Colorado Angels Pageant History

Richelle Lanphear and Vanessa Schwartz are the founders of Colorado Angels Pageant.  The two connected because they both had children with special needs. Richelle was searching for something her Sami could participate in. She found the Angels Pageant System in Arkansas. She loved the idea of this, talked with Arkansas, and then with Vanessa about starting a pageant in Colorado.  Vanessa's response?  “Are you crazy!”  It is busy as a regular parent, even busier as a special needs parent.  Of course, immediately after this reaction, Vanessa said “Yes! Let’s do it!”  They sought out after team members and it’s history from there. 

Richelle and Vanessa, both with special needs children, realized there are not  many activities or events for special needs to be a part of, in or out of school.  Their pageant would be a special day for the children and the parents both - as worry is a big part of their lives. This would be a day for special needs to shine, show their talents, relax, and have fun in a judgment free environment.  It would also be a way to expand friendships and relations within the special needs community.  

The first Colorado Angels Pageant was in 2013. Unfortunately, Richelle and Vanessa's girls were not able to participate as they were both sick.  However, it was only the beginning of what would become an annual event. 

 The Colorado Angels Pageant is held once a year in August in Loveland, Colorado.  As the Colorado Angels Pageant Organization grows, more events will be added.