Arc Broward is looking for contestants for its 10th Annual Miss Arc Broward pageant, presented by Pediatric Associates. The Nov. 13 pageant at Parker Playhouse in Fort Lauderdale enables young women with disabilities to showcase their talents to cultivate confidence, hopefulness, teamwork and compassion. The event also helps raise money for Arc Broward, which provides opportunities for people with disabilities and other life challenges to realize their full potential.

Young women ages 6 to 17 are encouraged to participate. There are two categories, Little Miss Arc Broward (ages 6-11) and Miss Arc Broward (ages 12-17). The deadline for entrée into the pageant is the end of August. Each contestant will receive a swag bag of gifts and participate in the Ice Cream Social kick-off in September and a Spa Night.

“The Miss Arc Broward Pageant is truly unique and one of my favorite events,” Kim Vassar says, Chief Advancement Officer for Arc Broward. “It redefines traditional beauty standards and shows support for our amazing contestants. It showcases the amazing talents of young women with disabilities while our community joins in and supports Arc Broward.”

On pageant day, the contestants and teen ambassadors come together to perform a group dance routine. Each contestant can showcase their talents, personality and evening wear in front of cheering family, friends and fans. The pageant typically draws more than 600 spectators. Local community groups form “Cheer Squads” to support contestants. After the procession, Miss Arc Broward and Little Miss Arc Broward serve as a voice and advocate for their community, attending events where they wear their pageant sash. Last year, Miss Arc Broward crowned 14-year-old Samantha Bash and 10-year-old Zoe Woods. The entire experience provides an opportunity for the community to work with Arc Broward to change how people with disabilities are embraced and included.

Contestants must live in Broward County and be between ages 6 to 17. For information, call 954.746.9400, ext. 2012, or email [email protected]. The application can be found online at arcbroward.com. Arc Broward is looking for corporate and individual sponsors and donations. For sponsorship/donation inquiries or ways to get involved, please contact [email protected] or call 954.746.9400 ext. 2209.