Little Black Dress Initiative

The Little Black Dress Initiative (LBDI) is a five day, social media-driven fundraising campaign that uses the iconic LBD to raise awareness about the mission of the Junior League of Ocala. LBDI Advocates will wear the same black dress (or outfit) for five consecutive days to illustrate the lack of resources underprivileged residents in Marion County face and the effects it has on their education, confidence and overall well-being. By wearing a button that reads “Ask Me About My Dress,” LBDI Advocates invite dialogue among colleagues, friends and strangers to raise awareness. Funds are used to support the Junior League of Ocala and its community initiatives.

Did you know?

  • 28.2% of Marion County children live in poverty, which is higher than the state rate of 21.3% (Source: Marion County Community Health Assessment)
  • 59,852 Marion County households are unable to afford the basics of housing, food, health care, child care and transportation despite working hard (Source: United Way ALICE Report)

Click below to find answers to your important questions:

What is the Little Black Dress Initiative?

Register HERE to be an advocate in The Little Black Dress Initiative

How can I get the word out?

Donate here!

Please email Kali Stauss at [email protected] or Margaret Anne Mareina at [email protected] with any questions regarding LBDI or how to provide support.

 

This year we’re excited to offer a few other ways to support our initiative!

  • Join us for on Tuesday, January 25th at Cantina Tex-Mex & Tequila Bar. Just mention “Junior League” to your server and 10% of your order proceeds will go directly back to our league and your community.
  • We are offering a spin class at Zone Health & Fitness on Wednesday, January 26th from 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm for a $10 donation. If you aren’t a Zone member, please arrive between 5:00 pm – 5:20 pm to fill out the appropriate forms. Please note that this event is now FULL. We thank you for your support! If you would like to be added to the wait list, please contact President-Elect, Kali Stauss, at [email protected]
  • Join us for a happy hour on Friday, January 28th at the Tipsy Skipper from 5 pm – 7 pm. A portion of the proceeds will go directly back to our league and our community.