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Created: November 20 2014

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – ARC Broward, a not-for-profit human services organization dedicated to providing services to children and adults with developmental disabilities, hosted its Second Annual Miss ARC Broward: A Pageant to Empower Young Women with Disabilities, presented by Holland & Knight at Parker Playhouse on November 16. The entertaining show, celebrating 16 girls ages 6-17 with disabilities, drew nearly 500 friends, family and supporters who helped to raise more than $30,000 for ARC Broward.

The 16 contestants participated in a question and answer segment and showcased their talents such as dance, poetry reading and cheerleading. Each young girl was presented with a trophy and distinct award.

Baily Bender, 14-year-old Coconut Creek resident, was crowned Miss ARC Broward by Miss Florida USA Ashleigh LollieThe title winner, 14-year-old Coconut Creek resident, Bailey Bender, was crowned by Miss Florida USA Ashleigh Lollie. She was awarded tickets to enjoy the Nutcracker Ballet at the Broward Center of Performing Arts. As reigning Miss ARC Broward, Bailey will represent all of the contestants over the next year at various ARC Broward and community events.

"In addition to giving these deserving young women an unforgettable experience, this pageant also serves as a platform to share with the South Florida community just how much individuals with disabilities have to offer," said ARC Broward President/CEO Dennis Haas. "The event perfectly aligns with the mission of ARC Broward to transform the community by providing opportunities for people with disabilities and other life challenges to realize their full potential."

Joy Taylor of the Zaslow and Joy Show on FM 104.3 and disabilities advocate Yessenia Leyva, served as the pageant's emcees. Attendees were entertained during the pageant by a special performance from the 2013 Miss ARC Broward, Sabrina London, and her dance troupe, the Heartbeats. Also, young singer, Ava Boswell, performed the national anthem and another show stopper.

"We are incredibly thankful to ARC Broward for allowing Holland & Knight to participate in this event," said Tammy Knight, partner and chair of Holland & Knight's Women's Initiative. "Our firm strongly supports the empowerment of women of all ages, and these young ladies displayed incredible character, confidence and more importantly, happiness, while participating in this event. Their excitement spilled over into the audience making this a fabulous event for all."

Miss ARC Broward pageant judges included Miss Florida USA Ashleigh Lollie; Ted Scouten, CBS reporter/anchor; Tammy Knight. Esq., partner of Holland & Knight; Kelly Blanco of NBC 6 South Florida; Joe Eppy of Eppy Group; Michael Goodman of Goodman Public Relations and Kim Cagiano of SunTrust.

Pageant sponsors include Presenting Sponsor Holland & Knight, SunTrust, The Eppy Group, McGladrey, Publix Super Markets Charities, Broward Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization, Miss Katie's Charm School & Boutique, Etiquette Boutique, The Eaton Family, United Way of Broward County, Casbah Spa & Salon, Galleria Fort Lauderdale, Goodman Public Relations and LifeStyle Magazine. Proceeds from the event directly supported the pageant and ARC Broward programs.