Arc Broward Opens Applications for 2026 Miss Arc Broward Pageant Celebrating Women with Disabilities

Arc Broward has announced the opening of applications for its 13th Annual Miss Arc Broward Pageant, inviting young women ages 6 to 17 with disabilities to participate as contestants and students to serve as teen ambassadors. The event will take place on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 2 p.m. at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale, continuing the organization's tradition of building confidence and community for women with disabilities.

The Miss Arc Broward Pageant represents more than just a competition—it serves as a celebration of belonging, confidence, and self-expression. Participants join a supportive community where they are empowered to shine, build meaningful connections, and strengthen their self-esteem. Teen Ambassadors play a critical role as mentors, advocates, and liaisons between contestants and the public, creating an inclusive environment that extends beyond the pageant stage.

Julie Price, CEO of Arc Broward, emphasized the transformative nature of the event, stating that the pageant celebrates each girl for who she is while demonstrating the power of courage and self-expression. The teen ambassadors help create lasting bonds of friendship, encouragement, and advocacy, contributing to a supportive network that benefits all participants.

Participation in the Miss Arc Broward Pageant is completely free, making it accessible to all interested young women. Contestants gain valuable self-confidence through their involvement, participate in group activities, and receive professional headshots, swag bags, and exciting prizes. The experience provides opportunities for personal growth and social development that can have lasting positive effects on participants' lives.

Teen Ambassadors develop essential leadership skills while playing an active role in promoting inclusion as contestants prepare for the pageant. Both teen ambassadors and cheer squad members can earn school volunteer service hours for their participation, providing additional incentive for student involvement. Teens are encouraged to register as Pageant Ambassadors to help create a magical experience for pageant participants through special events, activities, rehearsals, and support on pageant day.

School, youth, and community groups are invited to form Cheer Squads to support pageant participants from the audience during the event. The organization also offers sponsorship opportunities for individuals and businesses interested in showcasing their support for inclusion and disability advocacy. Applications for contestants and teen ambassadors must be submitted by December 15, with more information available at https://arcbroward.com/miss-arc-broward/.

This initiative represents an important step in promoting disability inclusion and empowerment through community-based programming. By providing platforms for self-expression and leadership development, the pageant helps challenge stereotypes about people with disabilities while fostering greater understanding and acceptance within the broader community. The program's impact extends beyond the participants themselves, influencing public perceptions and contributing to more inclusive communities where individuals with disabilities can thrive.