of recidivism and supporting individuals throughout their recovery journeys, Family Reentry plays a crucial role in helping to reduce reoffending and strengthen communities.

A Closer Look at Empowering Hue through Art
One of the highlights of the Rise & Bloom fashion show was the influence of Vernice Holmes’s program, Empowering Hue through Art. This program emphasizes the role of art in personal and professional growth, using creative expression as a tool for team building and communication. Through her innovative approach, Vernice has helped individuals and groups connect and collaborate in meaningful ways, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

Vernice’s belief in the transformative power of art was evident throughout the show, as she used fashion as a medium to share powerful stories of resilience and transformation. Empowering Hue through Art stands as a testament to her commitment to using her talents to uplift and inspire others, making a tangible difference in the lives of those she works with.

Highlights from the Fashion Show
The Rise & Bloom fashion show was a feast for the senses, with each segment bringing something new and thought-provoking to the audience. Bold designs, vibrant colors, and expressive styles dominated the runway, all of which embodied themes of renewal and hope. The audience was captivated by the diverse range of looks, each piece telling a unique story of transformation.

Throughout the evening, attendees witnessed the intersection of fashion and advocacy, with models showcasing designs that reflected personal journeys of overcoming adversity. The energy in the room was palpable, as each outfit evoked a sense of strength and individuality, resonating deeply with the audience and reinforcing the evening’s message of resilience.

NEWS 12, Greenwich Time, and Widespread Media Coverage
The significance of the Rise & Bloom fashion show did not go unnoticed, as reported by NEWS 12, Greenwich Time, and many other news outlets. Their coverage highlighted the event’s impact and Family Reentry’s mission to address important issues such as reentry and recidivism within the community.

NEWS 12 emphasized the organization’s dedication to supporting individuals as they navigate the challenges of returning home from prison, while Greenwich Time highlighted the broader celebration and community engagement. This widespread media attention helped amplify the event’s message, raising awareness across a wider audience and encouraging community members to support Family Reentry’s ongoing initiatives.

Community Impact: Family Reentry’s Role in Bridgeport
Since its founding in 1984, Family Reentry has been a cornerstone of the Bridgeport community, addressing critical issues such as behavioral health, domestic violence, and youth support. By providing holistic, evidence-based services, the organization has not only helped countless individuals rebuild their lives but has also contributed to the overall safety and well-being of the community.

Family Reentry’s programs go beyond immediate assistance by promoting long-term growth and development. Through initiatives that foster healthy relationships, stronger mental health, and personal empowerment, the organization has created lasting positive change. The impact of their work is evident in the many lives they have touched, as well as in the broader community support shown at events like Rise & Bloom.

Building Awareness for Reentry and Recidivism
One of the primary goals of the Rise & Bloom fashion show was to bring greater awareness to the challenges faced by individuals reentering society after incarceration. Reentry can be a complex process, often accompanied by barriers to employment, housing, and social reintegration. Without adequate support, many individuals are at risk of recidivism, which perpetuates a cycle of hardship and lost potential.

Family Reentry’s programs address these challenges head-on by providing services that support mental health, facilitate stable housing, and offer employment assistance. By showcasing these issues through an accessible medium like fashion, the event aimed to educate attendees and the wider community on the importance of investing in reentry programs that promote successful reintegration and reduce recidivism rates.

Ways to Support Family Reentry’s Mission
Family Reentry’s work is made possible through the support of community members, volunteers, and donors who believe in their mission. There are numerous ways to contribute to the organization’s efforts, whether through direct donations, volunteer work, or attending events like Rise & Bloom that help to further their cause. Every contribution, no matter the size, plays a vital role in helping individuals rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society with dignity and hope.

To get involved, you can visit Family Reentry’s website to learn more about their programs, donate to support their initiatives, or volunteer your time. Together, as a community, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those working towards a brighter future.

Conclusion
The Rise & Bloom fashion show at Knowlton was more than just an event—it was a celebration of resilience, community, and the transformative power of support. By combining art, fashion, and music, Family Reentry commemorated 40 years of dedicated service and raised critical awareness for issues that impact many lives. The evening was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a community comes together to champion hope and provide second chances.

As Family Reentry moves forward, the legacy of this event will continue to inspire others to take action and support individuals in their journey toward positive change. With continued community support, Family Reentry will remain a vital resource for individuals and families across Bridgeport and beyond, helping to create stronger, safer communities for all.