Views from the Shore
Every summer, as Night in Venice approaches, Ocean City begins to buzz with the excitement that surrounds one of the Jersey Shore’s most recognizable traditions. The decorated boats, the crowds lining the bay, the music, the energy, it’s one of those events that instantly says “summer” to anyone who has spent time here.
For decades, another tradition has been tied to that celebration: Miss Night in Venice.
And while many people recognize the crowns and gowns associated with the event, what often may get overlooked is the real purpose behind it. The Miss Night in Venice organization has spent generations helping local charities while giving young women an opportunity to build leadership skills, earn community service hours and compete for scholarship money that can help support their future education.
One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding Miss Night in Venice is that contestants must be from Ocean City. They do not. Participants can come from anywhere in New Jersey, or anywhere in the country, as long as they are between the ages of 15 and 25.
Another misconception is that this is a traditional pageant. It really isn’t. There’s no swimsuit competition, no talent competition and no panel of judges scoring contestants based on appearance. The competition is centered entirely on fundraising and community involvement. Contestants spend five weeks raising money for selected local charities, and the contestant who raises the most money is crowned Miss Night in Venice.
This year’s winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship that can be used toward college, vocational school or graduate school. The winner also has the option to donate the scholarship funds to a registered nonprofit organization of her choice.
Beyond the scholarship itself, participants gain valuable leadership experience while learning how to organize fundraising efforts, connect with local businesses and support causes that improve the lives of others. Contestants also earn verified community service hours that can strengthen resumes, scholarship applications and future career opportunities, all while becoming part of one of the Jersey Shore’s most celebrated summer traditions.
Over the years, the Miss Night in Venice Charity has raised more than $1 million for nonprofit organizations throughout Atlantic and Cape May counties. Here at Shore Medical Center, we’ve experienced that generosity firsthand. Since 2004, the Miss Night in Venice organization has contributed more than $120,000 to Shore Medical Center programs and initiatives. Most recently, those funds helped support Shore’s operating room refresh project as well as a new CT Simulator in the Shore Cancer Center, technology that plays an important role in helping physicians plan radiation treatment for cancer patients.
I also think there’s something refreshing about the message behind the event itself. At a time when young people are often underestimated, programs like Miss Night in Venice continue to highlight young women who are willing to step forward, work hard and make a positive difference in their communities.
Applications must be submitted by May 26. For more information, email nightinvenicecommit@gmail.com or visit https://missnightinvenice.com/contact/.
Brian Cahill is the Director of Marketing for Shore Medical Center and Shore Physicians Group. He also volunteers on the Board of the Somers Point Business Association and is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Business at Stockton University.
