Ashley Battard Miss Pinellas County 2005

Age: 18

Reside in: Homestead, Florida

Platform: The Importance of Mentoring Our Children and Youth

Education:

• Miami-Dade College-Fall 2004
• School of Mass Communications at the University of South Florida-Fall 2005
• Dual Major in Telecommunications and Public Relations South Dade High School, June 2004

Leadership Roles:
Mentor and Tutor for Miami-Dade Public School students, 2001-2004; Director of South Dade Parks Walking club, 2004; Director of South Dade Parks After School Mentoring Program and Summer Mentoring Program, 2003-2004; Volunteer with the Girl Scouts of America; Coach an all girl 10 and under Volleyball Team.

Accomplishments:
Recognized by Miami-Dade Parks and Recreation for bettering the park system as well as the community; began After School Mentoring program as well as Summer Mentoring program for South Dade Park; created a specific mentoring program for the Girl Scouts entitles "Girl Scouts of America and the Miss. America Organization: hand in hand"; In January 2004 I submitted an article called "Give the Gift of Mentoring" to the South Dade News leader, and received positive reviews from willing individuals

Platform Statement:
"The Importance of Mentoring our Children and Youth"
I want to educate the public on the importance of mentoring and how vital it can be in a child's life. A positive mentor at such a crucial time in the development of a child is essential, especially if they don't have the support of a two-parent family. Mentoring our children not only benefits the children but the mentors and community as well. Throughout my life, I realized that having a mentor that was genuine and compassionate taught me truth and love. Her understanding taught me to listen to people, and her faith taught me to be strong. I therefore feel very blessed to be afforded the opportunity to be someone else's mentor, and take what I have been taught to others, educate the public, and make a lasting and positive difference. I have a strong belief in the children of our community and the difference a mentor can have on them. I believe that if we teach children to be accountable for their actions and teach them understanding of others, as well as themselves, we can !
only better our community and state. As Miss. Pinellas County, I promise to open the doors of opportunity, convey values, and help provide the stability and encouragement that children need to succeed. We can help our community's children by showing them how to make the right choices, and by setting an example. I want to let children know they can dream big and achieve their dreams through education and dedication.