This year, a challenge was extended to the participants in the Miss America's Outstanding Teen Pageant. With Children's Miracle Network being the official charity of both the Miss America Organization and Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization, we wanted to raise as much money for the cause as possible.

The recipient of the 2008 CMN Award was Miss South Dakota's Outstanding Teen, Carrie Wintle. She raised over $5,000 for CMN in just one month!

In addition to being the CMN Award recipient, Carrie also was the top ad sales winner! This award was sponsored by MAOT's Program book designers, Grandesign. In addition to the recognition, she received a $3,000 scholarship and $1,000 cash!!!

So What’s Carrie’s advice?

What's your strategy for collecting money for CMN?
My method is to get the community involved as much as possible. Remember you cannot raise money without the support of the community. One of my most effective fundraisers was my trunk show, where I modeled all my competition clothes for the public. That is just one of many ideas for community involved fundraisers.

Why did you collect money for the cause?
One of the main reasons why I started participating in this organization was to be able to promote my platform and also the national platform. After I had held my trunk show I decided to visit a local CMN hospital in South Dakota. The second I walked out of that hospital I knew exactly why I cared so much about helping raise dollars for CMN. The children I met were filled with so much joy even in the hardest times. The least I could do is raise money to help provide them with the proper care they need.

How would you inspire other titleholders to try to raise funds for the cause?
First of all, they need to think of what it would be like to be in a situation where you would have to be hospitalized. I am sure you would want the love and support of your community. In addition, visit a children's hospital and you will realize how much the children appreciate even the slightest of gestures. Finally, never let a moment pass you by in life to help others.

How can these task help you in the "real world."
First of all, life is to short to waste time giving up all the time. So whether your are playing a sport or selling ads you always need to view it as a learning experience that will help you become more prepared for future excitements. Secondly, my school is getting a lot of new students and being able to go up to them and carry on a simple conversation is great!

Check back monthly to hear Carrie’s advice and thoughts on raising funds. To learn more about Children’s Miracle Network, please visit www.MAOTeen4kids.org. If you have questions for Carrie, please email Allison@MAOTeen.org.