EMPOWERING STUDENTS, ONE SCHOLARSHIP AT A TIME

Women on the Verge harnesses the power of women in our community in support of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County mission. Together, we are a powerful network of passionate women dedicated to transforming the futures of graduating high school students. We’re opening doors to higher education and career training, giving Big Futures Littles the tools to thrive.

OUR FOCUS

To provide scholarships, mentorship, and unwavering support to help students achieve their dreams of attending college, trade school, or pursuing professional success.

Dollars raised by Women on the Verge are dedicated for post-high school scholarships, including for both college tuition, vocational training and expenses. Nearly $250,000 has been distributed to students in need since Women on the Verge was established in 2013. The scholarship initiative was the brainchild of Women on the Verge founder Traci Miller and charter member Mary Harris.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE TODAY

Every dollar you donate directly supports a student on their journey to success:

  • $250: Supplies one semester of books.
  • $500: Covers tuition for one semester at a local community college.
  • $1,000: Helps with transportation, housing, or food expenses for a semester.
  • $5,000: Fully funds a scholarship for one year of education or training.

Women on the Verge focuses on impact. Your ongoing contributions today, create BIG FUTURES tomorrow. This isn’t just about joining a group; it’s about changing lives for youth in Broward County.

“The ‘Littles’ as our Little Brothers and Little Sisters are known, have mentors in their lives that help them realize what they are capable of achieving. With our scholarship program, we can actually offer the financial support to help them achieve those dreams through all types of post-secondary education and training. We can make a life-altering difference in a student’s future.”
Traci Miller, Miller Construction. Founder Member of Women on the Verge.


L-R: Jennifer Homan, Erica Stowers, Cindy Schutt, Traci Miller & Malena Mendez

MEET THE CO-CHAIRS

Lieutenant Selina Hightower, a trailblazer in law enforcement, is a two-time Big Sister and mentor to Maya. The first African American female Sergeant and Lieutenant in Hollywood Police Department, she’s dedicated her career to leadership and service. Selina co-founded Precision Mentoring and Divas Do, supporting young girls’ development and community initiatives. Her passion for mentoring exemplifies her commitment to empowering future generations.

Samara Minichiello, Big Sister to Jahniya, combines her expertise as a Gartner Client Executive with her passion for empowering children. An author of emotional resilience books like The Secret Magic of Your Heart, she volunteers with Women in Distress, Junior Achievement, and global children’s causes. Samara fosters trust, resilience, and positivity through her mentorship, inspiring young minds to overcome challenges and embrace growth.

For over 20 years, Erica Stowers has supported Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County. Matched with her Little Sister, Mollie, in 2002, their bond remains strong even as Mollie, now 32, thrives in Nashville. A Broker Associate with Douglas Elliman, Erica also supports Honor Flight South Florida, Boys and Girls Clubs, and Pace Center for Girls. Her dedication to mentoring and children’s charities continues to leave a lasting impact.

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS

All Members. All Levels:

Annual Membership $250

  • Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Connect and collaborate with a community of like-minded women dedicated to making a difference.
  • Name Recognition: Gain recognition on the Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) website as a supporter of our mission.
  • VIP Access: Enjoy access to the WOV- ONLY VIP area at select BBBS annual events.
  • Fast-Track BIG Application: Experience a VIP fast-track process for becoming a BIG, giving you an easier and quicker route to mentorship.
  • Special Event Pricing: Receive exclusive member pricing for selected BBBS events.
  • Dedicated Liaison: Benefit from personalized support through a dedicated Women on the Verge liaison, ensuring your involvement is as impactful as possible.
  • Volunteer Leadership Roles: Opportunities to take on leadership roles within Women on the Verge committees or event planning, allowing members to contribute more actively and shape the direction of Women on the Verge.
  • Scholarship Selection Committee: Opportunity to be part of the selection committee that reviews the scholarship applications for the WOV scholarship that will be awarded to a deserving graduating senior.

Crown Membership $1000- Exclusive Benefits

  • Crown Pin: Be recognized as a distinguished member with a beautiful crown pin, symbolizing your commitment to the youth in our community.
  • Complimentary Event Entry: Enjoy complimentary entry to all Women on the Verge events throughout the year.
  • Special Recognition at BBBS Events: Recognition as a Crown Member at all BBBS annual events, highlighting your invaluable support.
  • Déjà Vu: Women on the Verge special pricing to attend the BBBS signature event, Déjà Vu (savings of $150 for two guests).

BECOME A MEMBER

DONATE TO THE SCHOLARSHIP

Alyssa Lovitt

Jill Hermann

Jen Klaassens

Samara Minichiello

Cindy Schutt

Erica Stowers

Nicky Tesser

Lorna Walker

Dana Duquesne

Jennifer Homan

Marci Holzer

Melissa Milroy

Elizabeth Spikes

Jane Bolin

Christine Lynn

Laura Berger

Joisse Cordeiro

Jeannette Skawinski

Sheriann Namer

Sabrina Arnold

Gale Butler

Marilyn DeMartini

Selina Hightower

Yvette Martinez

Malena Mendez

Tricia Miller

Lania Rittenhouse

Ines Ross

Karen Tedesco

Stacie Weisman

To become a member or for more information, please call (954) 584-9990 or click the link below.

Youth in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward Program*

100% Graduated from high school
Improved in emotional regulation, social competence, and school connectedness.
99% Stayed out of the juvenile justice system

*Based on our Annual Report 2022