The River Valley resident and reigning Miss Sebastian County has been named the Arkansas delegate to the Miss Worldwide pageant on July 26 in Omaha, Neb.
“This opportunity is a tremendous honor, and I’m thrilled to represent Arkansas on the Miss Worldwide stage,” Dunaway said. “As a single mother and advocate for families, I deeply understand the challenges many families face. I’m passionate about sharing my story, inspiring others to pursue their passions, and highlighting the impact of 100 Families.”
Unlike traditional competitions, the Miss Worldwide pageant—part of the Miss America umbrella—does not require a talent performance. Instead, each delegate promotes a charity or cause.
Dunaway describes the event as one that “stands for integrity” and uplifts women who “lead with purpose.”
A single mother of nine and foster mom to more than 160 at-risk children, Dunaway has seen firsthand the need for family-centered support systems. As spokesperson for 100 Families, her platform centers on empowering families in crisis through coordinated community resources.
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The 100 Families program helps stabilize families by connecting them to housing, employment, addiction recovery, and parenting support while working to reduce incarceration and promote long-term healing.
Her connection to the organization is personal. Her mother, former Arkansas State Rep. Charlotte Douglas, was instrumental in creating 100 Families.
Molly Dunaway, Miss Sebastian County, will represent Arkansas at the 2025 Miss Worldwide pageant in Omaha, Neb.
“I went with my mom to those early meetings when it was just an idea,” Dunaway said. “Watching it grow—never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be advocating for 100 Families on a national stage.”
Dunaway began fostering children before her involvement with the program and said the experience solidified her belief in its mission.
“I don’t regret any of the fostering I’ve done,” she said. “I still have good relationships with many of them—I’ve even been there when they had their children. My biggest lesson is that parents love their children, but life can get in the way. Whether it’s mental health, lack of education, or no support system—sometimes people don’t just need a second hand, they need a third or fourth. 100 Families offers a non-judgmental chance to anyone willing to take it.”
The Miss Worldwide event begins on July 20 and culminates in the final competition on July 26. Those interested in supporting or sponsoring Dunaway’s journey can contact her through her digital business card.
This article originally appeared on Fort Smith Times Record: River Valley’s Molly Dunaway to represent Arkansas in Miss Worldwide pageant
