Let’s Talk Shoes…and Finances!

Remember my post on the Hello Stiletto Shoe Club? Well, Chicago ladies, get ready because there is an event next week that I think you’ll enjoy!

On Wednesday, June 17th, Hello Stiletto is inviting you to come out and show off the shoes that you got for an absolute bargain! So, those $300 pumps that you miraculously purchased for $75? Yep, put them on and strut down Hello Stiletto’s pink carpet from 6:30-9p at Vertigo Sky Lounge (60 N. State).

The Shoe Party will feature a book signing with Gwendolyn Beck, the author of Flirting with Finance, a nonfiction guide that weaves financial concepts with romance and real life stories to make understanding money matters so much more enjoyable than a text book. Attendees can also win some great prizes by participating in a Best Bargain Shoe Walk-Off contest!

Admission is $25, and includes a copy of Flirting with Finance, along with a donation to the Accelerated Cure Project for MS. So, grab your stiletto steals and come out for rooftop drinks and networking on the 26th floor of the Dana Hotel!

To attend, please RSVP by sending an email to sandra0509@shoeclub.us!

-kb

Fun Times at the MS Volunteer Luncheon!

Yesterday, I, along with some other great folks, was recognized for my volunteer efforts within the office of the Greater Illinois Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (MS Society, from now on). Since 2000, I’ve been volunteering with the MS Society at various events and the occasional office visit, but only recently have I established somewhat of a regular presence in the office. The luncheon was held at the fabulous Kinzie Chophouse (400 N. Wells) and offered all of us a chance to get to know each other.

Needless to say, I was very excited to be there for two main reasons! First, this is National Volunteer Week, so it’s perfect timing. And, secondly, one year ago (tomorrow to be exact), my mother lost her battle with MS and I can’t think of a better way to honor her memory! In fact, I will actually be in the office tomorrow helping out

My Table!

To learn more about multiple sclerosis and the AWESOME work of the National MS Society, you can visit nmss.org!

-kb

Busy Buzzing Around Chicago

Hey, hey, hey! How’s everyone been doing? 

It’s been busy, busy, busy here in Chicago and I think the fantastic weather has had something to do with it! Here’s my mini-recap of what’s been happening in my world:

• I started bikram yoga classes on Thursday! If you haven’t heard of it, bikram is yoga in a room heated to 105 degrees. Yes, I’m absolutely serious. I’ve already taken two classes and must say that I’m hooked. I’m focusing on my breathing and oneness, and I can feel the toxins leaving my body. The only downside is the whole hair issue. When you’re putting in work in 105 degrees, the amount of sweat is crazy. But, I don’t want to discourage you! Here’s the website to the studio I attend: www.bikramcitychicago.com! Best part? They give you freeze pops after class!!! YES!
• I stopped by Aniko Salon and Spa on Thursday night for their Aniko Dream Glam event. It was a fabulous time complete with a DJ, wine, cupcakes, beautiful people, shopping, and beauty treatments! I had to haul ass to yoga so I only stayed long enough to chat with Sarah (Chic Gems), Marti (Aniko Owner), and Jenny (Evlove Intimates); and get a skin analysis. The proceeds from the event benefitted Dreams for Kids. 
• Saturday morning, I volunteered for MS Day at the Museum of Science and Industry. Each year, the MS Society provides free admission and lunch to families affected by MS. It’s one of my favorite events to work, and this year was noooo different! It’s nice to see everyone just enjoy themselves and one of the coolest museums in the city!
• Saturday afternoon, I popped into the “Each One, Teach One” female condom training and advocacy workshop. It was absolutely amazing to see young girls actively taking a role in their health, having discussions amongst themselves, and asking the educators questions. On the other end of the room, the women were talking about what they could do to make sure that young girls (and guys) were educated about safe sex. Thanks to the Chicago Women’s AIDS Project for the invite/information. I’m going to post pictures/video from the event on The Red Pump Project website!

Whew! So, as you can see…it’s been nonstop, and honestly, it’s only going to get crazier! I can’t wait!!!

-kb

“Hello Stiletto” Shoe Club

“There was an old lady who lived in her Choos…” 

That’s how the story starts in my head, and I’m sure that’s how it starts in some of your heads too! If you’re devoted to your shoe collection and are borderline obsessed, then you should look into joining the “Hello Stiletto” Shoe Club. No, this is not a drill. 

The shoe clubs meet all over the country for evenings of mingling, shopping, and, most importantly, FOOTWEAR! This club encourages members to wear their most fabulous shoes to events, and strut down the pink carpet for a chance to win prizes. So, those hot pink T-strap pumps with the feathers? Yep, now you have TWO places to wear them

The best part of Hello Stiletto (other than the name) is that every now and then, the events have a charitable twist. Check out these two upcoming events:

Thursday, February 19th – Naples, FL

The Naples club will be celebrating vintage footwear and collecting new and gently used women/children’s shoes for the Naples Shelter for Abused Women and Children. 

Where: Fine Babka, European Bakery and Cafe (71 9th Street South)

When: 6:30-9:00p

For more information, please click here!

Friday, March 6th – Boston, MA

Genevieve Boston, and shoe designer, Kristina Kozak, partner with the Hello Stiletto Shoe Club for the 2nd annual “Glow and Behold Winter Enchanted Ball.” The “Shoe Ball” raises funds for the Accelerated Cure Project for Multiple Sclerosis. 

Where: Ritz-Carlton Boston Common (10 Avery Street)

When: 7:30p-12:00a 

For more information, please click here!

Of course, these aren’t the only Shoe Club happenings. To find out when an event will be heading to your neck of the woods, or how to become a member, simply visit www.shoeclub.us!

-kb

KB’s Journey: Can’t Tell a Story Without a Voice

Okay, folks. I have a confession to make. In the past, I haven’t been good at fundraising for the causes closest to my heart. Now, I’ll volunteer all of my time and give my own money in a heartbeat, but I never really been comfortable asking others for their time or money. Why? Well, because that requires a bit of story-telling. You know, sharing with others my connection to the cause. And, until recently, I’d tell a soft story in a small voice. I’d simply say something like “Oh, my mom has/had MS.” Well, who does that really motivate? Who does that really inspire?

This morning, my mind drifted back to a conversation that I had with my uncle. A couple of summers ago, we were walking along the Chicago River, and he said that he couldn’t understand why his sister (my mother) had to live with this disease. He asked the question that we had all asked ourselves at one point in time, “Why her?” As the warm wind blew across our faces, I turned to him and said, “Through it all, she’s never stopped being positive, loving, or caring. God is using her story to inspire people.”

When my mother passed away at the age of 49, I asked myself a very serious question, “If I had only 25 more years left on this Earth, what is the story that I want others to tell about me?” Better yet, “What is the story that I want to start telling?” Once I knew the answer, I was able to find my voice. The unshakable, unwavering voice of a person who knows what she wants to say and won’t be silenced.

This year, I’m REALLY pushing myself to step it up as it relates to two issues: multiple sclerosis and young caregivers. I’m going to tell my story in hopes that it will motivate others to find their passion, follow their dreams, and support their causes. And, I refuse to let it stop there…

I know that we lead some very busy lives, but I’m challenging all of you to find a cause that you believe in and start thinking about how your story can make a difference. After all, you never know who’s listening or being inspired at that moment…

-kb

Act #4

Today, I signed up to assemble Walk MS Team packets at the MS Society on Monday!

-kb

KB’s Journey: Scholarships with the MS Society

Last year, when my mother passed away, my sister and I decided that we wanted to make a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s scholarship program, in her honor. The scholarships assist high school students who either have a parent living with MS or who have MS themselves. My mom was a very big believer in all things education, so it was such a natural decision!

Now this year, in addition to planning events to keep my Mom’s scholarship alive, I’ve been asked to assist the Greater Illinois Chapter with their scholarship drive campaign! I’m actually heading over to the Chapter office now to help craft a letter explaining why it’s so important to support these scholarships. The letter will be sent to various donors, so am going to really make sure that my voice/POV are heard in that letter! It definitely won’t be hard for me to think of reasons! I’m very grateful to have this opportunity and really hope the campaign does well!!!

To find out more about the MS Society’s scholarship program, you can click here!

I’ll talk to you all later!

-kb

Slug It Out For MS!

It’s time to slug it out in the fight against multiple sclerosis! On Saturday August 9th, Multiple Solutions, the junior board of the National MS Society – Greater Illinois Chapter, will be hosting the 8th annual MS Slugfest 2008 at Mt. Greenwood Park on the South Side (115th and Pulaski). MS Slugfest is a one-day, 16-inch, co-ed softball tournament with up to 64 teams of 15 players. The event is held annually, rain or shine, and includes a fully catered lunch by Robinson’s Ribs, the Weber Grill Home Run Derby, and some great fundraising and championship prizes (like Sox/Cubs tickets, gift certificates, etc)! 

So far, over 30 teams have signed up to play in this year’s tournament and I’m confident that Slugfest is on track to meet/surpass their fundraising goal of $130,000! I’ve been to a couple of Multiple Solutions meetings this year, and the Slugfest chair and committee are REALLY working their butts off! So, come on out and support them/us as we take one step closer to a world free of MS!!!

Head on over to www.MsSlugfest.com if you’re interested in playing, raising money, being a sponsor or volunteering. Or you can shoot an email over to msslugfest@ild.nmss.org

-kb

KB’s Journey 07/20/2008

In “KB’s Journey,” I will talk about some of the initiatives and causes that I support, and keep you posted on my philanthropic journeys.

In September, I’ve accepted the challenge to participate in the Capital Challenge Walk, a two-day 50K walk in Washington D.C designed to raise funds for the fight against multiple sclerosis. I’ve been training for two weeks and all I can think about is how much I need a deep tissue massage. To add insult to injury, I’ve started the healthy eating lifestyle again, so not only do my muscles hurt, but I also want six glazed donuts! Whew…I digress!

When I’m training, I’m not walking the full amount but hitting the trail for 5-6 miles at a time in the Chicago summer can make it feel like I’m walking FOREVER! I’m not complaining though because I do my walks on the lakefront so I have some beautiful scenery (and my iPod) keeping me company!

I’m really excited to participate in this walk because it’s all about challenging yourself for the greater good. Plus, I’m doing it in celebration of my mother who tirelessly fought multiple sclerosis for almost 30 years. If she could do that and keep the faith, I surely can walk these kilometers/miles and keep mine. That doesn’t mean that I won’t get tired along the way, but I know that I’ll make it! Now that I’ve ridded myself of any and all excuses not to participate, I’m officially starting my fundraising plan this week. Each participant must raise at least $1500 so in addition to the usual email/phone campaign, I’ve also planned some fun activities (of course) to get folks excited about giving! If you’re interested, stay tuned for the details!

Alright, enough chatting on my end, I have to walk 4 miles at 6a, and my body’s still recovering from the 6 miles this weekend. I’m off to drink a cup of nighttime tea and drift away to La La Land. For more info on the Capital Challenge Walk, visit this site: www.msandyou.org!

Sweet dreams…

-kb

We Love to Erase MS

 

So, one of the causes closest to my heart is finding a cure for multiple sclerosis! I’m always looking for different ways to donate my time and money for programs, research, etc. So, imagine my delight when I came across these cute “We ♥ To Erase MS” orange tees (I ordered mine last week)!

 

 

 

   

These tees were designed by Tommy Hilfiger, a long-time supporter of MS research, and 100% of the proceeds support the Nancy Davis Foundation for Multiple Sclerosis. The signature event for the Nancy Davis Foundation is the celebrity-filled gala, “The Race to Erase MS” featuring among many other things a celebrity fashion show by Tommy Hilfiger. This year was the 15^th anniversary of the gala and raised over $2 MILLION dollars to support MS research!

 

Click here for more information on the tees! While you’re on the site, be sure to check out the other stylish merchandise for sale including super-chic orange leather bracelets from Alexandra Richard and some flirty orange nail polish…Just in time for summer!

 

KB