The Little Black Dress Initiative: Raising Awareness and Making an Impact in Lafayette

Junior League of Lafayette is gearing up for its highly anticipated Little Black Dress Initiative (LBDI), taking place from December 8-14, 2024. This unique event aims to raise awareness about the critical issues faced by women and children in our community while showcasing the League’s impactful programs and initiatives.

What is the Little Black Dress Initiative?

The Little Black Dress Initiative is more than just an opportunity to wear a chic, timeless wardrobe staple; it is a visual statement about the challenges women and children in our community face every day. During this week-long event, Members of Junior League of Lafayette will wear black dresses or outfits to spark conversations and raise awareness about the League’s community programs.

Each day, participants will share stories and insights from Junior League initiatives, emphasizing how they make a positive difference in Lafayette. Through storytelling and social media outreach, the initiative seeks to educate the public on how they can help make a difference by supporting local programs that uplift those in need.

Community Engagement Through Action

The Little Black Dress Initiative encourages local engagement, and it is not just about raising awareness – it is about inspiring action. Through a dedicated social media campaign, Junior League Members will highlight several of the League's key community programs, including:

· Diaper Bank: Providing essential items to families in need

· EmpowHER.: Providing period supplies to women and girls in Lafayette Parish

· Happy Wheels: Delivering comfort to hospitalized children and their families

The campaign will also invite individuals to join the cause and contribute to these life-changing programs by participating in local events and supporting Junior League's ongoing efforts.

Give Back Events: Shop, Dine, and Support

To further support the Little Black Dress Initiative, several local businesses are hosting giveback events, where a percentage of sales will benefit the League’s programs:

Maven Womenswear Boutique Shopping Event

· 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Sunday, December 8, 2024

· Enjoy shopping at Maven Womenswear Boutique, where 20% of all purchases made during this time will be donated to the Little Black Dress Initiative.

SoLou Brunch – Special Drink Fundraiser

· Beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 8, 2024

· Join us for a delicious brunch at SoLou and enjoy the “Little Blackberry Lemon Drop” specialty cocktail. 30% of the sales from this drink will go toward the initiative.

Dave & Buster’s Family Day

· 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 14, 2024

· Bring the whole family out to Dave & Buster’s and enjoy some fun while giving back. When you mention Junior League of Lafayette to your server (at the table—not at kiosks), 20% of your purchase will be donated to the Little Black Dress Initiative.

A Commitment to Solidarity and Change

“The Little Black Dress Initiative is more than just wearing a dress; it represents solidarity and a commitment to making a difference in our community,” says Jackie Marks-Rollins, Chair of the LBDI for Junior League of Lafayette. “We invite everyone to join us in this movement, to learn more about our programs, and to explore how they can get involved.”

By participating in the LBDI, whether through social media, attending events, or spreading the word, you are helping Junior League of Lafayette continue its Mission.

How You Can Get Involved

The Little Black Dress Initiative is an open invitation for the entire Lafayette community to take part in supporting the League's transformative work. To learn more about the initiative and how you can participate, visit Junior League of Lafayette's official website: juniorleagueoflafayette.com/lbdi.

Join the movement, wear your black dress or outfit with purpose, and help us create a stronger, more supportive community for women and children in Lafayette. Together, we can make a difference.