WHAT IS LBDI?
The Little Black Dress Initiative (LBDI) is a global initiative started by the Junior League of London to raise awareness of the impact of generational poverty. Advocates wear one black dress or outfit for seven consecutive days to illustrate the effects that poverty can have on a woman’s access to resources, her confidence, and professional opportunities. Throughout the week of September 27 - October 3, The Junior League of Atlanta (JLA) and LBDI Advocates are seeking to raise awareness around generational poverty and raise funds to help support our community partners who provide services and resources to those experiencing poverty.
WHAT IS GENERATIONAL POVERTY?
Generational poverty occurs in families where at least two generations have been born into poverty. The JLA adopted this issue in 2013 due to its prevalence in the state of Georgia. Georgia is the 12th worst state for child poverty, with 20% of its children living in poverty. Many of Georgia’s children are struggling to have basic needs met. Growing up in poverty is one of the greatest threats to healthy child development; and poverty and financial stress can impede a child’s cognitive development and their ability to learn.
The JLA is committed to helping eradicate generational poverty in the greater Atlanta area, and through efforts like LBDI, we as an organization are able to provide critical education on this issue and raise money to effect change.
WHAT IS THE JLA DOING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
Beyond advocating on generational poverty at the government and local levels, the JLA partners with many organizations that help support those in generational poverty. Our volunteers help package goods at the Atlanta Community Food Bank, give resume workshops at the Atlanta Women’s Shelter, and provide childcare at the Atlanta Children’s Shelter so parents can work without worry. We work with over 100 community partners throughout metro Atlanta. Please visit JLA's LBDI site for more details.
Our Mission
The Junior League of Atlanta, Inc. (JLA) is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
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