Preparations Underway For Idaho Miss Amazing Pageant

BOISE (KTVB) -- Preparations are already underway for a unique Idaho pageant. The Idaho Miss Amazing Pageant celebrates girls and women with disabilities.

The Miss Amazing Pageant started in Omaha, Nebraska in 2007. Six years later, it debuted in Idaho and its been helping build confidence ever since.

"You need to bring a box of tissues, it's that touching," said Jennifer Claassen, Idaho state director for Miss Amazing.

In its second year, 50 contestants from across Idaho hit the stage in Nampa and strutted their stuff for the Idaho Miss Amazing Pageant.

"It really showcases the abilities of the girls and the women with disabilities," said Claassen.

She heard about the event a few years ago and wanted to bring the pageant to the Gem State.

"It's an absolute life changing event," said Claassen. "We have hair and make up that comes in and glams the girls up, and they just come out and parade around the stage and show everybody what they've got."

The 23-year-old from Kuna was crowned Junior Miss Amazing Queen, but that's not what she's most proud of.

"Making bonds and friendship. That's all what it's about," she said. "All the other girls, they are amazing. They're like family to me. It's like a second family."

The goal of the pageant experience is to build up the girls' self confidence.

"It's definitely not your typical pageant. Our girls are judged on what they can do," added Claassen.

From personalized introductions to special talents and even an evening gown presentation, Claassen says the pageant is transformative for everyone, not just the contestants.

"To see girls that have never had an opportunity to feel beautiful and special and to see them gain that self-confidence is what it's all about," she said. "There's nothing that can top that," she said.

Interest in the Idaho Miss Amazing Pageant continues to grow and there's still time to sign up for the 2015 event. Organizers hope more girls and women with disabilities will join in and be inspired.

The 2015 Idaho Miss Amazing Pageant will be held March 27 and 28 at the Nampa Civic Center.