14-year-old Whitney Casas has always been a very involved teen whether it is at school or in her community.
But just months ago she decided to take on the “Miss River’s Outstanding Teen” beauty pageant.
Deciding to participate in one of the Miss America pageants for her first time resulted with great triumphs on Whitney’s part.
“I got top 5 interview in my division and I also won a trophy for my talent, which is playing the flute.” Explained Casas.
But it wasn’t only Whitney’s talents and gracefulness in speaking that caught the judge’s attention; Casas’ passion for music, and need to support others certainly stood out and gave her the opportunity to be the current 2012 Miss River’s Outstanding Teen.
Before the pageant it had only been 4 years ago that Casas felt a connection with music. She found that music was not only for recreational purposes, but rather she learned that she could share it to better aid the life of those around her.
Whitney has gone above everything to share music in a positive light, “My platform is Stop the Madness and Start the Magic of Music which is using music therapy to better your life whether it’s teaching you or if you are in a bad mood it is so beneficial.”
And she’s not stopping there; she has even started a pledge at her school where she has already obtained 500 signatures, she explains her pledge, “…it says to look to music when you’re frustrated or not in a good mood.”
As a young teen she understands how music therapy can be used as an avenue for emotional and social needs for people of all ages, from young children, to senior citizens. Casas in her spare time mentors special needs kids by teaching them to play the piano, flute, recorder and even the drums.
Whitney’s mother Penny Casas believes that her daughter is setting a life example, “It’s teaching other peers to be sensitive to others to be sensitive to other students who have special needs.”
Unlike many teens that spend their afternoons at the mall or hanging out, Whitney can always be found volunteering at a local nursing home, providing company, friendship and of course music to many of its residents.
Shannon Carlson, Activities Director from the nursing home also recognizes how big of an impact Whitney’s musicality can have at the home, “Music is always good for the residents it brings their spirtis up, it is relaxing and it is good for them.”
As you follow Whitney on her visits one can see her playing games, catching up with other residents, and just making sure that the have someone to talk to. But there is one thing she enjoys the most, “One of my favorite things is doing their nails. Because they really enjoy it and it’s fun.” Said Whitney.
Whitney demonstrates that she stands as a role model both for other teens, and adults.
Carlson recognizes this about Whitney’s character, “It is hard for me to remember that she is 14 because she is so young and is very impressive.”
This Miss River’s Outstanding Teen continues to see herself in a position of helping those around her. Currently working to publish a children’s book, raising funds to purchase recorders for children, and partaking in the next Miss Scott County Outstanding Teen.
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