a reason to smile

A couple of weeks ago I received a call from Pilar, the very sweet owner of Lilac Dress Boutique in Alameda. She called to ask if I would be willing to donate something for a raffle she was doing at her store. For years she has been donating to Smile Train, an organization that treats cleft lip and palate around the world, and she decided that a raffle would be a great way to raise awareness as well as funds.

This particular cause hits very close to my heart. Several years ago, I traveled to Rosarito, Mexico on behalf of Thousand Smiles, a similar organization. As a volunteer, I helped screen children suffering with cleft lip and cleft palate. It was hearbreaking to see how such deformities impaired simple functions such as eating, drinking, talking, and even smiling. Not only did these facial deformities impair their physical abilities, they hindered their social abilities even more. In addition to screening untreated patients, we also did checks with previous patients. It was truly amazing to see patients return with such confidence that shined through their smiles.

I really can't think of a better way to support such an amazing cause.


Tickets go for $10 each, and the raffle will go until late September. The goal is to raise $2,000 and help treat 4 kids. There will be 3 prizes. The grand prize will be comprised of dresses and clothing donated by designers including Susana Monaco, Nicole Miller, Butter by Nadia, Lynn Lugo, Kensie and more! The second prize will be jewelry and accessories by various designers including myself. And the third prize will be an assortment of different gift certificates including a haircut and facial!!


To learn more about any of the above information, visit Lilac Dress Boutique.
Photo credit: Lilac Dress Boutique