Let's Talk Platform

Finding Your Platform

1. Reflect on Your Passions: Think about what truly excites you, what breaks your heart, or what has deeply impacted your life. Platforms built on personal experiences are often the most compelling.
2. Consider Your Strengths: What unique talents or skills can you bring to a cause? Your platform should align with how you can make the biggest impact.
3. Research Current Issues: Look into your community's needs. Are there challenges that resonate with you or align with your values?
4. Be Authentic: Choose something you deeply care about. Your passion will shine through in interviews, speeches, and appearances.
5. Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve with your platform. Whether it’s awareness, fundraising, or volunteering, knowing your goals will keep you focused.

Connecting with a Local Nonprofit

1. Research Local Organizations: Look for nonprofits in your area that align with your platform's mission. Start with a simple online search or check community boards.
2. Attend Events: Volunteer at community events or attend fundraisers. It’s a great way to network and understand the organization's needs.
3. Reach Out Professionally: Send a well-crafted email or call the nonprofit to introduce yourself, explain your platform, and express your interest in collaborating. Example later in this blog.
4. Offer Value: Be clear about how you can support them—whether it's through raising awareness, volunteering, fundraising, or leveraging your platform to amplify their message.
5. Build Relationships: Establish genuine connections with the nonprofit’s team. Collaboration is more meaningful and impactful when built on mutual respect.
6. Start Small: Begin by volunteering your time or resources to see how well the partnership fits. This helps you build credibility and trust.

Making It Work for the Pageant

1. Document Your Involvement: Take photos, share updates, and tell stories about your impact. It’s not only inspiring but shows judges your commitment.
2. Be Consistent: Regularly engage with the nonprofit, even outside of major events. Consistency demonstrates dedication.
3. Integrate Your Platform: Make sure your pageant activities, speeches, and social media presence highlight your platform and collaboration.
4. Share Success Stories: Highlight how your efforts are making a difference—this shows measurable impact and motivates others to support the cause.

Subject: Collaboration Opportunity with [Nonprofit Name]​
Dear [Recipient's Name or "Team at Nonprofit Name"],
My name is Victoria Wejko, and I am honored to serve as Mrs. New York American 2024. As part of my role, I have the opportunity to amplify causes that align with my passion and platform, [Platform Name or focus area, e.g., "supporting childhood trauma survivors"].
I greatly admire the work your organization does in [specific focus of the nonprofit, e.g., "providing resources for children and families in need"], and I would love the chance to support your mission. My goal is to use my platform to raise awareness, engage the community, and contribute to meaningful change.
I would love to discuss how I could collaborate with your organization. Whether it’s through volunteering, assisting with fundraising events, or using my social media reach to spotlight your work, I am eager to explore ways we can partner to make a greater impact together.
Would you be open to a meeting or call to discuss this further? Please let me know a time that works best for you, or I can adjust to your schedule.
Thank you for your time and for all the incredible work you do in our community. I look forward to the possibility of working together to make a difference!
Warm regards,
Victoria Wejko
Mrs. New York American 2024
[Your Email Address] | [Your Phone Number]
[Optional: Your Social Media Handles]