Madeline Delp, Ms. Wheelchair USA 2017
Ms. Wheelchair USA is looking for volunteers of all ages to help with its annual televised event, along with activities leading up to the pageant.
The events begin Sunday July 15 with registration and check-in, followed by rehearsals and other activities, leading to live onstage shows July 20 and 21.
The production, called “The Greatest Show…A Celebration of Humanity,” will culminate with the crowning of a new Ms. Wheelchair USA at the Walsh Jesuit High School Theatre, 550 Wyoga Lake Road, in Cuyahoga Falls.
Volunteers may assist for one day of the event, or all week long depending on their availability. The steampunk-themed circus show will celebrate women with disabilities from all over the country.
Boys and girls ages 6 to 12 are needed to serve as Little Brothers and Little Sisters to the contestants participating in the finale show, escorting them during competitions. There are 12 spots for boys and 12 spots for girls to participate in the circus themed show. Children will be needed for one rehearsal on Wednesday, July 18 at 6:30 p.m. and then for the show at 7 p.m. on Sat., July 21. To volunteer, email [email protected].
Women are needed to serve as liaisons for the contestants, assisting them throughout the competition week with their schedules, appearances and during competition. No medical training is necessary, and liaisons will not be providing any medical or personal-hygiene care for the participants.
Liaisons accompany the contestants and crew throughout the week to different events, provide support, directions, information and other assistance. There will be one training for liaisons in June, and liaisons will report for duty beginning Monday, July 16, at 10 a.m., when the contestants and their entourages enjoy a day of appearances, a luncheon, and shopping at the Hartville Marketplace.
The schedule varies throughout the week. To volunteer as a liaison or for more info, contact Georgi Hudson-Smith at (330) 612-5242 or email [email protected].
“Our national contestants are very excited and all are poised and ready to win the crown,” said Lowery Lockard, executive producer of Ms. Wheelchair USA. “Local children contribute a lot to the community of the show, and the contestants love having new little siblings from Ohio,” Lockard added. “The local liaisons are crucial to the event, assisting the women throughout the week, keeping them on time for appearances and easing their nerves during competition.”
The Ms. Wheelchair USA program promotes glamour, self-confidence and community service; celebrating the achievements of women with disabilities. For info or to sponsor or volunteer contact Ms. Wheelchair USA national headquarters at (330) 612-5242, email [email protected], or contact the program via Facebook at www.facebook.com/mswheelchairusa.
