Thursday, September 25, 2008

Styling NYC to Make an Impact in the World

Part of what makes my work so exciting to me is knowing that I am making an impact in peoples lives.  At the start, it was my clients and myself.  Both parties walked away with a sense of accomplishment and happiness.  About 6 months after I started, I realized that I needed to do something more.

I have a strong desire to help people in need.  When I was 17, I went to Brazil and saw the plight of street children.  I met them, played with them, heard their stories, and then cried like a baby when I returned to my cushy life in the U.S. Once I was home, I raised money and awareness for an organization working with Brazilian street children.  That experience was the start of something that would be woven into my way of life.  Giving.  Whether it's time, money, hugs, laughter, a listening ear, big or small.  A desire to create the ripple effect that happens when you get outside of yourself and simply give. 

My sister had a similar outlook and started a giving program for her small business in Orlando, FL.  (if you live in Orlando, you really must contact me to get her cleaning company info! her services are unmatched!) I looked at her example of giving and knew that I could do the same with my business. I realized this was the piece that was missing from my business.  

So, I began my search for an organization that met my criteria:  a small (read: grass roots) organization making a big impact in the lives of women around the world.   I found exactly what I was looking for in SowHope!  This amazing organization provides wellness, education and economic opportunities to disadvantaged women around the world. I met with the director and discussed ways that I could get involved.  From providing food, to providing education to buying cows, my clients and I are making a difference with our financial gifts!  

How this works:  I give 5%  of all monies received for services to SowHope.  In addition, I challenge my clients to match my gift of 5% to make it a total of 10%.   

I love knowing that every time I meet a new client and work on their home, I've tossed another little pebble into the water.  The ripple starts.  


No comments: