Sunday Funday! Bright Pink and Bears

Bright Pink Gals

On Sunday, I spent my day walking around the city and checking out events held by two great organizations! First, I payed a visit to The 900 Shops on North Michigan Avenue. Bright Pink was hosting its charity shopping event, and I stopped by to grab some pictures and say “Hi!” From the giant sign out front to the smiling volunteer wearing a pink shirt, there was no mistaking the point of this day. DONATE…SHOP…SAVE…ENJOY!

Participating stores featured signs in the windows to highlight the deals AND also had a pink arrow leading patrons in. When I arrived, lululemon was hosting a free yoga class on the first floor while makeup artists beautified some faces under hot pink umbrellas.

Makeup and Yoga!

DJ Rock City played a great mix of music including a MJ tribute, which still makes me light up. Guests made their way throughout the stores grabbing great deals and taking advantage of all the free treats. Williams-Sonoma had a run on their free pink cupcakes, and guests enjoyed free mini-manicures courtesy of the Mario Tricoci Hair Salon (amongst all the other goodies). Look at all those cute pink colors below!

ZOYA Nail Color in shades of pink

Afterwards, I mosied on along to Erie Park for the Taste of River North. Bear Necessities, a great pediatric cancer foundation here, had a booth at the riverside festival. While children played on the hill and live bands entertained the crowds, we volunteered at the booth signing up people to help Bear Necessities’ programs. During my shift, I worked alongside two gents, one an intern and the other was a great volunteer like myself!

BN Table!

All in all, I had a great day seeing the city and meeting new people. Another summer Sunday Funday entered in the books

How were your weekends?

-kb

La Rabida Summerfest 2009

La Rabida Hospital (SaintJohnsAbbey.org)

Tomorrow from 6-9p, La Rabida Children’s Hospital is opening their beautiful grounds to host “Summerfest 2009,” an outdoor concert to help raise funds for their Child Advocacy Center (CAC).

The CAC is a safe, child-friendly environment for children who have experienced psychological trauma and for alleged victims of sexual abuse and other violent crimes. All of crucial services are provided for free to the children and their families. THAT is why it’s so important to support this department!

The Summerfest will feature live performances from local talent, while spreading word of CAC’s commitment and service throughout the community. Tickets are $10 in advance and $20 at the door. You can purchase them by clicking this link. I don’t need many excuses to listen to live music on the lakefront, so I definitely plan on attending. Grab a ticket. Grab some friends. Come on out and help this GREAT cause!

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Join Me for Sun, Fun, and Bears!

This weekend during the Taste of River North, I’ll be volunteering inside the tent with supporters/staff of the Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. On Sunday afternoon, I’ll be manning the booth while helping to raise awareness about the the strength of pediatric cancer fighters, sell raffle tickets and (of course) have some fun! It’s  supposed to be sunny and in the low- to mid-70s this week, so if you’re looking to sprinkle some service in your summer, come hang out with me! Or you can select another shift that may work for you.

To sign up as a volunteer, please contact Barbara at specialevents@bearnecessities.org or call 312.214.1200 Ext. 29 with your desired date and shift to volunteer! Currently, there is still a need during the following times!

Saturday, July 18th
Shift #3 – 7:00pm – 10:00pm

Sunday, July 19th
Shift #2 – 3:00pm – 7:00pm

Hope you can make it!

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P.S. Don’t forget that your volunteer efforts can earn you either a free or 50% off night in a Sage hotel!

All Stars Perform and Excel in Chicago

Chicago All-Stars with Executive Director, David Cherry (bottom right)

Historically, children from lower socio-economic backgrounds have less opportunities than their counterparts. There’s no question about that. However, just because something is true, doesn’t mean that it can’t be changed. All it takes is a little opportunity, some dedication, and great talent.

Founded in 1981 in New York City, the All Stars Project is a nonprofit “dedicated to promoting human development through the use of an innovative performance-based model.” The program creates educational and performing arts activities for thousands of young people with the goal of opening more doors for their future.

In 2007, the All Stars Project brought its vision and mission here to the Windy City, under the guidance of Executive Director, David Cherry. Cherry has worked in Chicago communities for over 16 years, and has a deep passion for assisting the youth who come through All Stars. Chicago’s first All Stars Talent Show was held in March 2007. Since that initial show, over 1000 young people from across the city have had the opportunity to showcase their performing prowess.

Last Wednesday, I was invited to attend a benefit luncheon at the Metropolitan Club of Chicago and enjoyed an afternoon of learning more about the organization and its programs in Chicago. At each of our tables sat a youth host who’d previously participated in the Developmental School for Youth program. Being the curious young lady that I am, I asked her to tell me about her experiences within the program. She enthusiastically described workshops including resume building, training on business attire, and public speaking. These workshops were often developed and facilitated with the assistance of Chicago professionals volunteering their skills.

As the luncheon went on, I was very impressed by the way that members of Chicago’s business community have rallied around the All Stars to invest in the future of these deserving students. In addition to financial support, companies such as MetLife and Dun and Bradstreet, will provide summer internships for a dose of real-world experience. In college, I had the opportunity to intern in Corporate America and I can’t stress how important it was to me, both at that moment and even now.

“I can honestly say that I learned a lot during the program,” my table host told me. What’s beautiful is that this statement isn’t just limited to her experience. According to Cherry, one of the great things about All Stars is that they’ve created programs that the students “actually want to participate in.”

I would love for you guys to check out the All Stars Project, especially the talent show! During the luncheon, two of the cutest young ladies performed on stage, and they were good! The next shows will be held in August on the South Side of Chicago. To find out more, please visit www.allstars.org/chicago.html!

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“Style Your Sole” at AKIRA

Egg Yellow Stripe TOMS, $44

Want a pair of TOMS but have your own design that you would like to rock? Well, then head on down to AKIRA (1849 W. North) this Thursday, June 25th from 4-9p for “Style Your Sole.” At this painting party, you can have your TOMS customized by SARO, a local artist, or you can do it yourself!

With a purchase of TOMS, you’ll get a free gift bag courtesy of LUSH Cosmetics. The store will also offer drinks courtesy of Ultimat Vodka, raffle prizes, and giveaways. Whoo hoo! If you’re planning to attend, send an email to brittany@akirachicago.com.

Check out some of my TOMS’ picks in a previous post!

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What A Great Wednesday!

Cheers!

Tomorrow is one of those days in Chicago where there are a few after work events raising funds for charity! If you’re looking for someplace to unwind and grab a drink for a cause, consider one of these options!

TweetNetworking (For A Cause)

What: Master networker, Mark Carter, has created an off-shoot to his successful Networking for a Cause events. These tweetups will combine the power of social networking and philanthropy.

Where: Catalyst Ranch (656 W. Randolph) from 6-8:30p

Donation: $10, benefits Dream for Kids. Includes drinks, pizza, pasta, and sandwiches! More details are here!

Summer Flavors

What: The Planning Committee of the Meals on Wheels Celebrity Chef Ball is hosting this summer event to raise funds for the ball and build the anticipation of the Ball happening on Friday, October 16, 2009.

Where: Rooftop of Chaise Lounge (1840 W. North Ave) from 6-8p

Donation: $20, benefits Meals on Wheels. Donation will be waived if you purchase a ticket to the Celebrity Chef Ball. Includes cocktails featuring Milagro Tequila and Hendricks’ Gin along with new appetizers from Chef Cary Taylor! More details are here.

Recessionista Shoe Party

What: The Hello Stiletto Shoe Club is hosting a networking social/book signing with Gwendolyn Beck, the author of Flirting With Finance. I posted about this event on Friday!

Where: Vertigo Sky Lounge (660 N. State) from 6:30-9p

Donation: $25, benefits the Accelerated Cure Project for MS. Includes a copy of Flirting With Finance. More details are here!

Okay, so there you have it! Three great events…Three great causes! No matter which one you pick, I’m sure that you’ll have a GREAT time!

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NYC Event: Shop Kenneth Cole for Charity

The Kenneth Cole store in Grand Central Station will be hosting a summer shopping event on Thursday, June 25th to benefit Making Books Sing’s S.A.F.E. Program. The S.A.F.E. (Shelter, Arts, Family, Education) program is a two-year old initiative designed to “engage homeless families in creative experiences that foster self-expression, literacy development, and family time.”

From 6-9p, guests will enjoy an evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and shopping! And, a generous portion of the evening’s sales will be donated in support of the S.A.F.E. Program.

When I walked past the KC store on Michigan Ave (Chicago) last week, I saw some great sandals in there for the ladies and very nice bags (of course) for the guys. If you’re in NYC, you should definitely join the summer soiree on your way home from work!

-kb

Giving Back While Throwing Down

Patio at Zella

I absolutely love the official description of the Stimulus Social Club!

Stimulus Social Club is a network of socially conscious professionals in the Chicago area who choose to give back while throwing down!

Giving back…Throwing down? Um, sign me up! Every first Wednesday, hundreds of Chicago professionals gather at a local hotspot for networking, drinks, and fundraising. Tonight, the group will gather at Zella (1983 N. Clybourn) from 6:30-9p. The selected beneficiary? The Valentine’s Boys and Girls Club, located in the Bridgeport neighborhood. If you’re interested in attending, send an email to rsvp@stimulusocialclub.com!

The suggested donation is $10, and includes a complimentary drink and appetizers! You can learn more by visiting their website!

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Lilly Pulitzer “A Colorful Cause” Collection

Brooke Printed Caftan, $268

The Epidermolysis Bullosa Medical Research Foundation has partnered with Lilly Pulitzer clothing to commemorate their 50 years with “A Colorful Cause” Collection. The EBMRF is a volunteer, non-profit foundation dedicated to helping medical scientists learn more about epidermolysis bullosa, a group of diseases characterized by blister formation after minor trauma to the skin. Individuals with EB have extremely fragile skin, as any trauma will cause chronic sores, and most individuals affected by the disease have little hope of living past 30 years.

The Lilly Pulitzer Spring ’09 line will feature clothing designed for adults and children by Brooke Shields, Gwyneth Paltrow, Bridget Moynahan, Catherine Bell, Angie Harmon, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Marcia Cross and Debra Messing. You can find the collection at Lilly Pulitzer stores and online at www.lillypulitzer.com.  A percentage of the sales from these designs will go to the EBMRF and Lilly Pulitzer has also made a generous donation to the organization.

Here are some of my favorite pieces from the collection:

Paltrow Print Bikini, $178

So Cal Solid Shift, $298

Regency Strapless Bubble Dress, $268

To TOMS or Not to TOMS?

I love TOMS’ commitment to donating one pair of shoes to children for every pair sold, BUT I’ve been struggling with some of the style options. For the most part, the ultra-casual slip on has not managed to impress me. And, when I gathered opinions from my Twitter peeps, the majority of the responses centered around “great cause, not-so-great style.” Nooo

What’s a girl to do? Well, enter my friend, DG. I hung out with her yesterday and noticed that she owns the glittery TOMS in silver and gold. So, of course, I had the this same conversation with her, only to find out that she’s low-key obsessed with the shoes! She owns four pairs, bought a pair for her son, AND a pair for her brother. Hmm…so, in honor of DG, I am re-examining the TOMS collection and digging up a couple of pairs that I would be interested in. You know, for the ultra-casual days!

Of course, there are the sparkly options:

Gold Glitter TOMS, $48

Silver Glitter TOMS, $48

And, a couple of ones perfect for the spring/summer time.

Egg Yellow Stripe TOMS, $44

Gabe Lacktman TOMS Neon Aqua Fade Womens, $68 (web exclusive)

DG made me a believer as she talked about how the shoes give her a comfy break from the 4 and 5 inch heels that she loves to wear! I think I’m starting to drink the Koolaid because while writing this post, I’ve wholeheartedly convinced myself that I need the neon aqua fade TOMS in my life immediately! The only problem is that there is a 3-4 week wait period for the Gabe Lacktman exclusives.

And, for those of you all who still don’t believe that the company donates a pair of shoes to children for every one sold, BELIEVE IT! Since 2006, they’ve donated 140,000 shoes to children around the world, and this year, their goal is to distribute 300,000 shoes! It’s hard to argue with numbers like those. You can read all about their commitment here. They also have tons of videos from their “shoe drops” on their YouTube channel.

You can either buy the shoes online at tomsshoes.com or at a boutique/retailer near you. For my Chicago peeps, the AKIRA women’s shoe store (North Avenue) carries them!

So…what do you guys think about TOMS now? I’ve always loved the cause and now that I’ve found some nice styles, I’m sold! All thanks to DG

-kb