About
The Young Miss Buffalo Pageant Scholarship and Enrichment Program, Inc. (YMBP, Inc.) was founded by Detra M. (formerly McTier) Trueheart in 1999 to provide more enriching and life changing opportunities to low income young ladies ages 13-17 in the Buffalo area.
In December 1999, the planning board, a group of intelligent and progressive female professionals, began a mission to empower young ladies 13-17 to reach beyond their own comfort zones through a process of healthy nurturing from the inside out.
In April 2000, the first YMBP, Inc. program planning meeting took place at Canisius College. After many meetings and much preparation, the pageant process was set and commenced on June 3, 2000 and concluded on August 12, 2000. With hard work and determination the first annual Young Miss Buffalo Pageant took place on Saturday, August 19, 2000.
Today YMBP, Inc. is not only committed to providing more enriching and life changing opportunities to low income young ladies ages 13-17 in the Buffalo area, but young ladies across Western New York. YMBP, Inc. is dedicated to addressing and issues within the community facing all young people, with an emphasis on adolescent females.
In an effort to advance the organization to the next level and provide the best program for its participants, the organization became incorporated on September 15, 2005 and on May 29, 2008, the organization became a 501 c3 not-for-profit organization.
Mission
Our mission is to empower young ladies ages 13-17 to reach beyond their own comfort zones through a process of healthy nurturing from the inside out.
Purpose
-
Provide financial assistance for education through scholarships
-
Develop emotional and life skills in program participants through a youth enrichment program which includes workshops and community exploration activities
-
Act as a liaison between young ladies ages 13-17 and the community in an effort to create more community support
My oldest daughter was in the program, when you first put this program together. I loved it. I had no choice but to put my 2nd daughter in it. My daughter is now more outgoing as a result of the program. She is actually meeting more with friends than ever before. She is more mature and more responsible.
YMBP Parent
I learned to speak comfortably, to share the spotlight, to speak louder and clearer, to love myself, to accept my flaws, to make healthier choices, to keep promises, and speak mindfully.
YMBP Participant
Detra- I was overwhelmed by the experience. I thank you for allowing me to be a part of it. I certainly learned and gained more than I possibly could have contributed. Keep up the tremendous work with these phenomenal young women. Best regards
YMBP Volunteer