5. Taylor Swift

The Grammy-winning country star recently opened up the final rehearsal of her “Speak Now” world tour to the public in May. Ticket sales were donated to community relief funds in order to aid areas ravaged by the tornados that swept through the South last April. Swift stated that after watching the news, she simply “….wanted to do something for the families affected by the damage.”[MTV.com] The concert, which raised over $750,000, won her the 2011 Do Something Award for best charity concert in August. Swift also made a guest appearance in June with the Black Eyed Peas at “Concert 4 NYC,” which benefitted a charity fighting poverty in the city.

4. Daniel Radcliffe

As if defeating Lord Voldemort weren’t benevolent enough, the young star of the immensely successful “Harry Potter” franchise is a philanthropist as well. Last June, Radcliffe received the “Trevor Project Hero Award” in honor of his support of and inspiration to lesbian, gay, bi, and transgender youth. The Trevor Project, a non-profit organization that offers support for LGBT youth in the form of services like a suicide prevention hotline, wanted to honor Radcliffe, who stated that, “…there’s no reason [LGBT youth] should grow up feeling that they’re in any way different or that their difference should separate them from their peers.” [MTV.com] What a guy…ten points for Gryffindor!

3. Demi Lovato

A singer, songwriter, former Disney channel star and philanthropist, Demi Lovato won two awards at this year’s Do Something Awards function. Partnering up with Clean & Clear Skincare and an organization called “Join the Surge,” Lovato worked to promote and encourage community involvement, political activism, and voting among teens, earning her the Do Something TV Star award. Keeping the philanthropic vibes alive, she even went on to collaborate with Joe Jonas in a performance of their song, “Make a Wave,” that benefited the Disney-sponsored charity, Friends for Change. A group that fosters environmental activism and green initiatives, Lovato and Jonas’ heartfelt performance won them the Do Something Charity Song Award, making Lovato a veritable double threat of selfless “do-goodery.”

2. Justin Bieber

When he’s not winning every musical award known to man, Justin Bieber and his hair can be found giving back to the youth across the country. The recipient of the coveted Do Something Music Artist Award, Bieber beat out fellow philanthropic powerhouses Nick Jonas and Lady Gaga by dedicating a music video to children struggling with illnesses across the globe. The prodigy of pop also works with Pencils of Promise, an organization dedicated to building schools and promoting education in less-developed areas worldwide. He may be young, but it seems that with an unwavering determination to better the lives of youth around the world, unmatched talent, and a haircut the consistency of organic whipped cream, the sky is the limit.

1. Jonas Brothers

Yes, the Jo Bro’s took first place on this list…surprised? Of course not. When it comes to acts of philanthropy, three heads are indeed better than one. Nick, Joe, and Kevin Jonas are the founders of their own charity, the Change for the Children Foundation, which supports programs for children and teens in the endless list of hardships and setbacks they are faced with. Through diabetes awareness, Nick Jonas, afflicted with the disease himself, educates and empowers youth on how to safely and effectively manage, live with, and overcome the daunting ailment. An adamant supporter of the Special Olympics, Joe Jonas works with other community activists to organize events, charities, and competitions for the disabled. From choosing the location to promoting the event, Joe ensures that any disabled child who ever wanted to run, jump, swim, or throw their heart out in defiance of their handicaps can do so. From the community to the voting booth, Kevin Jonas support youth activism, and maintains the idea that the younger generations are the true movers and shakers of this country, with the unified power and foresight to make a difference. Individually, the brothers would make Mother Teresa blush…but together? Now you’re talking about an angelic tri-force of halo-crowned, impossibly wavy-haired saints.

Vivienne Westwood’s Ethical Fashion Africa Collection

Teaming up with the Ethical Fashion Programme, the Dame of Fashion, Vivienne Westwood, has designed a line of bags to support thousands of disadvantaged women in Africa. Each bag is carefully made with recycled materials (like safari tents and roadside banners) in Kenya by women aiming to learn valuable skills to improve their quality of life. While the bags may be a bit of a splurge (the cheapest clutch comes in at around $245), it’s great knowing that the proceeds go directly to these inspirational ladies halfway around the world.

Nicole Miller’s Fair Trade Bracelets

Nicole Miller is known for her elegant-yet-offbeat dresses, but she stepped off the beaten path when designing a collection of woven bangles and bracelets made to empower women in Rwanda. Partnering with non-profit Indego Africa, each bracelet comes with a brief bio of the artisan that designed the bracelet. All profits of the eye-popping accessories go towards furthering the entrepreneurs’ education and improving their work conditions.

Kenneth Cole’s Cano Poncho

Here’s a poncho that’s both trendsetting and brings about social good. 100% of the proceeds of this reversible garb will be donated to Kenneth Cole’s foundation, AWEARNESS. While the organization focuses on tackling many social issues (like rebuilding in Haiti and providing better lives for America’s homeless), the sales of this particular piece benefit The Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR).

Kate Spade’s Hand in Hand Bangles

Kate Spade’s latest bangle designs are both chic and inspirational. Coming in silver, gold and copper, every bracelet is engraved with the phrase, “Hand in hand, there’s strength in numbers.” There’s a lot more to this phrase than may meet the eye. Spade has partnered with Women for Women International in celebration of the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day. 25% of proceeds from the Hand in Hand bangles go towards rebuilding women’s and families’ lives in war-torn countries,

Marc Jacobs’ Aid for AIDS Charity Tee Shirts

With six tee designs, Marc Jacobs is taking a stand against AIDS. All of the profits from this special collection of tees benefit Aid for AIDS, which fights the stigma against HIV and aims to improve the lives of immigrants and people living with HIV/AIDS.

What are some of your favorite fashion-forward products that give back to charity?

Original post: by Jessica Bender at Glamour Gone Good.

Americans want to support companies that pay equal attention to both society and business needs.

Take a look at some of the latest numbers:

71% of consumers think brands/companies spend too much on advertising/marketing and should put more money into good causes.

67% think its no longer enough for corporations to simply give away money to a good cause; they need to integrate good causes into their day-to-day business.

64% would recommend a brand that supports a good cause.

63% want brands to make it easier for them to make a positive difference in the world.

58% are looking for brands to do more than just provide them a product or service.

Source: Edelman’s 2009 goodpurpose study

Based on these numbers, it seems pretty evident that we now live in a world where the pendulum swings in favor of companies that put more weight on being socially conscious and responsible corporate citizens than their competitors.

Think about yourself for a moment.  Do the numbers above reflect your own personal values as a consumer? Are you more likely to support a brand that is visibly aligned with a cause over its competitor, price and quality of both products being equal?

Here’s how some of our favorite beauty brands are responding to this cultural phenomenon:

M.A.C. launched the M.A.C. AIDS Fund to provide grants to programs that serve people affected by HIV and AIDS. 100% of net proceeds from M.A.C.’s ‘VIVA GLAM’ lipsticks benefit the fund.

Sephora launched The Sephora Project to educate and empower women who help make the world a more beautiful place. A percent of proceeds from select products benefit Sephora’s preferred charities.

philosophy has a dedicated “shop for a cause” category of products. 100% of net proceeds from these products benefit the charities listed directly on the product packaging.

Of course, some brands do a better job than others at communicating why they choose to support certain causes or charities. There will always be those that give away much more money to charity each year than others. Some will have consistent campaigns over the years while others will switch it up as they see fit. But, at the end of the day, they are all giving back because they know its what their consumers want to see. It’s becoming increasingly rare to find a beauty brand these days that does not support charity in one form or another. For those brands still out there that managed to miss the memo – it’s time to wake up!

Today’s consumer is much more conscious of the what, where, and why’s of  products they purchase. Because of this, we have seen many corporations and small businesses incorporating Charitable Giving and  an emphasis on sustainability into their everyday business practices. This is no different for Michelle Turnbull, the proprietor of David Family Wines, who recently spoke with Vivanista to discuss how she pairs her passion for philanthropy with her love of wine through David Family Wine.

Tell us a bit about David Family Wines…

I started David Family in 2006, with the goal to create a coveted, collectible brand offering an innovative twist on the traditional wine industry.  Our limited production Pinot Noirs present a complete sensory experience for the modern wine connoisseur.  We work with the industry’s finest grape growers, winemakers and sommeliers to offer a portfolio of three distinctive Pinots reigning from Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County and Anderson Valley. David Family wines are available online at the David Family website at www.davidfamily.com and at select restaurants around the country that tie into our brand’s luxury element.

What is unique about your winery?

I named David Family Wine for my father, as he is my biggest inspiration.  Throughout my corporate career, I always had a passion for wine and an interest in it.  So, I took a part time job at John Walker and Co. to get a hands-on education about wine from some of the best talent and palates in the business.  I think that I am a-typical from the male driven, vineyard-owning, traditional proprietor in more ways than one.  I have a modern outlook to the industry and offer my consumers and collectors new ways to enjoy and experience wine.  I am proud of our industry-first accomplishments and differentiating characteristics.

• Hand stamped, hand affixed leather labels on each bottle. (I label them myself, which is quite a workout, but also of personal importance to me.)
• Proceeds from every bottle benefit Habitat for Humanity, and customers can learn more about the homes they are contributing to by typing in the case number individually stamped on each bottle.
• The 2009 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir is the first wine that Miles drinks in the sequel to Sideways, aptly named Vertical (book released November 2010, movie TBD).
• David Family offers the rare opportunity for Futures sales (a practice most known in international wine regions such as Burgundy, France) with pre-release pricing.

One of the many fantastic things about your winery is its philanthropic focus. When and how did you decide that you wanted to add in a charitable component?

Wine feels like a natural fit for philanthropy. We use wine to celebrate, to commemorate and to build memories. In essence, wine brings us together as family and friends. Why shouldn’t it bring together another family, one which may less fortunate but just as deserving?

We have found our partnership with Habitat for Humanity, a global organization dedicated to building homes for families in need to be the perfect fit for this vision.  Proceeds from every bottle of David Family wine are committed to Habitat’s mission to create homes for families, tying to the company’s core values and name.  A percentage of company profit, product and employee time is donated to the greater San Francisco Bay Area Habitat for Humanity each year. See details here.

What impacted your decision to bring in Habitat for Humanity as your benefactor/charitable partner?

I’m a big believer in Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs.  Food and shelter are the basis of our needs.  Feeling safe and secure offers a true foundation for everything else to grow from.  Everything about David Family is all about the family, and our logo of an Australian home highlights that.  We wanted to ensure that we were giving back to families who may not be able to afford shelter on their own.

How do you support Habitat for Humanity? How much of your proceeds do you donate to Habitat for Humanity?

David Family’s contribution we make each year varies based on Habitat’s needs. Our partnership is formed on the basis of providing profit and product. Some years they require more product for fundraising efforts, other years, more financial. We try to adapt where we can to help however we can.

What external resources have you used in your branding efforts?

We have a variety of branding efforts in our overall marketing campaign.  We do proactive media outreach, offer tastings with our collectors, get involved in events that make sense for the brand and are utilizing the power of the Internet for a dialogue about the wine experience.  We have a Wine Shop tab on the David Family Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/#!/davidfamily for collectors connecting with friends and business associates about their wine experiences.  Through the Shop Tab, users are just a click away from purchasing David Family’s portfolio of Pinot Noirs through the website, www.DavidFamily.com.

Where do you envision the wine industry going? How do you hope to pioneer the movement?

Wine has been an industry full of intimidation, mystery and at times, snobbery, in a traditional sense. The modern wine connoisseur of today doesn’t respond to those things, they make informed decisions about everything from ski goggles to a new car. A wine purchase is no different. They want to know the intimate details of the wine, the maker, the region, the science behind it, the creative enjoyment and more. It’s time for the wine world to open up and I intend to do everything in my professional power to help those efforts. It’s time for the industry to stop forcing people to ‘spectate’ and instead, ‘participate!’

What is the best charitable event that you or David Family has been to/been a part of?

We would have to say Habitat for Humanity.  We are committed to this cause.

Learn more about how how you can donate to Habitat for Humanity by Purchasing David Family Wine

You can also give back to by Volunteering, Donating or getting in Contact with Habitat for Humanity.

Describe your upcoming Spring into Fall fashion show/fundraiser… What makes the event unique?

In my 12 years of being in San Francisco,  I have not encountered  a purely Eco-Couture Fashion show of this Magnitude. People are constantly asking “Where did you get that (Dress, Outfit etc)?” So I begun selecting some of my favorite designer pieces out of my closet, and decided to create a fashion show! We then begun creating what I hope to be the start of bringing REAL FASHION to San Francisco, by way of local and sustainable designers.

Why did you choose The Coral Reef Alliance as your benefactor?How does the event align with CRA’s overall mission and contribution to the community?

I really became ,what I call with great pride, a “Greenie” when I began to Scuba Dive with my husband. So when I created ‘Spring into Fall, it seemed only natural to choose CRA as our benefactor. Also, The Coral Reef Alliance is the only International Organization seeking to protect one of our most prized possessions on the planet, Coral Reefs.

Will there be any surprise guests? Celebrities?

We  have sold a few Front Row seats to Stylists, looking for new talent. As it is my first year with this production, so I didn’t want to get anyone’s hopes too high, but I have a feeling it is going to be talked about for quite some time, in fact we already have several designers interested in next years show, I am amazed!

Who are some of the designers who will showcase?

Not in any order of favoritism,  you can expect fabulous designs from Dolliemop, or a Miss G Design for any occasion, some intracately, and emotionally, designed Rebbecca Bruce for that next Gala, or so every chic California designed New York look from Sequoia & Gita, and who doesn’t want an itty bitty waist and some curvy hips by the decadent Dark Garden Corsetry, or if you are in the mood to impress try some amazing Wearable Art by Gelereh Alam, or if a Sleek Rega lookl, is what you are after, then be ready for Sarah Sheppard when you are strolling around at some fundraiser. And, maybe a tie in with our Charity The Coral Reef Alliance, you’ll have a peek a some Sexy Swimmer for the next time your at Fiji at the Jean Michelle Cousteau Resort diving on one of CORALS protected Reefs.

Will items be available for purchase after the show’s conclusion?

Before the show, you can  find some beautiful Vintage items at the Coral Reef Boutique,. Nearby, make sure to stop off for some some signature cocktails by our Sponsor Skinny Bob Sleek Chic’s Coctail, or some of our Eco.Love wine the first Certified Carbon Neutral Wines.  You  can  also wander through each designer’s store to sift through past seasons looks including ready wear for all occasions.  After the show if you saw something you just couldn’t live with out, our lovely Models will be showcasing the designs up close. All artists are available to discuss the Garments shown to you on the runway.

Is this an open event? If so, how much are tickets, and what percentage of proceeds will go to the Coral Reef Alliance.?

This is an open event, however tickets are going faster than predicted. When I sent out the Invite, Clauda Ross our Eco-Chic PR Agent sent out the Press Release, and our Media Sponsor mentioned it on Red Carpet Bay Area. Tickets range from $20.00 to $150.00 with two in between priced seats. I am donating a set amount to the Coral Reef Alliance, or CORAL for short, all artist are donating 5% of their sales, and viewers have the option to donate, if so moved, with an envelope provided in the Program.

What types of items will be incorporated into your live auction?

Well, as I mentioned before, we are setting up Boutiques with the Foremost being CORAL’s Botique. So expect some Fabulous Vintage From Our Sponsor Ricky’s Fabulous Treasures, and anything from past seasons that designers what to show so you can see their diversity.

Who are your event sponsors? How will they add value to the event?

We are still seeking sponsors ALWAYS but our support has been wonderful we have had Donations from our fellow Lovely Greenie Zem Joaquin with ecofabulous.com when she promotes this event, Eco.Love wines, Epi-Center Med Spa, the Red Box, Red Carpet Bay Area, Vivanista, and Ricky’s Exceptional Treasures. Hopefully, there will be more to come for Goodie Bags for ALL 303 attendees.

Will there be a social component before/after the fundraiser?

Absolutely our Red Carpet entrance will have Social Photographer Drew Altizer shooting pictures of our guests. Also, Red Carpet Bay Area will be doing Social Interviews for a “Sizzile” on KRON 4 so look for the event if you can’t make it there.

Why do you think Sustainable Fashion and Fundraising go together so well?

I think Global Green started the Movement a few years back at The Bently Reserve, with their Eco-Chic Fashion Shows. And I would like to continue the effort with my events in the future. This is just what we have to do! One step at a time to help save and protect and revive our Planet for Future Generations to come!

What’s your favorite current fashion trends?

I am at a loss, I wouldn’t call my self Trendy, perhaps but Classic, in my tastes I always buy with the future in mind always conscious to Reuse (Vintage is a great start!) Reduce (sharing fashion with other Charities like Dress For Success) and of course Recycle (I like to have a Taylor or one of my Designer friends re purpose a garment).

What are some of the inspirations behind your current jewelry line?

Well what really inspires me and often my clients are the properties of the elements used in my work. What the elements of the Earth can do to help you or inspire you. For example, how a certain stone worn every day can balance the Chakras, or just dress up your look with the beauty of all natural ethically sourced gem stones and 100% recycled 18kt Gold.

What has been one of the biggest challenges in planning this event so far?

Communication! Boy in our world of technology, we should be able to Communicate, Communicate, Communicate, that has been our biggest challenge with over 100 people working on this Show! But as it rolls closer to the event it starts running like a locomotive. I really could not have done this Show with out my amazing Staff I want to thank them for all their hard work and putting up with me when I’m a stress case!!!

Chair Name: Amber Marie Bently

Event Name: Spring into Fall

Date of Event: 3/11/2011

Charity/Nonprofit beneficiary: Coral Reef Alliance

ONE HOUR BEFOREHAND

Me, Tiffany & her father in happier times

I’m having a tiff with Tiffany.  And it will take more than a blue box with a white ribbon to make it right.

I’m trying to get out the door and my (usually) beloved twenty-something daughter Tiffany has left my new nude Louboutin stilettos under her desk at her new job.  I don’t mind her borrowing my things, mind you, and occasionally I borrow hers which usually had once been mine. Don’t get me wrong, I love having her living back at home but she’s got to start asking before mining through my shoe collection!

I picked those shoes out special for the occasion; they make me look taller, slimmer, YOUNGER. (Nude elongates the leg, you know, which is good for those of us who are elongated in the tooth…)

Okay, breathe, Vivian, remember this isn’t going to ruin your evening, this is just a little stepped-on toe in the cha-cha of life.

That’s it, I’ll wear Tiffany’s ballroom dance competition shoes! They are gold, they go with everything, and they won’t hurt my feet when Matt steps on them.

Matt (L) and a couple of his friends

Who’s Matt, you ask?   My old drop-dead gorgeous high school flame with a body to die for who, unfortunately, has joined the other team.  And I’m not talking high school football, here. He’s always been dreamy in a Steve McQueen meets Fred Astaire kind of way – albeit an even more enthusiastic dancer. Cha-cha-cha.

Is that a text on my phone?  Oh heck, it’s Sukie the Reunion Chair (and former Prom Queen) calling. (She probably broke the zipper on her prom dress, the one she is wearing “for fun” — to the reunion.) Worse, she says the photographer just cancelled, and I’m supposed to find another one RIGHT NOW. Why does something always happen at the last minute when you plan a big event? And why am I the one always expected to fix it?  Because I’m good at thinking on my (gold-shod) feet and finding a way to make it a positive?  Yes, that must be it.

Okay, run back into house and grab digital camera. Check.  I’ll stand at the gym door and get candids as alum walk in.

Call Matt and have him bring his camera, too – he can do the dance floor shots. Check check.

Call (dweeby) high school principal and have him round up a kid from the school paper to come and do photojournalistic stuff – it might be interesting to have a high school perspective on a high school reunion… why didn’t I think of that sooner? Brilliant checkmark!

Oh, and swing by drugstore to pick up a dozen disposable cameras to put on the tables. We’ll make photography part of every table’s activities. Calm, quick thinking means crisis averted. I’m a shoe-in for most brilliant committee member ever! Cha cha checkmate!

THE REUNION

Disco Divas on the Dance Floor

I’m here.

At last!

And I’m having a blast – Matt and I are tearing up the dance floor.  I’d forgotten just how much fun disco music really is.

I wonder if I should have disco music for my hospital charity ball? You know, the one I am CHAIRING in thirteen weeks, three days and twenty two hours?  That’s why I joined the high school reunion committee in the first place, to learn a few do’s and don’ts for my little extravaganza.  And boy have I learned A LOT. That’s the way – uh huh uh huh – I like it.

-          DO: Be organized.  Have extra copies of guest lists and extra name tags. (Misspellings happen, and people bring new dates they didn’t register.) Acknowledge your committee. Share the thanks. Expect something to go wrong. Be nice to the support staff who have to work while you get to go to the party.  Enjoy the evening.

-          DON’T: Be like Sukie the Reunion Chair and trip old friends to get into every damn photo of the night.  Don’t scowl at the waiter when they run out of filet and give you the vegetarian option instead – it’s not his fault.  Don’t get drunk and say things that may have made sense in high school but sound crackers thirty years later.  Don’t just sit there when nobody is bidding at the live auction – put your hand up, even if you donated the damn item. And DON’T EVER talk about your fabulous 25-year marriage and then ‘sweetly’ inquire about my ex husband again, Sukie!

THE MORNING AFTER

It’s confirmed, Matt travels on both buses.

That good night kiss was so yummy that I’m adoring his sculpted body laying next to mine.  Who would have guessed he could be so out of practice and just pick it back up like riding a bicycle?   Oh la la, I feel so modern.

But I do have to get moving with my charity ball coming up.  We’re in pretty good shape despite my skipping out this last week to help with all the final details of the reunion.  I only have 78 emails to return but if there were an emergency everyone on the committee knew they could call me on cell.

The ballroom is in contract and, nicely, we saved money since no décor was required.  We have a partial underwriter for the dinner and hopefully one of those emails will be the good news that we have a sponsor for the Benefactor Pre-Party. The Junior Committee is all set (headed by my beloved daughter Tiffany) who are bringing the younger set for dessert and dancing after the dinner. I really think I’m going to suggest disco – that Reunion was way too much fun.  I wonder if the Bee Gees are available? Maybe I could afford them with all the money I saved on décor.

Staying Alive! Still?

The YPOs, as I prefer to call them, won’t generate much money but they can generate lots of buzz and develop a new generation of donors.  I checked Facebook on my iPhone at the Reunion last night and it looks like they already have over 100 RSVPs so far and we’re still 3 months out.  I’m smelling Sell-Out!

The Save The Date cards are dropping later today.

I’m in pretty darn good shape.  I think I’ll roll back over and snuggle with Matt.

————————————————————————————————————————————–

Photos courtesy of Flickr:

Patricia Figueira

Margot.capespine

Curious_Retro_Rebel

diepuppenstubensammlerin

bigyahu

Julianne Hough

This annual fashion show promotes the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s Heart Truth Campaign. The Heart Truth Campaign aims to make women more aware of the danger of heart disease. Heart disease is currently the number one killer among women.

Alison Sweeny

To raise awareness among women, celebrities took to the runway clad in red dresses, which stand as the symbol for Heart Truth’s campaign. The Red Dress is the national symbol to encourage women to empower themselves by taking action to protect their heart health and to actively lower their risk for heart disease.

Suzanne Somers

Marking the beginning of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, the Red Dress Fashion Show featured celebrity models including: Julianne Hough, Audrina Patridge, Denise Richards, Dita Von Teese, Guiliana Rancic, Eve, Patti LaBelle, and Dania Ramirez.

Dania Ramirez

The event also featured a performance by pop sensation Natasha Bedingfield.

Natasha Bedingfield

To further support the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, some of the participating designers are auctioning off the red dresses designed for the show online at Clothes Off Our Backs.

See Additional Event Images Below.

Patti LaBelle

Cat Deely

Guiliana Rancic

Laila Ali

Katrina Bowden

Garcelle Beauvais

Dita Von Teese

Camila Alves

Linda Gray

Eve

Denise Richards

Audrina Patridge

Natasha Bedingfield

All photos courtesy of Rob Rich

See the rest of the photos at our flickr or facebook page!

Defining Girls Setting Goals

The event began with radio personality and Oprah Winfrey Network comedian, Faith Alpher opening the show.

The event was hosted by Defining Girl. Defining Girl is the non-profit creation of Twisted Silver designer, Deb Mitchell, who feels drawn to helping young girls navigate through a confusing world. Deb took this opportunity to communicate  the importance of kindness and encouraged the young girls present to make a conscious decision not to follow the crowd.

Jazmin & Audience

After Deb spoke to the crowd, she introduced Jazmin Whitley. At the young age of of 22, not only has Jazmin earned the title of youngest designer to participate in NY Fashion Week, she regularly styles some of Hollywood’s hottest celebrities and starred in MTV’s House of Jazmin. At the event, Jazmin inspired the crowd by discussing her early passion for designing, as well as sharing some critical fashion tips. By sharing her own stories, Jazmin was able to help the girls realize that their aspirations can be achieved.

Jazmin, Girls, & Sprinkles

Following the workshop, each girl had the chance for a photo opportunity with Jazmin, received delectable Sprinkles cupcakes, and left the event with a bag of swag. As they said their goodbyes, the girls were invited to a sample sale of Jazmin’s designs at the nearby OrgHipChick boutique.

See Additional Event Images Below.

Jazmin & Envoys

Jazmin, Deb, & Sprinkles Cupcakes

Defining Girls & Jazmin

Jac & Jazmin

Jazmin & the Interns

Sprinkles & Twisted Silver SWAG

OrgHipChick

All photos courtesy of Jefra Star Linn

The Celebration: The Plaza hosts the “POSH Tea” at The Palm Court honoring the founders of Lighthouse International and welcomes their descendants to kick-off the POSH sale that will be held for the first time at The Plaza in May, 2011

The Cause: Honoring Emily and Edith Holt, who founded Lighthouse International in 1905, descendants of many of the families who were active supporters of the Lighthouse in the early years, gathered at The Plaza for the POSH Tea to honor the founders and kick-off the Spring POSH sale.

For the first time POSH featured thousands of new and gently worn designer clothing and accessories will be held at The Plaza from May 11 to May 16, 2011.

About POSH: Fashionable philanthropy was present from the beginning of Lighthouse. Borrowing $400 from their dress allowance, Winifred and Edith Holt started the Lighthouse which is dedicated to fighting vision loss through prevention, treatment and empowerment.  POSH is New York’s leading fashion fundraiser, offering new and gently worn, vintage designer clothing, shoes and accessories for women, men and children. Funds raised at the POSH sale support Lighthouse International’s nonprofit mission.  For the past 40 years, POSH has featured such top designers as Carolina Herrera, Christian Lacroix, Douglas Hannant, Oscar de la Renta, Ralph Lauren, Manolo Blahnik, Coach, Burberry and Nicole Miller Theory, Tracey Reese, among others.

The Credentials: Attendees included Elisa Miller-Out, Emily Frick, Mr. Tom Gimbel,  Whitney Douglas, Victoria Donaldson, Sam Hopkins,  Lisa Pulitzer Love , Lisa Bailey Musgravem and Mrs. Douglas Auchincloss. Other guests include Amy Fine Collins, Muffie Potter Aston Hamish Bowles, Bruce and Juliana T. Gilbert, Jo Hallingby, Marylyn Maklin, Helen Marx, Marjorie Reed Gordon, Jean Shafiroff and Nell Yperifanos.

Also, see details for Lighthouse International’s POSH Palm Beach 2011 Gala Dinner on Feb 23.

See event photos below.

Somers Farkas, Carole Holmes McCarthy, Mark Ackerman

Hope Kessler, Lauren Roberts

Marc Rosen, Jean Shafiroff, Tom Gimbel

Somers Farkas, Marc Rosen

Atmosphere

Maude Peters, Louisa Peters

Atmosphere

Mark Ackerman, Alexander Peters

All photos: Courtesy of Rob Rich

But we are in awe of all the photos!  The beauty in the eyes of those individuals smiling in the dozens of photos about people could melt hearts of even the most hardened individuals.  The power of the messages spoke louder than any force could.  Every single one told a story and contributed to the larger montage that shouted why we all give back.

We will be publishing an e-Book of all the photos with the authors’ description and the benefiting organizations shortly.  All photo finalists will be published in the e-book as well as a glossy hard-bound coffee table book that will be available for order. In addition to getting a $1,000 donation to their favorite charity, the grand prizewinner will be featured on the cover of the book. The top three vote getters will receive a complimentary copy of the book. If you would like a hard copy of the Finalist photo album that will be mailed to you, please click here and we will take your name and let you know once they have been produced.

In the meantime join our movement to show the world that every person has a story that is worthwhile especially when it heralds volunteers who contribute their time, energy, intellect, money and love to the causes they are most passionate about.  Share your photo(s) in our Flickr pool.

Top Vote getter – Awarded a $1,000 Donation! 

The Human Soul On Fire: I was a prostitute. Now I am in the first grade. [More than Me Foundation, Inc]

 First runner up, closely behind with amazing support!

Hearts in Unity in Tanzania - Feeding the orphan and at-risk children of Tanzania, Africa. Making a difference, changing lives, one precious child at at time. [Hearts in Unity]

Second most votes!

Technology for Mali, Africa & the Developing World - Our mission at EOS is to bring appropriate technology to the developing world, and to bring smiles to faces like these in Mali, Africa. [EOS International]

Third most votes!

Lock of the Love - Köln / Germany. [tuna akcay]

Finalists:

What would you buy with $50? From Ugandan student to New York young professional. [Givology]

I scored! When given opportunity, we all have the ability. [Karate Can Do Foundation]

The Journey of a Homeless Woman. Sharing a personal story about the journey of being a homeless woman. [Glide Foundation]

BookEnds creates readers and leaders! A student leader shares a new book with a student reader. [BookEnds]

Philanthroteens give a High Five! Giving a High Five and sending a girl in a developing country to school is this easy with Girl Up! [Girl Up]

The Power of Their Ideas and Our Support - With water, all life is made possible. The people of Cambodia express their thanks to GO for bringing them lasting change in their lives. [Groundwork Opportunities]

Giving Wings to Love! Sharing love, food, water, and hats to oprhans in Haiti. [Airline Ambassadors International]

What if You were Homeless? Beyond holding signs along a busy road on a blistery winter day to solicit donations for local homeless shelters, these teens slept outside in boxes to bring about awareness; talk about a day in the life of another’s shoes. [Alternatives Incorporated]

Help the Himalayan Children of Nepal - If children are provided with the tools to be educated and to discover their core strengths, they will learn to fly, prosper, and educate/help others. [Shree Mangal Dvip School]

Taylor in Africa “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” [Josephine Fogg School in Lusaka]

Memories…The local volunteers touched the wood panel of the Peace Primary School, remembering when they used to be students within the building. [Givology]

Water Filtration System Built for Magugu, Tanzania. Women gathering water in Magugu, Tanzania [Outreach Africa]

We are the World! Nancy at tent camp during concert for kids. [Airline Ambassadors International]

Take My Hand… A moment of love during the Morning Glory Ranch’s Annual fundraiser… Volunteers & the Children they help join hands in a dance of joy and life. [Morning Glory Ranch]

Designer Jazmin Whitley, Li Cari and MTV’s House of Jazmin motivated girls to find their inner voice and create their own paths. [Defining Girl]

Be homeless elsewhere. A homeless man is stopped and questioned by the police. [Children's Hospital]

Joe’s Dream - Joe’s dream was to help others achieve their dreams. When Joe passed away our organization decided to go to Kenya and build a clean water well for the Masai Community. This is us laying in the hole we dug, proudly together. [The Ella Baker Center for Human Rights]

The smallest scout – One of my nieces’ first days with the scouts. [Scouts]

Creating Confidence, Passing on a Passion, Gaining a Friend. This is a photo of me and a member of the Eastside Dream Elite cheer squad for special needs adults that I coached. [Eastside Dream Elite Special Needs Cheer Team]

Volunteer Works with Public School Kids to create a mural. Volunteer Works with Public School Kids to create a mural. [Learning Leaders]

Take it to Heart – The Alpha Phi Executive Office staff supports its philanthropy, Women’s Heart Health, by going red for National Wear Red Day! [The Alpha Phi Foundation]

Belles of the Ball - Project GLam making young girls wishes, to attend their prom, come true! [WGIRLS NYC]

2010 Revlon Run Walk! WGIRLS participating for the second year in a row in the 2010 Revlon Run Walk. [WGirls]

Sebastian Meets the Jonas Brothers “I drank all my milk so I could come and when the doctors give me shots I’m really brave.” Joe Jonas: “Bravest guy I’ve met.” [Make-a-Wish Foundation]

Pretty In Pink! Providing a girl with the perfect dress so that she is able to attend her prom. [WGirls NYC]

Run Walk. WGIRLS pose with Jimmy Fallon at the 2009 Revlon Run Walk. [WGIRLS NYC]

Pioneers and Indians. Dedicated to the devoted volunteers. [Lynn-Heidelberg Historical Society]

No Limits! Walk N’ Roll to raise money and celebrate life without limits for people with disabilities. [United Cerebral Palsy]

A Place for Positivity - Philanthropy empowers children. At camp, children empower each other with encouragement & friendship. SCOPE sends children in need to camp. [SCOPE]

Children enjoying the newly spruced up playground - Every year, NPC organizes Play Day-an event to highlight a playground in need, bring people to together and kick off our Playgroun Initiative. [Neighborhood Parks Council]

Investing in Hope – Supporters of Taller San Jose help walk young lives out of poverty and into the workforce. 89% of Taller San Jose students are still employed, one year after graduation. [Taller San Jose]

My inspiration - My never smoking late mother inspired Lung Cancer Circle of Hope, a nonprofit committed to creating awareness of lung cancer. [Lung Cancer Circle of Hope]

Philoptochos – “Friend to the Poor” [Philoptochos]

Emptying Wheelchairs – Christopher Reeve’s empty wheelchair represents what he always fought for – empty wheelchairs. [Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation]

“Twist for Hope” *photo by Faern Faernworks - Participants tuned out the city and into their souls at City of Hope’s first annual Yoga for Hope in San Francisco’s Union Square; a fundraiser to benefit research, treatment and education of cancer, diabetes and HIV/AIDS at City of Hope, a nonprofit biomedical center dedicated to the prevention and cure of life threatening diseases. [City of Hope's Yoga for Hope]

The joy of Paulus and his family in Miwai, Kenya-depsite difficult economic circumstances, was aboslutely infectious! [Starfish One By One]

The Bison Hug. [ThinkCure!]

In The Eyes Of The Beholder - Evidence that angel do watch over us. [Associated Black Charities in Maryland]

Together we are stronger! - Together we will rise up because while we are strong, together we are stronger! You see a girl, we see the future! [United Nations Foundation Girl Up Campaign]

HAPPINESS - Every Child Deserves to Be Happy! [CASA of Adams and Broomfield Counties]

FAMILY - Celebrate Generations!!! [CASA of Adams and Broomfield Counties]

Handicapped couple awaits philanthropy – Ritual for charity linked to Piety. [Helpage India]

Love - Love is in the air… [Being Human Foundation]

Mayra, 16, and Her Mother, Whom She’s Inspired - Through the mentoring she receives from non-profit Starfish One by One, Mayra inspired her mother to consider future family planning. [She's The First]

Mabia in Bangladesh – CARE is helping female farmers across the globe to grow food locally and support their families. Credit: 2005 Phil Borges/CARE. [CARE]

Loverboy before he was adopted! – Here’s Loverboy hamming it up before being taken home at our pet adoption event. [Celebrity Catwalk]

Merry Go Round Ranch - Love all around here! [Merry Go Round Foundation for Youth]

Street - Rescue the pets in Belarus. [Mihail Kopychko]

I love Sprinkles - I love Sprinkles and what they do for the community locally, nationally and globally. [Lucille Packard Children's Hospital]

Alaskan woman living with AIDS shows why she wants a cure. - Why I want a cure for AIDS—to watch my grandson grow up. [AIDS Policy Project]

GIRLS WHO ROCK – Elizabeth David, a Kisa Scholar in Tanzania, attends her first day of class. [GIRLS WHO ROCK]

Giving Back to Those In Need – American Idol Season 7 finalist Luke Menard met with children currently undergoing cancer treatment through Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. [Race for Hope, D.C. (David Cook's Team)]

Kicking Cancer Foundation - Who are you kicking for? [Kicking Cancer Foundation]

Blondes vs. Brunettes: Tackling Alzheimer’s Disease – Blondes and Brunettes battle it out on the gridiron to raise money and awareness for the Alzheimer’s Association. [Alzheimer's Association]

A way of life - If freedom in exile it is, freedom it shall be. [Adventure Ashram]

High Five - A Dreams for Kids participant receives a high five from her volunteer coach after a tennis play—-the spirit of this moment characterizes the Extreme Recess experience of sports as an empowering and life-changing opportunity for at-risk youth and those with disabilities. [Dreams for Kids DC]

Happiness is… – A KEEN athlete having fun at a sports session. [KEEN]

Kindness – Cuddling cousins bonding. [Cancer Research UK]

Restoring Dignity – Fistula patients in Niamey, Niger, wait for fistula repair surgery. EngenderHealth’s Fistula Care project transforms women’s lives by increasing access to fistula prevention and treatment. Obstetric fistula is a devastating childbirth injury that afflicts millions of women and girls around the world. [EngenderHealth]

Children giving back to children – Children delivering $300 in coins and small bills raised through a fundraiser for Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation for Haiti relief. [Miami Children's Hospital Foundation]

Accomplished – Bringing support and stability to the future of our community. [Girls on the Run - Baton Rouge Chapter]

One - One hand can make all the difference in the world. [The Village for Families and Children, Connecticut]

The Real Elves! Wrapping presents for 500 children at Harlem Hospital for our Hope for the Holidays event. [WGirls NYC]

GirlUp Pep Rally in DC. Teen girls explain to the audience the importance of helping girls in developing countries. [GirlUp]

I’m seven! Enthusiastic young photo “ham” in Cape Town Township day care. [Youth Homes, Inc., Walnut Creek, CA]

The Joy of Cultural Exchange! A shared day of smiles, energy, and culture. [Friendship Ambassadors Foundation: Ecuador Service Trip]