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What is the Little Black Dress Initiative?

The Little Black Dress Initiative (LBDI) is a poverty awareness and fundraising campaign that underscores the Junior League of Columbia’s mission to end the cycle of poverty in the Midlands.

Each participant wears one black dress for five days to illustrate the effects poverty can have on a woman’s access to resources, confidence, and opportunities. Or, if a black dress doesn’t fit the participant’s lifestyle, she may wear some variation of a black ensemble throughout the initiative
(e.g. black scrubs, black skort with blacktop, etc.).

Participants will receive an LBDI button to wear each of the five days and will spread the word
about the campaign through social media using #JLCLBDI #AskMeAboutMyDress

Why is this campaign necessary?

The citizens of Columbia and the surrounding Midlands of South Carolina are increasingly suffering from food insecurity and homelessness. Columbia ranks 127 out of 235 South Carolina cities with a poverty rate of 22.9%. The poverty rate across the state of South Carolina is 17.2%, meaning Columbia has a higher-than-average percentage of residents below the poverty line when compared
to the rest of the state.

The JLC LBDI will help raise awareness and funds to support those who need assistance most by highlighting poverty in the Midlands. JLC will use the money raised to fund JLC community programs, improving communities through effective action.

When does the LBDI begin?
This year’s campaign runs from March 9-13, but you can start donating today! Find participating members you’d like to support and donate to their campaigns —no amount is too small! Donate here.

Who can participate?
Only JLC members can raise funds for LBDI, but friends and family can participate by donating to the cause or posting in a black dress/black suit with a member!

How do I donate?
Donate by visiting the JLC LBDI campaign page. Find participating members you’d like to support and donate to their campaigns.
Thank you for your support of LBDI and the JLC! If you would like to make a JLC donation during any other week of the year, please click here.