Community Involvement On Agenda For Next Miss Miami USA
MIAMI (CBS4) - The world of pageants can involve more than just beauty; it can also be about heart. One local organization is hoping to give back to their community while encouraging women to build their self esteem. You start with beauty, mix in some brains, add a little heart, and you have all the makings for Miss Miami USA.
"I am living proof of pageantry working," said Desiree Sardo, Assistant Director for the Miss Miami USA Pageant being held February 13th.
"It is a modernized way to show what women are, what they show case, what they do and how they are making a difference."
Sardo is speaking from experience. A former Miss Puerto Rico 2004, Sardo makes sure Miss Miami USA gives back to the community through something called the People's Choice Award
The contest places different bowls with the women's names on them and the audience who attends the pageant selects the people choice by donating cash to their favorite contestant's bowl.
"We collect all the money and the girl that has the most money goes to the V.A.C.C. Camp," said Sardo to CBS4's Jorge Estevez.
This year's recipient is V.A.C.C. Camp where children with special medical needs come to South Florida for a week of fun.
Charity is what winning the title was about for last year's Miss Miami Teen USA winner, Jeanette Rosell, who works with the charity
I care I cure.
"I know that I helped someone and was able to do something with my sash," said Jeanette Rosell, Miss Miami Teen USA 2011.
Last year's Miss Miami USA winner, Damaris Aguiar, gives her time to Big Brothers, Big Sisters.
"A lot of girls do not have the opportunity to have a mentor or guidance. I feel when you have a title you can do that," said Aguiar.
The pageant will be at the Doubletree Hotel at 711 NW 72nd Avenue in Miami February 13th at 2pm
