Make a Difference

Me and my little sis, Amy

Putting my passion for fashion aside for a moment, a topic I feel very passionate about is supporting the disadvantaged youth of our world.  A few years ago, while I was living in Sydney, I became part of a year long mentoring program called Sister 2 Sister.  The premise is to match professional women with disadvantaged teen girls who are on the brink of, or in the middle of, going down "the wrong road" and provide them with the necessary coping skills to deal with their hardships.  I am still in touch with my little sister today and while she may think I was a big influence in her life, she was also a big influence in mine.

Last year I was approached by an organization outside of Trader Joe's, you know the one, the one you turn your head and say "no thanks" to.  The not-for-profit organization is Los Angeles Youth Network.  Their mission is to empower abused, neglected and homeless adolescents to become self-sufficient by providing street outreach, food, emergency shelter, transitional apartments and educational enrichment programs in a nurturing and safe environment.  Just a few bucks can provide so much to an adolescent in need.  Make a difference the year:

$25 - ensures a safe bed at night for one youth.
$45 - purchases school supplies for one youth.
$75 - supplies 10 youths with basic toiletries and undergarments for one month.
$150 - feeds one youth for one month.
$500 - provides clothing to all of the youths for an entire month.

You can also help a youth in crisis all year by pledging a monthly pledge option and ensure that LAYN can continue their vital mission to help the homeless youth of Los Angeles. Please go to http://www.layn.org/donate.html for more information.

If money is not something you are comfortable with donating, there are certain material items that are in need.  Please check out the "Wish List" at http://www.layn.org/donate/in-kind.html for details.

There are certain charities that tug at my heart strings and this is one.  I know that each and everyone of you reading this right now can afford at least $25 to reach out and help. If you are not in Los Angeles, reach out to an organization in your home town.

Thank you!