Empowerment is Empowering

My world is changing and improving every day I wake up. Being a leader for B.I.G. (www.believeinspiregrow.com) is the perfect match for what I do with my Silpada business. When I was in Atlanta this week, I was able to share my Silpada boutique with 30 women who came together by invitation from my dear college friend, Randi. She was involved in a project for a Self Expression and Leadership program through Landmark Education. I know how important that was to her because 3 years ago when I was in the program, my project involved Silpada women from around the country who helped me raise money for Celiac Disease awareness. The women supported me by donating a portion of their proceeds to the two organizations that helped me realize and deal with my Celiac Disease diagnosis. It was an incredible accomplishment and learning experience for me.

When Randi told me about her project, that she wanted to bring lots of women together for a girlfriends evening; people from all parts of her life, to just enjoy time with each other while benefiting an important cause-empowering other women through Dress for Success, I offered to be part.

We all went around the room and introduced ourselves. Since I had already been introduced by Randi regarding our relationship and my Silpada business, I felt the need to expand on B.I.G. and what happens when a room full of businesswomen get together. I offered anyone who wanted to learn more about bringing B.I.G. to Atlanta to let me know. I hope I can make a BIG dfference. 

I wanted to support Randi and wanted to use my Silpada to help with her efforts. Sandy, the director for Dress for Success Atlanta spoke to us about the organization; that women needing to go back to work sometimes has never been in a work environment before and needs the simplest of support. One area that struck me was how to wear a bra that fits and supports correctly so the women feel confident wearing professional clothing.

Showing women how to be stylish for a first or second interview, how to pull themselves together professionally isn't something that everyone is aware of; especially those who haven't been to work or back to work in years. Those women who have experienced trauma in their life, either by abuse, domestic violence or being a single mom with no support systems.

I learned that Dress for Success has multiple programs to offer women the support to be empowered to take the next steps in their lives. Being in a room filled with women was empowering just because everyone had something to add to the discussions. How each person seemed to be involved with making a difference in others lives.

With the ladies purchasing from my Silpada boutique, I am able to donate $405 worth of jewelry to Dress for Success. Jewelry is part of completing an outfit; giving more confidence from the inside out. I have offered to come back to Atlanta to similar or different fundraising, women empowerment events and anything where I can make a difference. I look forward to collaborating more with Dress for Success Atlanta (and others) and other organizations that empower women. This of course, is in addition to the other charities, all of which are important to the lives of others, women, men and children. How empowered do you think I feel?