Applications for competitive or non-competitive divisions in the Miss Butte County Scholarship are now being accepted through June 18 for the competitive division and July 11 for the non-competitive division. Photo courtesy of Amber Thompson Photography

BUTTE COUNTY, CA (MPG) - Applications are open for the 2025 Miss Butte County Scholarship Program, and we’re inviting youth across Butte County to join us on a journey of leadership, service, and self-discovery. 

We offer non-competitive divisions for ages four to seven and competitive divisions for ages eight to 20, but before you jump to conclusions, let’s talk about what this program really is.

When people hear the word “pageant,” many still picture outdated stereotypes. Is this a pageant? Yes, but not the kind you’re thinking of. We’re not afraid of the word pageant; instead, we’re redefining it. 

The world of pageantry is evolving, and the Miss Butte County Scholarship Program has proudly led the way with innovation, inclusivity, and purpose. Our program centers around one mission: to help young people in Butte County become the best versions of themselves.

The Miss Butte County Scholarship Program emphasizes poise, confidence, sportsmanship, and service-minded leadership through mentorship and structured activities. Photo courtesy of Amber Thompson Photography

Whether it’s learning how to write a resume, mastering public speaking, preparing for an interview, networking, or building friendships, our contestants leave with real-world skills that will benefit them far beyond the stage.

Some participants come to us with experience in programs like 4-H, Future Farmers of America, or student leadership. Others are just beginning their journey, and we welcome them all. Together, these young leaders learn, grow, and support one another in a uniquely positive and empowering environment. 4-H stands for Head, Heart, Hands and Health.

Community service is at the heart of our program. While it’s not required to compete, we provide more than 50 service opportunities each year to our court.

Whether it’s learning how to write a resume, mastering public speaking, preparing for an interview, networking, or building friendships, Miss Butte County Scholarship Program contestants leave with real-world skills that will benefit them far beyond the stage. Photo courtesy of the Miss Butte County Scholarship Program

Titleholders get to choose which events matter most to them, creating a personalized experience that cultivates self-pride and purpose. On average, our court completes over 1,000 hours of community service annually, and many of our titleholders earn the prestigious Presidential Service Award, issued by the White House.

Through our program, service is more than a checkbox, it’s a lifestyle.

And that spirit of giving extends to our scholarships. In 2024 alone, we awarded over $3,600 in scholarships and $2,000 in additional awards. Over the past five years, we’ve given more than $10,000 in scholarships and since our program began, over $35,000 has been awarded to deserving youth.

We offer skill-building workshops for ages eight to 20, leadership & character development and community engagement. Participants will be able to gain experience with resume writing, public speaking, interview prep, self-confidence, leadership, and impromptu response training.

We emphasize poise, confidence, sportsmanship, and service-minded leadership through mentorship and structured activities.

The world of pageantry is evolving, and the Miss Butte County Scholarship Program has proudly led the way with innovation, inclusivity, and purpose.

Our program isn’t just about preparing youth for competitions; it’s about preparing them for life. We proudly offer free workshops and resources to Butte County youth, regardless of whether they compete.

Those who do join our competition embark on a summer-long experience of personal growth and transformation. Following our annual competition at the Butte County Fair in August, our newly awarded titleholders then serve for a full year, continuing to represent Butte County with pride, compassion, and purpose.

Join us on Saturday, June 7th from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Butte County Fairgrounds Board Room for a free Introduction to Interviews Workshop for youth ages eight through 20. A Q&A about our program will follow at 2:30 p.m.

Applications are available now at buttecountyfair.org or through the fair office. Submissions may be through a traditional paper application or a new online application found under the “Miss Butte County” tab at the bottom of the page.

The competitive division deadline is Friday, June 18 at 5 p.m. and the non-competitive division deadline is Thursday, July 11 at 5 p.m. We support participants every step of the way.

To apply, you need to submit your application, make your entry fee payment, and provide a rough draft resume with a speech.

Miss Butte County Scholarship Program applications may be through a traditional paper application or a new online application found under the “Miss Butte County” tab at the bottom of buttecountyfair.org. Photo courtesy of the Miss Butte County Scholarship Program

For contestants in the 17 to 20 age division, we also ask for a rough draft community service initiative, but don’t worry, these drafts don’t have to be perfect. We accept bullet points, outlines, final documents, or even just ideas. The goal is to get you started.

Our team will help you refine and develop your materials through workshops and one-on-one support. You’ll walk away with polished documents, increased confidence, and skills you can take with you long after the program ends

We’re currently seeking sponsors to help us expand our scholarships and awards.

Your support directly contributes to educational scholarships for Butte County youth, life-changing leadership workshops, increased community service across the county, and a lasting legacy that uplifts and aligns your brand with integrity and purpose.

To learn more about our sponsor packages or how to get involved, please contact [email protected].

Together, we’re shaping tomorrow’s leaders, today.