– a noun
1. a person who solicits contributions or pledges.
2. a gathering held for such solicitation
3. a person who raises money for a cause
4. an event held to raise money for a cause.
Some times the beauty of pageantry is that it gives girls an women the opportunity to be or hold fundraisers. As we wind up this "season of giving", it's important that we be reminded how the wonderful worlds of pageantry and fundraising can go hand in hand. While the first thing we may think about when entering a pageant becomes an idea is the cost - try thinking about it as a small investment in the betterment of humanity.
Many pageant systems smile upon those who have a platform they promote throughout their reign or quest to win the crown. Often times, showcasing how involved you are in a particular platform can be demonstrated by the events you hold to raise funds or awareness. While organizations may be able to do it on their own, having the assistance of a pageant queen to put a face on it doesn't hurt.
Sometimes, it just feels good to know that you can use your title as Miss Turkey Leg to encourage other people to come out and make a donation to Special Olympics, Cancer Awareness, HIV/AIDS or Big Brothers Big Sisters to name a few.
Pageantry can be about so much more than just looking pretty if you take the chance to put your heart and mind into it. This weekend Miss DC International and Miss Teen DC International will be hosting an ice skating fundraiser to raise funds for the homeless and self esteem organizations. Now what could be more fun that a Saturday afternoon on ice.
Look beyond the crown and think about how you can make a difference in the lives of others.
