MAKING A DIFFERENCE

MTV News just reported on an amazing organization with roots in Florida, that is now spreading across the nation. Becca's Closet is a non-profit organization that collects prom dresses, shoes and other accessories to distribute to high school students who cannot afford to purchase their own. There are no extensive background checks, no need to provide copies of bills. As one volunteer stated in the report, "If you've come to us, you're in need. We don't ask questions, we just want to help."

This may sound like a trivial, less than important cause, but it's not, for two really great reasons. First, and the most universal of the two, is that no matte who insignificant senior prom may seem (later in life), for high school seniors, this is a major social event. And social exclusion, because of financial hardship, or otherwise, can be emotionally damaging for teens. Everyone just wants to belong, and for many students attending prom offers a sense of belonging. And rather than just handing out old hand-me-downs, Becca's closet asks that donations be recent styles, and includes shoes, make-up and certificates for hair-styling, thanks to local merchants. In short, they offer the total transformation package for those in need.

The second reason is that the young woman who founded the organization was killed in car crash shortly after starting Becca's Closet. Her unfortunate death brought her community together (a rarity these days), and her generosity has begun to spread beyond the Miami-Dade area.

If you'd like to know more about Becca's closet, or would like to make a donation, click here.