Annual Exhibit Honors Children and Youth Living with Disability

(COLUMBIA, SC) – Vivienne Fonte and her family are one of more than 60 families participating in Family Connection of South Carolina’s LOOK! 2025 photography exhibit. The exhibit offers an inspiring glimpse into the lives of children and young people who have a disability or chronic health condition. To create the exhibit, professional photographers from across the state volunteered their time to host photo sessions with families who have received services from the organization.

“Our family is excited to participate in LOOK!,” says, Vivienne’ mom, Katie. “We have been fortunate enough to see a full circle moment with our involvement with Family Connection. From the overwhelming feelings when Vivienne was first diagnosed as a toddler and finding connection and education through Family Connection to now seeing Vivi thriving and able to give back through volunteering at Family Connection events is truly what it is all about for us! We hope the LOOK! event reminds everyone to cherish every happy moment, every accomplishment no matter how big or small, and to always keep dreaming big, never limiting those dreams due to a diagnosis.”

The LOOK! 2025 exhibit, presented by Groucho’s Deli, will open at a private reception for the participating families, photographers, and sponsors at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 13th at 701 Whaley. The exhibit opens to the public on July 15th at the Belk Court at Columbiana Centre and will run through August 8th.

“We are honored to present this important exhibit to our participating families and photographers and to have it travel to venues throughout the state in the coming months” said Amy Holbert, CEO of Family Connection. “The intent of LOOK! is to highlight the beauty and unique abilities of the individuals being photographed. We hope those who view the exhibit will take a moment to reflect and see the joy in everyday moments as experienced by these children and youth who also happen to be living with a disability,” added Holbert.

From an early age, Vivienne Fonte’s talents and dedication were a part of her journey. She was identified for her state’s gifted and talented program in third grade, highlighting her intellectual strengths. Beyond academics, Vivi has displayed exceptional musical ability, teaching herself to play multiple instruments. Recently, she earned the prestigious Gold Presidential Service Award and received recognition from the South Carolina legislature and her town council for her extraordinary dedication to community service. She also received the national title of 2024 American United Miss Preteen, a testament to her poise and determination. Vivi was honored this year for the passing of Bill 3710 in the General Assembly which honors her charm and poise. She was invited to be a guest on the floor of the General Assembly where she was presented with a copy of her resolution.

Living with Autism, ADHD, and anxiety has added complexity to Vivi’s path, but it has also shaped her into a compassionate and empathetic individual. She has turned her challenges into strengths, connecting deeply with others and advocating for inclusivity. Her work with organizations like Special Olympics and Family Connection’s Buddy Walk shows her commitment to the disability community.

In addition to Groucho’s Deli as Presenting Sponsor, LOOK! 2025 is sponsored by McGuire Woods Consulting, Bright Start, HealthLinks Magazine, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. Sponsorship and donation opportunities are still available and can be found at www.familyconnectionsc.org/look or by calling 803-995-1413.