Pageant Hopeful Turns to Crowdfunding to Pursue Dream

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — A young woman, a finalist in the Miss New York 2017 pageant, has turned to crowdfunding to make a wish become reality.

A GoFundMe page, "Sponsor me! Miss NY 2017 Finalist", has raised $1,075 of its $4,500 goal so far.

"My name is Dakota Kalbacher. I'm 23 years old and I live in Southampton, NY. I'm a finalist in the Miss New York 2017 pageant. I'm looking for sponsors/donations to support me on this exciting journey," she wrote. "I'm not your typical 'pageant girl' and that's why I want this chance. Like many, I've overcome many obstacles with both my single mom and sister. We are not victims, we are victors."

A foreign language major and graduating from Suffolk County Community College this spring, Kalbacher said she attends full time on a full scholarship.

"I speak fluent English, Spanish, Portuguese and American Sign Language. I love to learn. Music is my life. I sing, play piano and write music, performing every week at Baron's Cove Hotel and Restaurant, where I work."

She, her mom, and sister Jade, "are starting a new chapter in our lives and working hard."

As for why individuals should sponsor her for the competition, Kalbacher said, 'I've lived in New York my whole life and would love to represent New York" in a way that's real and authentic.

"I hope to bring a fresh perspective to this competition and use this opportunity as a way for me to get my message out to the world. My message is to encourage others to be weird, authentic, kind and confident in themselves and in who they are."

But bringing a dream to fruition is costly, she said.

"The pageant fees, along with dresses, hair, makeup, travel expenses, etc. definitely add up. I'm a full time college student working full time at a restaurant, thus, it's a bit over my budget. I've collected a registration fee and a donation from my mom and grandma, but, unfortunately, it isn't enough for me to go on to compete for the title of Miss New York at my A-game. Every little bit helps and I thank you for all and any support that you are willing to offer."