Recently in Snob Charities Category

Do you believe in fate? I do. A couple of years ago I contacted Dress for Sucess (DFS) and offered my services to possibly start a subdivision within their organization for bag donations. I'd hoped to tie in our notoriety in bags with charities so they could benefit from our relationships with bag designers. I couldn't get in touch with anyone who had the authority to start this undertaking and it's been on the back of my mind ever since. Then this past Fall, while interviewing Bobbi Brown, I mentioned my desire to work with Dress for Success but had trouble getting to the right people. Bobbi grinned and said, "I know who to contact"-- and immediately called Joi Gordon, the CEO/Director of DFS (turns out Bobbi is on the corporate Board of Directors!). The next morning, Bobbi sent a driver to take me to a meeting with Joi at DFS headquarters. After our meeting, I became even more inspired to help the cause.

At the DFS headquarters, all approved applicants are given the VIP treatment. Joi's philosophy is, 'they are down and out, some are homeless and trying to find work-- why humiliate them further by giving them trash bags of clothes to dig through?' I couldn't agree more. Each approved applicant is assigned a (volunteer) personal shopper who helps her try on clothes that flatter and give her confidence. After choosing an outfit for her interview, she walks over to the cosmetic area (donated 100% by Bobbi Brown) where she'll be taught how to make herself look pretty and take home a few products.

My friends, don't fool yourselves by thinking this won't happen to you, your sisters, mothers and friends. These women are you, your sisters, mothers and friends. It can happen to any of us. So I ask you to do your part. I know it's a tough time for everyone but anything will help.

Buy a scarf for $30 or two-- they make fantastic gifts (this year it was designed by Sean Combs, Tommy Hilfiger designed the 2009 edition). I bought mine when I made the visit and use it to tie around my blue birkin. It's a constant reminder to me to continue giving, however I can.

Another way to help is to donate your "gently used" or new clothing (now I know many of you have tags on clothes in your closet you've never worn!). Please remember these women are to use the clothes for job interviews.

Lastly, you can donate your time or money. There, you've done your part.

See how easy that was? Go to the Something to Share site here to purchase scarf or the Dress for Success site here to find out how to donate clothes and/or cash.

Disclaimer: the ad on this site for Something to Share is a donation. They are not a paid advertiser of the Snob sites.

Russell Simmons will be visiting the Big D this week where he is kicking off the first gala to benefit The Diamond Empowerment Fund™ (D.E.F) If you want to hob nob with athletes (Emmitt Smith is hosting with Russell Simmons) and celebs alike, get yourself a ticket to either the dinner, after party, or both! Call Hamilton Sneed at 214-454-5683

If you don't live in Dallas but would like to support this wonderful cause, get a gorgeous Malachite bracelet with rough cut diamond here.

Founded in 2007, The Diamond Empowerment Fund™ (D.E.F.) is a non-profit international organization with the mission to raise money to support education initiatives that develop and empower economically disadvantaged people in African nations where diamonds are a natural resource. Established by individuals and businesses in the diamond and jewelry industries and others who are committed to the empowerment of Africa, we believe education is one of the most critical elements that powers society and empowers individuals to realize their full human potential. D.E.F. endeavors to partner with African education organizations that have a proven methodology for helping young people achieve success through self-determination, focus, and opportunity.