I am passionate about volunteering; the desire to serve is deeply ingrained, a legacy from my family. Many members of my family have made great contributions in giving of their time, talents, and service to the community.  In watching their selfless efforts, I learned that there is no greater joy than to touch the life of another person and in turn, making our communities a better and more caring place to live.  My family’s passion is infectious, and I now have the same desire to serve others.

When I became involved in the Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen program, I chose Breast Cancer Awareness as my platform. Breast cancer is such a prevalent disease in our society. The odds are that if you haven’t had a family member with this horrible disease, you know someone who has. The American Cancer society estimates about 232,340 new cases of invasive Breast Cancer in women, with about 39,620 deaths and 2,200 cases in men with about 410 deaths.

My family and I know personally the heartbreak, struggle, and triumph brought by this devastating disease. My grandmother, great aunts and cousins were affected. Recently, my aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to undergo a double mastectomy, followed by chemotherapy, radiation and reconstructive surgery. My Aunt and I have always had a very special bond. So, with her diagnosis and treatment, I knew I had to support efforts to find a cure. The Susan G. Komen Foundation was an easy choice for me to pour out my efforts.

Since October 2012, I have worked more than 200 volunteer hours and helped raise approximately $8000.00 for the annual breast cancer "Race for the Cure" campaign. I helped raise the money through Silent Auctions, "Go Pink- Go Greek" Luncheons, "Passionately Pink Pizza Parties," “Think Pink” Bake Sale, “Raffle for Pinks,” Coin Collection or Donations boxes placed in local businesses; "Wall of Hope" which consisted of breast cancer ribbons hung for $1 Donations at local businesses. All food and auction items for these charity events were donated by local businesses and restaurants. All proceeds raised went to the support of the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Additionally, I was able to negotiate a contract with a local business, Spectrum Enterprises, LLC, to donate a percentage of sales from online or EBay shopping to breast cancer awareness, research and treatment. I was recently recognized in four local newspapers for my community service efforts. I designed a webpage for annual online donations. I also visited an OB/GYN office to educate, raise awareness and to distribute pink ribbons. I was fortunate to be able to volunteer with the Auburn University’s modeling board for the “Couture for A Cure” Fashion Show. This volunteer opportunity allowed me to expand my support to other Breast Cancer organizations in the Auburn/Opelika area. 

Because I have a heart to serve I not only have been working on my platform, but have been involved in other volunteer projects as well. I am a Duke of Edinburgh silver medalist and attended the Duke of Edinburgh's award garden party; the Duke’s organization has partnered with the Miss America Organization to promote community service and leadership skills; I participated in three community parades; a Books-A-million's book fair, with all proceeds benefitting the Children’s Hospital of Alabama; I performed and made cards for the children in the hospital; I wrapped gifts at Macy's department store annually, with all proceeds going to Grace House Ministries; I encouraged others to write Santa letters at Macy's department store to benefit the "Make-A-Wish" foundation; and continue to promote Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

 As Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen, I would continue to pour myself into our communities, to educate others regarding the benefits of serving their communities, and to expand on promotion of my platform. I would promote the Susan G. Komen organization as well as to develop the active contract that I have established with the local business on a state level. I am extremely excited about the Picture the Cure people's choice photogenic contest honoring Breast Cancer patients and survivors! Please go in and vote to show your love and support to all of these beautiful women.

Think of what an impact this could have on getting us a step closer to THE CURE! 

Imagine the world without BREAST Cancer!