ANNpower + Giveaway

When you think of ANN INC., you probably think of Ann Taylor and LOFT. If you’re not as familiar with ANNpower, read on. And don’t miss your chance to win one of FIVE $250 GIFT CARDS! 🙂

The ANNpower Vital Voices Initiative is a groundbreaking partnership between ANN INC., the parent company of Ann Taylor and LOFT, and Vital Voices to empower young women from across the U.S. to affect global progress, invest in their communities, and begin their journeys as the next generation of leaders.

According to Forbes, ANNpower is a challenge for women to make their own first ripple within the world. Empowering, challenging, and life-changing are the three biggest words used to describe it. And beyond just that, it is an open project for young women across the United States to take a part of.

Girls who are in the 10th or 11th grade at a high school in the United States or Puerto Rico should apply to become a leader that will affect change in their communities. If chosen, they will attend the ANNpower Vital Voices Leadership Forum in Washington D.C on April 1-4 and be eligible to win a grant to put their ideas into action.

Please feel free to pass along this info to anyone who would be a great fit for the program! 🙂

Applications are due by January 25, 2013 at 5pm EST. Application can be found here.

And now for the giveaway…

ANN Inc. has been generous enough to provide FIVE $250 Gift Cards for Bows & Sequins readers! Gift cards can be used at both Ann Taylor and LOFT.

Entering to win is easy!

1. Leave one comment below answering this question.. “What are you currently doing to put change into action in your community?”

2. For one additional entry, “Like” Bows & Sequins, Ann Taylor, and LOFT on Facebook. Please leave one comment letting us know you did!

I will choose the 5 winners on Saturday, January 26th. Good luck!

**

Good luck!

Winner UpdateThank you ALL SO SO MUCH for entering! I am beyond inspired by all of these entries! I am so honored that you all take the time out of your busy schedules to read Bows & Sequins. It was so hard to pick only five winners!!

1. Marina Stiefvater
2. Becky
3. Carly S
4. Danielle
5. Kris T.

Look out for an email shortly!

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199 Comments

  1. 1.21.13
    Elizabeth said:

    I am a teacher so I work with students as much as I can to create awareness about important social issues. Each year we come up with a service project to help give back to others. Teaching students early is a great way to start a positive change in our world.

  2. 1.21.13
    Abbie said:

    One thing I am doing to put change into action is coaching 12 year olds in volleyball. They don’t all come from the best home and school situations, so giving them an outlet to be active, make friends, and accomplish something is really rewarding to me. Coaching is the one thing I would do for the rest of my life if I could. I love being a role model to young kids and not only teaching them sports but also life skills that they can use going forward.

  3. 1.21.13
    Abbie said:

    Oh and I also meet all the follow requirements.

  4. 1.21.13
    Shana said:

    I volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, as I feel it is important to help provide safe, affordable housing for as many members of my community as possible.

  5. 1.21.13
    Shana said:

    I’ve liked all three FB pages (Shana Hattis)

  6. 1.21.13
    Rachel Ortiz said:

    I am a Kindergarten teacher in a Title 1 school. Everyday, I work with students who do not have great opportunities at home, and I have a great responsibility to teach these students how to succeed. It is the most rewarding job in the world! (Thanks for the great giveaway!)

  7. 1.21.13
    Rachel Ortiz said:

    I liked all 3 facebook pages. Thanks for the great giveaway!

  8. 1.21.13
    Gabby said:

    I volunteer with Junior League and I have so many special events that help out my community. We are going to bake and decorate cookies on valentines day to deliver to mothers and children in local shelters and create a day where the families can spend time together. We are also creating a day for children with special needs to come out to a therapeutic riding center and be able to spend the day with the horses. We have set up activities for the students to learn to ride and brush the horses. We are also trying to raise money to give the school several scholarships for the students to continue the riding lessons. It is very rewarding to be part of Junior League and amazing to be able to give back!

  9. 1.21.13
    Gabby said:

    I liked all three on facebook =) (Gabby Portela)

  10. 1.21.13
    Hannah said:

    As a nursing student, I am currently trying to put change into action through my patients. I have worked with the medically underserved to change their health habits such as healthy eating and exercise, as well as trying to help them find resources in their community to continue these habits after they leave the hospital or clinic.

  11. 1.21.13
    Katie Contests said:

    I’m actually in the middle of launching a community blog that will advertise local businesses and publicize local volunteer opportunities!

  12. 1.21.13
    Lauren said:

    As a college student, there are endless opportunities to make a change in my community. I have become a mentor for a 2nd grader through the Clark County Mentor Program. The program has been tremendously successful, as Clark County is the poorest county in Georgia and there are so many children that do not have stable home structure. As a mentor, I have the opportunity to simply be someone that he can count on as I strive to be a positive influence in his life. Additionally, I tutor middle school students as they prepare to compete in math competitions in the area. Through these two programs, Its been a joy to have the opportunity to be a positive influence on the kids of Clark County.

  13. 1.21.13
    Lauren said:

    Also, I liked all three!

  14. 1.21.13
    heather said:

    I support local 4-H in my community, I donate when ever I can to local charities, I recycle daily and try to walk instead of driving for small trips.

  15. 1.21.13
    Katie Contests said:

    I like everyone on FB! (Katie Contests)

  16. 1.21.13
    Ashley said:

    I am a teacher too! By being enthusiastic about my content area (science), I have inspired many of my female students to go into scientific fields such a marine biology and engineering. I am also in charge of our middle school STEM club and encourage all students grades 7-9 to explore different STEM fields. This giveaway rocks. 🙂

  17. 1.21.13
    Ashley said:

    Also followed all three pages on FB.

    xoxo

  18. 1.21.13
    Mrs Storie said:

    I reach out to my community through my students. I support them academically but also with love, tolerance and laughter! We spend everyday together and after 23 years it is still a joy!

  19. 1.21.13
    Trang said:

    I volunteer at my children’s schools. I also liked all three, Bows and Sequins, Ann Taylor and Loft.

  20. 1.21.13
    Rachel said:

    Every Earth Day, my Dad and I help to clean up our neighborhood. You’d be amazed at how much trash and waste is ruining our environment, so this little bit can help a lot!

  21. 1.21.13
    Rachel said:

    Liked all 3 on FB!

  22. 1.21.13

    I have been volunteering for a year in an underprivileged area about 25 minutes from my house at a free daycare center. These kids are young (ages 0-5) so they probably don’t understand the severity of the situation most of them/their parents are in. Most have teen parents, a parent in jail, a parent who sells themself, etc. I try to help put a smile on their faces when I visit them weekly and also talk to the parents about helping themselves so they can be better for their kids!

  23. 1.21.13

    I also meet all 3 following requirements.

  24. 1.21.13
    Elizabeth said:

    I work in advertising so time is not something I have very often. Supporting the United Way of Forsyth County is the way I give back. I love the community I live in and the United Way does an amazing job of supporting 100’s of local organizations.

  25. 1.21.13
    Elizabeth said:

    Liked all three pages as well, thanks!

  26. 1.21.13
    anna said:

    I teach 3rd grade, and I teach my students that just ONE voice can make a difference.

  27. 1.21.13
    anna said:

    I also liked the other pages.

  28. 1.21.13
    Marina Stiefvater said:

    I work as a Marriage and Family Therapist at a non-profit that serves at-risk and under served youth and families. Part of my job is working with girls in the juvenile justice system (which statistics say, 90%+ girls in this system have experienced some sort of trauma) using this amazing program called Girls Circle. It’s a strength based and empowering program that’s done all over the USA (and other countries too!) that focuses on relationships and the strength of sharing with a community. It is both humbling and inspiring to see teen girls overcome the adversity if abuse, gangs, family struggles and problems with the legal system- all through having a voice and finding they are not alone! (P.s. I ‘like’ all 3 on FB)

  29. 1.21.13
    Holly B said:

    I volunteer at the local furniture bank and participate in cemetery clean ups once a month. Its about the limit of what I can do with my free time, though I’d love to find something more closely aligned with helping women.

  30. 1.21.13
    Holly B said:

    Liked all 3 on Facebook 🙂

  31. 1.21.13
    Liz Byrne said:

    At my college I am the VP of the Nicaragua Project. Here we have already raised this past semester over $1,000 to help benefit a town in Nicaragua that we are extremely close to. In the past we have built a wall in front of the pre-school to prevent kids from running out in the street, we built a swing set, and a slide! These are just to name a few! Last January I traveled down there and I am traveling again at the end of March!!! This service brings a smile to myself every single day of my life and has completely changed me forever.

  32. 1.21.13
    Liz Byrne said:

    I just liked all three pages of Facebook 🙂

  33. 1.21.13
    Shannon said:

    I liked all 3 Facebook pages

  34. 1.21.13

    I’m the marketing director for a local 5K race. This year we decided to donate a portion of our proceeds to the Center for Early Childhood Education. This is a local non-profit that focuses on getting kids into preschool so they get all the benefits that research has proven preschool gives. In the past we’ve spread our proceeds around but this year we’re focusing it all in one place where we think it will do the most good.

  35. 1.21.13

    And I like all three pages on Facebook.

  36. 1.21.13
    Whitney said:

    I’ve read several comments from fellow teachers above, and I am so proud of how much each teacher impacts the lives of so many children. I teach a Global Studies course in which I focus on cosmopolitan awareness of the world’s social, geopolitical, and environmental problems. I encourage empathy and compassionate action through critical thinking activities and assessments.
    I put my teaching in action as I volunteer my time in the summers to an educational program for underprivileged kids. Although the kids are local, I believe that every child has an opportunity to make an even greater impact on his or her environment that will spread even further than my own individual efforts. It is the goal of teachers to create people who care about learning, but more importantly future leaders who care more about others than themselves. Change can appear small, but I firmly believe that my every day passion plants seeds capable of producing monumental change. It fuels me every day, and I am so optimistic and hopeful for our future.

  37. 1.21.13
    Whitney said:

    I “like” all three pages (name on Facebook is “Whitney Andrews”).

    Thank you for this giveaway — I LOVE Ann Taylor and LOFT!

  38. 1.21.13
    Lynn said:

    I moved into my current neighborhood over a year ago and mail is often miss delivered in my area. So when someone else letter or package is delivered to my home I hand deliver the item to the rightful recipient. I hope by doing this my neighbors/ the community will do the same for me and other. It’s also a great way to meet the neighbors.
    This isn’t a big act of change, but it’s something I can do that I’m comfortable with.

  39. 1.21.13
    Lauren said:

    I’m an active member of my local Junior League — I’ve volunteered all throughout the city to help out! It’s a great way to develop women’s leadership skills (and friendships), while giving back!

    I also liked all 3 pages on Facebook. Thanks!

  40. 1.21.13

    I currently work in the Admissions Office of a community college. Everyday, I help new students begin their collegiate careers and assist current students with meeting requirements toward their two-year degrees and transfer and/or career goals. I’m also going to be tutoring students this semester– just another way to help those in our college community get where they want to go!

    (Liked all three pages too.)

  41. 1.21.13
    kelli said:

    I volunteer for Susan G Komen spreading the word about Breast Cancer awareness in the community. Several years ago my sister was diagnosed with Breast Cancer it was a very difficult time for her and our family. I am proud to say today she is a 6 year Survivor!!!! We are so blessed and thankful to still have her in our lives.

    Thanks for offering this contest.

  42. 1.21.13
    kelli said:

    I liked all 3 Facebook pages!

    Thanks

  43. 1.21.13
    Alissa Cady said:

    I’ve been working to make others aware of the need to educate women about dating and spousal violence. My mother and Grandmother were both abused and so I deeply value helping others avoid or leave bad situations. I think anti dating violence education starts with children and teens. If they know their value and that they have options they will have better tools to help themselves.

  44. 1.21.13
    Alissa Cady said:

    I liked all three! Thank you so much for doing this giveaway.

  45. 1.21.13
    Sarah Bailie said:

    My husband and I work at a university in our community helping students not only find what careers they would like to pursue but also various ways of helping change the world they live in now! For example, we have each taken trips to each English and raise awareness overseas to China, Africa and Guam.

  46. 1.21.13
    Becky said:

    I am an elementary school teacher for students with Autism spectrum disorders. Last year as a first year teacher, I initiated the first Autism awareness day at the school I was working at. I distributed information to staff, encouraged classroom teachers to work with their students to create a puzzle pieces in support of Autism awareness and to create unity in the school community, and raised money for the Autism Society of America. I am in this field because I am passionate about helping children with disabilities reach their full potential. If I can help educate more people every year about Autism, I hope to be a part of the change that will remove the stigma from this prevalent diagnosis. The students I teach are some of the most loving and interesting people I have met!

    I have liked LOFT, Ann Taylor and Bows and Sequins. Thanks all for helping dress the fabulous women who make changes in our society every day!

  47. 1.21.13
    April said:

    A change that I am putting into my community is making others aware of the exclusive language that we end up using in every day speech. While I know that I, myself, use it often too, it is nice to be mindful of it, and to let others know that what they are saying may hurt others even if it was unintentional.

  48. 1.21.13
    Melanie Davis said:

    My name is Melanie Davis and together with my church group we have sponsored a block in the community near our church. We go out at least one weekend a month and just go door to door asking people how we can help them. Sometimes they need yard work, sometimes they need help moving furniture and for Christmas we gathered up money from our class and asked the parents what their kids wanted for Christmas and helped them buy Christmas present for their kids.

  49. 1.21.13
    Mami2jcn said:

    I think it all starts at home. I’m homeschooling my children and trying to raise kind human beings. We also get involved in making donations to our local food bank, toys for tots, and our church.

  50. 1.21.13
    Melanie Davis said:

    I also liked Ann Taylor, loft, and bows and sequins on Facebook 🙂

  51. 1.21.13
    Liz Perry said:

    I’m making a change in my community by mentoring high schoolers as a church youth group sponsor. Not only do I meet with the kids once a week for scheduled youth group, but I make myself availble to them and aware of the issues that teens face today.

  52. 1.21.13
    Liz Perry said:

    I completed all the additional entry requirements!

  53. 1.21.13
    Hannah Yoon said:

    I’m writing for hercampus.com this semester, in hopes that I can help college girls have a safer and more enjoyable time at college@

    hope i win!

  54. 1.22.13
    Valerie Smith said:

    I teach high school math. I absolutely love my job! I am helping out my community and our school by coming in at 6:45am and staying school until 4:30pm to help tutor students in various math topics! It is so awesome to see the “Ah-ha moment” when students understand math! I love being a women inspiring other girls to love and enjoy math too!
    Thank you for the giveaway!
    Valerie

    • 1.22.13
      Valerie Smith said:

      🙂 my high school English teacher would mark my comment up in red! And staying “after” school. I love being a “woman”inspiring… Hope grammatical errors don’t count against me 🙂

      • 1.25.13
        Valerie Smith said:

        PS. Did I mention I am leading the teachers in a Pep-Assembly Dance to do in front of the teachers! So much fun! We did this last year too and the students enjoed it! This year we are dancing to Gangam Style, Chicken Noodle Soup (yes it is a song), Moves Like Jagger, I am Sexy and I Know it and many more! It is so much fun to see all the students getting into our dances!!!
        Thank you again for the giveaways!

  55. 1.22.13
    Valerie Smith said:

    Followed your Facebook, Ann Taylor and Loft 🙂
    Thank you!

  56. 1.22.13
    Sarah said:

    As I am in the medical field, I work with underserved patients on a daily basis who have little access to healthcare and are working to navigate the system. It is extremely rewarding to be able to provide meaningful care to a population who truly needs and values it.

  57. 1.22.13
    Katie said:

    Currently serving as head of the sponsorship committee for the annual charity event, A Date 2 Remember, with the Columbus Young Professionals Club. This year we’re raising over $35,000 for City Year (works to help keep at risk students in school by providing 18-22 year old mentors) and United Way. The event combines a live date auction and fashion show, and all proceeds go to our charities. It’s an awesome event that really shows what the young professional community can do when banded together!

  58. 1.22.13
    Katie said:

    Have liked all of you on Facebook for a while 🙂

  59. 1.22.13
    sarah said:

    I’m a nurse- who works with post transplant heart/lung patients. I’m a huge advocate for organ donation and love having that conversation with people. It’s a big decision for someone to be an organ donor but such an important one- after seeing the positive outcomes and reciepients getting a seconds chance at life- it’s a nation wide topic that I am so excited about!
    I’d also love some money to spend at ann taylor- so maybe i’ll have something new and nice wear something other than scrubs this spring 🙂

  60. 1.22.13
    Emily said:

    I am currently a junior in college in the suburbs of Chicago. I tutor and teach twice a week in a low-income South Side elementary school in reading and writing. I am hoping to participate in Teach for American post-grad in Appalachia or South Dakota. I am applying for an internship with World Relief to work with refugees in their transition to living in the States.

  61. 1.22.13
    Patricia said:

    I support the arts by volunteering my skills as a grant writer. In 2013 I helped three organizations earn nearly $100,000 in funding for high school music programs.

  62. 1.22.13
    Emily said:

    I liked all three on Facebook! 🙂

  63. 1.22.13
    Amy said:

    What an amazing giveaway! At my college we have a program that on Friday nights for children with disabilities and their siblings so they can drop them off and have a few hours for a date night on Friday night and not have to pay for babysitting. It’s amazing to connect with the kids and to let their parents have a break.

  64. 1.22.13
    Danielle said:

    I love this giveaway! I am so glad you are partnering with such fabulous causes and using your blog as a way to promote them! 🙂

    I am currently taking a step towards changing my community by volunteering at the downtown animal care & control. Many pet owners and people in general are uneducated about caring for pets. I am a huge animal rights advocate and if I could adopt every stray animal that came through the doors I would! Since I have no where near enough means to do so, I give them love & care and teach them to trust humans again.

    I LOVE bows & sequins on FB as well as Ann Taylor and Loft.

    Thanks so much for doing this giveaway!

  65. 1.22.13

    My husband and I try to always have the sidewalks shoveled of snow for our apartment complex. I also help out a lot at my church and teach the young kids at my church, which is always fun!

  66. 1.22.13
    Samantha said:

    I joined our local Habitat for Humanity organization. I’d love to find more ways to make a change in my community though!!

  67. 1.22.13
    Mode said:

    Tomorrow’s future starts with today’s youth. As an undergraduate I started a tutoring group, comprised of mainly females, to tutor math and science at a local middle school. I feel that it is important for young females to be taught subjects that are stereotypically deemed too “hard” for them by another female. To see their eyes light up when they finally “get it” makes it all worth while.

    I also bake for our local Hospice agency. Baking has always been a source of stress relief so this partly selfish and selfless. Our local agency goes through 4-6 dozen cookies/treats a day from visiting family members, volunteers and staff. I cannot take away anyone’s pain, sadness or grief, but I can make them smile for a moment with a cookie or birthday cake.

  68. 1.22.13
    Kristin said:

    I teach Sunday school at the church I grew up in. It’s so rewarding to see the kids learning to love God and each other and helping to equip the parents to raise leaders for the future.

  69. 1.22.13
    Hannah said:

    I volunteer at the local soup kitchen and have volunteered at The Humane Society. It is heartbreaking to see people take on animals that they can’t take care of and leave them to live their lives in a crate. People need to be educated before they buy a dog for themselves or someone else!

  70. 1.22.13
    Hannah said:

    I follow all 3 on facebook!

  71. 1.22.13
    Angie said:

    As a medical student, I’ve been working with a group at my school (University of Illinois!) to increase health awareness in our community. We’ve been offering blood pressure screenings at local events, teaching kids about the importance of nutrition and exercise and attacking major health issues like diabetes and obesity. Its been great getting to know the people in our community better, and is a great way for us to learn too!

  72. 1.22.13
    Angie said:

    I also follow all three on fb!

  73. 1.22.13
    Iniray said:

    As a elementary school teacher, I try to make my students aware of their community as much as possible even when they are 7 and 8. I want them to have global awareness even if they don’t get to leave their community that often. This is often because their families do not have the money or the time (many work more than one job). Last year my team and I were able to give our students some really great experiences outside their community through some grant funding and fundraising our community. We, as a school, try to expose our students to a variety of cultural experiences so that they are prepared for the world beyond the classroom.

  74. 1.22.13
    Iniray said:

    I also liked all three on FB. Thanks for this great giveaway 🙂

  75. 1.22.13
    Ashley said:

    I volunteer at the humane society and American resue league. While volunteering I take the homeless animals on walks, play with them and feed them. I also shelter dogs that have been in the shelters too long to avoid anything happening to them while they are still waiting to find their owner.

  76. 1.22.13
    Shikha said:

    I recently helped my husband organize a toys for tots event for children in a local mall. The participation of the community was overwhelming. I also take time on weekends to go to soup kitchens through a local temple and work with fellow volunteers.

  77. 1.22.13
    Carly S said:

    I organize community service (Habitat for Humanity, Adopt-a-Highway, etc) for other college students for them to find a way to get connected to their new community. I think it is important for them to understand how they make a difference in the community that houses their university.

  78. 1.22.13
    Carly S said:

    I have liked all three on Facebook!

  79. 1.22.13
    Carrie said:

    I work for a Community Foundation that makes great things happen in our community. Through individual grants and grant initiatives we support education, basic human needs and economic development. We believe in ACTION to make change and are doing so through a community arts & culture initiative which supports our local organizations and artists, a youth leadership program encouraging philanthropy, staff volunteer days with local non-profits, and so many more programs!

  80. 1.22.13
    Carrie said:

    I also liked all three on facebook. Thanks for this awesome giveaway opportunity!!

  81. 1.22.13

    At my office we do weekly donations for all types of organizations. I always try to lend my support by not only donating money, but also volunteering to take up the donations.

  82. 1.22.13

    I also ‘LIKED’ all 3 of these on FB! Great giveaway!

  83. 1.22.13
    Ally N. said:

    I work for a health care nonprofit in the special events area, so my life 24/7 is event planning for fundraisers to support diabetes research, advocacy, and awareness! So, my life is planning these events, providing information, and fundrasing. I work on two “free to participate” fundraising walks that raise about $400,000 and a cycling event that is set to raise $1 million this spring! In addition to all the event planning, we host programs in our community to raise awareness about diabetes as a disease (Did you know that diabetes kills more people in the US than AIDS AND breast cancer combined? Probably not! People tend to shame this disease). These programs are free to anyone who wants to attend, which is amazing because it’s a direct benefit of some of our fundraising efforts. To put change into action, we encourage healthy exercising habits (walking, cycling) to benefit those living with diabetes.

    This contest is amazing because I am seeing SO many other women here who clearly work for nonprofits, and I love that!

    In addition, I am a big advocate of These Numbers Have Faces, which I donate to as often as I can when I have $. (I work for a nonprofit. Clearly, I don’t work for $. Cue Kristin Wig, “Help me! I’m poor!”). TNHF is based out of Cape Town, South Africa which provides scholarships and mentorship to students of disadvantaged backgrounds to attend university. Though this is outside of my community, I am so connected to Cape Town because I spent 13 months living there and tutored high school students in a township community. I believe in this organization so much because these students deserve so much more than they get, and education truly can change a life. Giving them the opportunity for education is life-changing.

    P.S. I liked all three on Facebook!

  84. 1.22.13
    Michelle said:

    I actually work for the local government as a city planner, so everyday we work to make the built environment a better place and to protect the health and safety of our citizens!

  85. 1.22.13
    Michelle said:

    Liked all on Facebook as well, thanks for the opportunity!

  86. 1.22.13
    Michelle said:

    I make an effort to volunteer whenever I have an open weekend. I enjoy volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. I like that it is “a hand up not a hand out” and that they form relationships with the homeowners, teaching them to manage their finances and put time into their own homes!

    Michelle

  87. 1.22.13
    Michelle said:

    I also already like all three pages on Facebook!

  88. 1.22.13
    emily said:

    My family does a lot of volunteer work and my stepdad is the president of SafetyTown, which helps young children ages 5-9 learn proper safety precautions. It is just small things that some parents forget to instruct their kids on such as how to cross in a cross walk, stop signs and other traffic related rules. In my town there are a lot of schools that are surrounded by neighborhoods, so kids tend to walk to school. Knowing these precautions and rules helps keep them a little safer! it makes my heart happy when I see sweet little kids knowing to look both ways and what to do before crossing the street!

  89. 1.22.13
    emily said:

    I also already follow Bows + Sequins and Loft on Facebook! Thanks for the giveaway! xo

  90. 1.22.13
    Lan said:

    I’m currently involved with a girls empowerment program called Girls on the Run. It encourages girls grades 3-8 to join in running and life lessons, coached by volunteers, twice a week. These weekly practices leading up to an end of season 5K. The girls all really seem to enjoy coming together at the end and are so proud of themselves for this wonderful accomplishment! I wish they had something like this when I was younger.

    *Also I liked the additional pages. Thanks so much! I love your blog for outfit ideas!

  91. 1.22.13
    Janiece said:

    I volunteer at the local middle school and help them plant their garden every year!

  92. 1.22.13
    Janiece said:

    I liked everyone on fbook 🙂

  93. 1.22.13

    BEST. GIVEAWAY. EVER. I work for a large real estate company in FL, each Christmas I team up all of our office locations with The Salvation Army’s ‘Angel Tree’ initiative to collect toys for children in need. Even in this rough economy I love seeing all our agents and co-workers give what they have to others. It’s a rewarding accomplishment and something I plan on continuing in the years to come!

    Thanks for the opportunity!

    xo
    Kristin
    Kristin[at]LivingInColorPrint[dot]com
    http://www.LivingInColorPrint.com

  94. 1.22.13

    done, done, & done [already ‘like’ all 3 of these awesome pages!]

    xo
    Kristin
    Kristin[at]LivingInColorPrint[dot]com
    http://www.LivingInColorPrint.com

  95. 1.22.13
    nithin Agarwal said:

    I volunteer as a mentor at my university and work with student by guiding them and preparing them for the real world challenges. I make them realize that there is more than the college curriculum that they learn and help them identify their unique skills and help them hone so they can stand out from others. I am fortunate to have this opportunity and gives me immense satisfaction.

    Liked all on facebook!

  96. 1.22.13
    Shelby said:

    I am in the process of organizing a free career fair & free informative seminars (salary negotiation, interview tips, selling your skill set, resume writing) that will lend a helping hand to those who are trying to further their career and for those who are just beginning to entering the work force!
    Such a great giveaway! I liked all three pages as well 🙂
    xoxo
    Shelby

  97. 1.22.13
    Ellen said:

    There are organizations dear to my heart including Kate Kwasny Memorial Scholarship Foundation, American Brain Tumor Association and American Lung Cancer Association so annually I partake in or plan events to support these causes within my community. Bringing awareness to these causes are very important! In addition, this past Christmas I hosted a dinner in which approximately 50 gifts were gathered for Toys for Tots in the Chicagoland area as well as sponsored seven children in the Letters to Santa program in Chicago. As I study to be a teacher, I hope to be able to be involved in many more activities within my community in the future!

  98. 1.22.13
    Patricia said:

    I volunteer my grant writing skills to non profits in the arts community

  99. 1.22.13
    Ellen said:

    Liked all three! 🙂

  100. 1.22.13
    Amanda said:

    My Dad is super involved in Kiwanis and I’ve helped out many times in the community. It’s really enjoyable to volunteer at the annual Christmas party that helps provide games and gifts to less fortunate families in the community. The look on a child’s face to see they are going to receive a present from Santa after all- pivotal. It brings a new awareness to our fortunate lifestyles.

  101. 1.22.13
    Amanda said:

    I follow on facebook, too. 🙂

  102. 1.22.13
    Leah said:

    I volunteer with my sorority (Kappa Delta) as an alum!

  103. 1.22.13
    Amanda said:

    I am helping my workplace organize ways to give back to the community –this includes volunteering at soup kitchens, warm coat donations, etc.

    I liked all three pages on FB too!

  104. 1.22.13
    Carrie said:

    I work at a Christian radio station that reaches thousands of people each day. I like to think that having positive and encouraging music in peoples’ lives can help impact lives for the better. I also work with the station to do community outreach programs. One of my favorites is called the Drive Thru Difference- we encourage listeners to pay for the person behind them while in line at a Drive Thru. Its a really neat random act of kindness that boosts everyone’s day. 🙂

  105. 1.22.13
    Amanda said:

    I am a pediatric RN at a large children’s hospital. I not only care for sick children, including those with cancer and mental health issues, but I also care for the entire family. Having a sick child affects everyone in a family, and I feel it is important to take time to encourage them through this child. Making sure everyone gets there needs met is tough but so very rewarding.

  106. 1.22.13
    Amanda said:

    Oh, and I follow all 3 on facebook 😉

  107. 1.22.13

    What a generous giveaway! I currently work with children with disabilities in the Seattle area and volunteer to take them on weekend outings, which is really fun and has taught me patience, and to be grateful for what I have. I’ve learned not to sweat the small stuff.

  108. 1.22.13
    Lauren Broadway Lawson said:

    I am an active donor of United Way of Williamson County and also serve as a fundraising committee member for this organization.

  109. 1.22.13
    Lauren Broadway Lawson said:

    I also met all of the follow requirements

  110. 1.22.13
    Andrea Darst said:

    A small thing, but I do all that I can to support local animal shelters and encourage everyone to adopt!

  111. 1.22.13
    Andrea Darst said:

    Liked all 3 on Facebook

  112. 1.22.13
    Amy said:

    I volunteer with Girls on the Run, a national organization that coaches elementary school girls on health, fitness, self esteem, community, and team-building. I got involved to help young girls reach for the stars, but the inspiration works both ways, believe me. They never cease to amaze me!

  113. 1.22.13
    Amy said:

    I already like Bows & Sequins on Facebook.

  114. 1.22.13
    Sami said:

    I am hoping to start being a foster mom for a dog shelter in my area!

  115. 1.22.13
    Sami said:

    I liked all 3 Facebook pages!

  116. 1.22.13
    Corissa D said:

    For the past year, I have been working in a domestic violence shelter on the South Side of Chicago to promote health and wellness. After surviving a 3.5 year abusive relationship myself, I realized how much physical fitness helped me deal with the trauma in a healthy way instead of resorting to drugs or self-harm. I have been bringing this logic to my clients in various ways to increase their health, but also to increase their confidence. I do this by holding weekly fitness groups (zumba, yoga, hip-hop dancing, line dancing, etc.) as well as healthy cooking classes. I also frequently will work with clients one-on-one in their apartments to talk about health, debunk diet myths, and to work out with them. For mental health, I have been helping several clients with tutoring in order for them to obtain their GEDs. I have also worked with several clients on resumes for job opportunities.

    Aside from just working with the women, I also have worked with their children through tutoring and fitness sessions. Many of the kids are behind in their studies from being uprooted from their homes in order for their family to escape the abusive partner. I’ve talked with many of the kids on my own (many of them have behavioral problems) so they have someone outside of their family that they can talk to about school, family issues, and personal problems. I have been able to work over 200 hours at the shelter while also attending medical school.

    My clients mean the WORLD to me and I strongly believe that by improving their health both physically and mentally, they are one step closer to rising above the horrible injustice that has been done to them.

    • 1.22.13
      Corissa D said:

      Whoops– sorry- entered too early. I am extremely dedicated to working with underserved populations in Chicago— aside from working at Family Rescue, I also help run Haymarket Clinic, an acute care clinic for substance abusers and incarcerated mothers seeking detoxification therapy, and volunteer as a Spanish interpreter for a free health clinic for those below the poverty line. I hope to use my medical degree to continue working with the underserved!

      I also liked all three pages!

  117. 1.22.13
    Alison J. said:

    I work at a non-profit animal welfare organization, so I am always raising awareness around important animal issues. Right now, one of the biggest issues we’re tackling is the high number of homeless animals that enter local shelters each year. Through promoting adoption instead of buying a pet at a pet store, we’ve been able to increase adoptions this past year.

  118. 1.22.13
    Alison J. said:

    I already like all three pages on Facebook 🙂

  119. 1.22.13
    Lesly C said:

    We always volunteer at the animal shelter.

  120. 1.22.13
    Lesly C said:

    Liked all 3 pages!

  121. 1.22.13
    Amy said:

    I volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters in my community and am currently mentoring a 6 year old girl. The most rewarding part of this experience thus far has been tutoring her in reading after school. Her reading has jumped 2 levels since we started! I’ve seen her confidence grow by leaps and bounds and I know that I am helping to empower this young girl now and in the future. Change starts with one person!

  122. 1.22.13
    Amy said:

    I also “liked” all 3 pages on Facebook.

  123. 1.22.13
    Lauren said:

    My friends and I started a new Women’s Club in our community with service/volunteering as our main priority. We have sponsored numerous charity events and donated all proceeds to our local SafeHarbor, a women’s shelter.

  124. 1.22.13
    Lee said:

    I have run 2 half marathons and 1 marathon with the NYC Chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training, and I have raised about $7,000 to fund crucial blood cancer research. I am running another full marathon with the team this spring!

  125. 1.22.13
    Lee said:

    I liked Ann Taylor, Loft, and Bows and Sequins on Facebook too!

  126. 1.22.13
    Ashne said:

    I volunteer at the local church school and also at my son’s preschool.

  127. 1.22.13
    Stefanie Gladden ( Ann Lyfe ) said:

    I volunteer at food drives, and our high school functions!

  128. 1.22.13
    Stefanie Gladden ( Ann Lyfe ) said:

    also liked on facebook – Ann Lyfe

  129. 1.22.13
    Brittney Hill said:

    I am a big sister in Big Brother Big Sisters of America to an almost 13 year old girl. We meet a few times a month and I am a mentor and a friend to her. She’s able to open up to me about things she may not talk to others about. She has also opened my eyes to what it’s like to grow up in a different environment than I did and how many children are out there growing up in the same way she is.

    I followed on facebook. Thanks!
    Brittney Hill

  130. 1.22.13
    Cali said:

    I volunteer as a leader for my church at youth activities each week. I spend a lot of time preparing for the activities as well. I love it!!

  131. 1.22.13
    Leigh Anne said:

    I am a pharmacist in a small town. I try to inspire change in my patients for healthier living and therefore visiting me less. I also have 3 small kids and I am trying to raise them to be amazing human beings to impact the world long after I am gone!

  132. 1.22.13
    Courtney said:

    I’m a first grade teacher and my job everyday is working towards making my community a better place one 6 year old at a time! I pride myself on teaching my little ones how to be well-rounded, independent, and responsible thinkers. I have even taught them how to blog so that we can communicate with others digitally! This is an amazing opportunity through ANNpower!

  133. 1.22.13
    Courtney said:

    I also like Bows and Sequins on Facebook, Ann Taylor and Loft;-)

    • 1.22.13
      Courtney said:

      And the 26th is my birthday…how cool would it be if I won on my birthday?!? Lol just sayin’…

  134. 1.22.13
    Tracy said:

    i am teaching toddlers how to have fun with music so that when they grow up, they won’t be afraid to sing or dance in front of others.

  135. 1.22.13
    Rise Isom said:

    I volunteer at the Hope Community Center. It is a faith-based place that helps those in need with counsel, food, home goods and clothing.

  136. 1.22.13
    tracy r said:

    Recently, I partnered up with Project Sticker Share to inform community members that purchasing and serving alcohol to minors is illegal. My 9th grade students and I labeled bottles at at a local Rite-Aid to promote alcohol prevention education for community members. The hope is that the sticker on the bottle will make people think twice and change the social culture!

  137. 1.22.13

    In my spare time, I run a non-profit organization that works to empower children and youth and provide for their basic social and educational needs. Everyone can do their small part! x

  138. 1.22.13

    I liked on Facebook! Thank you for this amazing giveaway! x

  139. 1.22.13
    Jennifer B. said:

    During college my sorority volunteered and donated to several organizations, but the ones that I was particularly were those that supported eating disorder awareness. It’s years after college, but I still try to donate to those organizations and am pursuing volunteer opportunities. I know it’s small, but I’m hoping to become more involved!

  140. 1.22.13
    Jennifer B. said:

    And I follow all 3 on Facebook!

  141. 1.22.13
    Treva S. said:

    I am currently serving in the United States Air Force. Monthly I donate supplies and clothing to the local Women & Children shelter. I also assist with mentoring young women on interviewing and job search skills. I have been appointed as a Child Development Center’s Multidisciplinary representative; in which I’m responsible for inspecting and ensuring child care providers are in compliance with the Department of Defense’s child care and environment standards as they provide care to military dependents. Child care is very important to me as I am a mother of two. Although my job as a military member and Mom are very demanding, I love to get out to support and be involved in the local community. You can never give too much of yourself!

  142. 1.23.13
    Alice said:

    I’m currently a student in pharmacy school and am one of the founding members of a new organization. The purpose of this new group is to help educate the indigent in our community about the importance of health and maintaining your medications and offering various health services to young children, under-educated adults, and the elderly. With this experience, I am hoping to serve my community with the knowledge I am taught at my school and improve the health of everyone around me.

  143. 1.23.13
    Alice said:

    I also liked all 3 Facebook pages. 🙂

  144. 1.23.13
    Jodi Brown said:

    I am a stay at home mom who was a 1 st grade teacher, so I continue to spread my love of teaching by tutoring kids in my neighborhood.

    Jodi
    [email protected]

  145. 1.23.13
    Jodi Brown said:

    I like you all on Facebook! 🙂

    Jodi
    [email protected]

  146. 1.23.13
    Blessie Nelson said:

    I am serving the homeless and underprivileged people who can’t afford health insurance by bringing quality medical care they desperately need every week.

  147. 1.23.13
    Blessie Nelson said:

    liked all 3 on FB – Blessie Nelson

  148. 1.23.13
    Treva S. said:

    I don’t have a facebook account to “Like” Bows & Sequins, Ann Taylor, or Loft, but I do follow Bows & Sequins on Instagram and Twitter, but I haven’t found any official Instagram or Twitter accounts for Ann Taylor or Loft.

  149. 1.23.13
    Courtney said:

    I’m continuing my career as a dietitian in the eating disorder treatment field. Giving hope and helping to restore a happy, healthy life makes it worth it at the end of the day! 🙂

  150. 1.23.13
    Courtney said:

    I liked all 3 on Facebook (Courtney Elizabeth)! 🙂

  151. 1.23.13
    Karri said:

    I am a teacher who molds the minds of the youth and make them productive, honorable members of society. I educate the. For their future so that they will make a difference. I also liked all three pages

  152. 1.23.13
    Tina B said:

    I volunteer at my children’s school and also gather and donate clothing and food several times a year. It’s a small thing but it could help someone else in a big way.

  153. 1.23.13
    Tina B said:

    Also like all three on FB :)- Tina Bowling

  154. 1.23.13
    Drea B said:

    As a female engineer, I am always trying to inspire young women to become engineers. This weekend I’ll be volunteering at an Engineering event in my home city — Philadelphia!

  155. 1.23.13
    Katie said:

    I love this! As a twirling coach for a middle school team this year I implemented monthly leadership and positivity classes to motivate the girls to be the best they can be – these include how to act (and how NOT to act) on social media, bullying, how to be a role model and more! So fun to teach and empower young women to be their absolute best and it keeps me on my toes to be a positive role model to them!

  156. 1.23.13
    Katie said:

    I also like Bows and Sequins, Ann Taylor and Loft on facebook!

  157. 1.23.13
    sarah bailie said:

    I also liked all three on facebook!

  158. 1.23.13
    Deanna G. said:

    I, unfortunately, am not doing anything currently.

  159. 1.23.13
    Deanna G. said:

    I like all three pages on Facebook. (Deanna Cali)

  160. 1.23.13
    Kris T. said:

    My friend and I set up a small company to host recreational athletic games on the weekends. We are both busy with full time jobs during the week, but the experience has been absolutely fantastic. Not only are we offering people in our community of all ages opportunities to meet new people, try new sports, and be physically active, but we have also taken on an “intern”. A high school girl helps us set up equipment, run timers, and keep score. She is learning some basic business skills, getting out of the house on the weekends, and interacting with new people. We hope to expand the types of sports we offer, the number of community members involved, the locations we host events at, and take on new interns in this new year!

    I am making changes in my community and liked all three pages. Big thanks to you and ANNpower for such a wonderful giveaway -my fingers are crossed!

  161. 1.23.13
    Elyse G. said:

    I teach Sunday school and I also volunteer on a bi-weekly basis for a program that works to end childhood hunger in my community. *fingers crossed*

  162. 1.23.13
    Elyse G. said:

    I also like all 3! *fingers crossed*

  163. 1.23.13
    Beki Martin said:

    I volunteer as a mentor for at-risk middle school Chicago kids in an after school science program offered in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club. The goal is to give kids hands-on lab experience and help them develop a passion and understanding of science and science careers.
    I’ll be telling my high school helper about the ANNpower challenge!

  164. 1.23.13
    Beki Martin said:

    Liked all 3 on facebook! Thanks for the giveaway

  165. 1.23.13
    Lindsay said:

    I try to make my community better by doing random acts of kindness. You never know what the effect that ‘little’ thing you do has on someone else.

  166. 1.23.13
    Lindsay said:

    Liked all three!

  167. 1.23.13
    Laura said:

    Fabulous giveaway!

    I’ve started volunteering again as a dog walker at my local animal shelter. A lot of these animals are neglected and have been in a kennel for months. Although they love the walks we go out on, I know they’d much rather prefer a forever home. So I also promote the dogs (and kitties) and hope someone will want to or know of someone who would love to adopt a new friend.

    I liked Bows and Sequins, Ann Taylor, and Loft on Facebook.

  168. 1.24.13
    Heidi Bewley said:

    In order to put change into action in my community, I perform and contribute to my university’s theatre. Many people these days and especially in the particular area I reside, haven’t had the opportunity to ever experience the wonderful benefits that theatre can provide. I enjoy being able to touch peoples’ lives and believe that it has the power to influence each and every person in a unique way.
    Liked all 3 on FB 🙂

  169. 1.24.13
    MC Chau said:

    Every year I organize a volunteering event in my company to help out at a local homeless shelter. Rather than doing the usual task of serving a meal, we usually pick an area of the shelter to remodel and paint. The employees and the residents at the shelter are always so grateful to have our help in giving them a better place to work and live. These annual projects have really helped open both my eyes and my colleagues eyes to the less fortunate in our community and the trials they go through to get back on their feet.

  170. 1.24.13
    MC Chau said:

    I liked all three Facebook pages under MC Chau. Thank you for this amazing giveaway!

    mcchaublog at gmail dot com

  171. 1.24.13
    Jenny said:

    I am currently teaching religious instruction to young people. I also help seniors at the community center who want to learn more about online marketing, branding and printing for their businesses. Many older people have experience and knowledge to offer but need to know how to put it out there.

  172. 1.24.13
    Jennifer P said:

    I am a lawyer and I do pro bono work helping immigrant women in abusive marriages apply for citizenship through a federal program called VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) . It encourages them to not stay in the abusive marriage just because their husband is the key to citizenship and they are afraid of being deported if they leave him.

  173. 1.24.13
    Jennifer P said:

    I like all 3 of you on facebook! Thanks for the opportunity!

  174. 1.24.13
    Samantha said:

    I liked all three pages on Facebook under my personal page, Samantha Muse.

  175. 1.24.13
    Whiney said:

    This past summer I raised money for Team for Kids – a nonprofit that promotes youth to build a healthy, active and confident life through running.

    I’ve also been a run buddy for Girls on the Run 5K.

    Thank you for introducing ANNpower – look forward to checking them out more.

  176. 1.24.13
    Whiney said:

    Liked everyone on Facebook!

  177. 1.24.13
    Emma said:

    “What are you currently doing to put change into action in your community?”

    I am currently a high school biology teacher in a very diverse community. Most of my students come from rough family lives and I am trying my best to make sure that they feel welcome in my classroom and leave with a little inspiration to go do something positive that matters to them. Sometimes all it takes is a smile and to let a student know that you care about them as a person inside and outside of the classroom.

    Thanks for your time reading my little blurb, now it is time to grade!

    Emma

  178. 1.24.13
    Emma said:

    liked all three on facebook too!

  179. 1.25.13
    sarah said:

    a huge passion is animals- (the homeless ones need love too) our local humane society partners with regional transport groups to move animals out of kill shelters to rescue groups or other shelters where they can have a new chance at being rehabilitated or found by their forever homes!

  180. 1.25.13
    sarah said:

    liked all 3 on Facebook! thanks for the generous giveaway!

  181. 1.25.13
    Allison D said:

    “What are you currently doing to put change into action in your community?”

    I recently moved about 30 minutes away from the college town I went to school in. I am trying to get more involved in the local community by volunteering time at schools and other organizations. I used to be a pre-school teacher and no how vital reaching children at a young age is. I also frequent my old sorority from time to time and inspire young women to get involved and take action. Whether it may be trying to help them get involved or just giving them advice (I know I needed it in college).

  182. 1.25.13
    Allison D said:

    I “Like” Bows & Sequins, Ann Taylor, and LOFT on Facebook. Facebook @Allison Ducey

  183. 1.25.13
    mode said:

    liked on fb!

  184. 1.25.13
    lala r said:

    i volunteer in activities for coast guard wives

  185. 1.25.13
    lala r said:

    fb likers of all @lala ramos
    amramazon280 at yahoo dot com

  186. 1.25.13

    I like all 3 on Facebook 🙂

  187. 1.25.13
    Elisabeth said:

    When my husband and I go on walks in our community we like to bring bags with us to pick the garbage on the side of the road… sometimes it only takes one, or in our case two people to make a change!

  188. 1.25.13
    Elisabeth said:

    I also like all 3 pages! 🙂

  189. 1.26.13
    Laura said:

    I volunteer in 15 5ks a year in my local community. Some support bigger causes such as JDRF ACS or Susan G Komen, but I make sure that 12 of them are for local causes in my community. I also just recently started a blog and am trying got use it to help local restaurants, stores and other small businesses iny community get their name out there. I eventually hope that as it grows I can use it to so more good and promote more charities such as helping children and the elderly in the community get outside and become more active.
    [email protected]
    http://www.walkinginmemphisinhighheels.com

    I liked all three on Facebook. : )

  190. 1.26.13
    courtney d said:

    i try to volunteer and donate whenever possible

  191. 1.26.13
    sarah said:

    liked all 3 on Facebook. thanks!!

  192. 1.27.13
    Sarah Hirsch said:

    I’m starting at home – I am trying to build strength and confidence in my daughter. You always want your children to be the best they can be, and it really starts with the parent. I want to give my daughter all of the opportunities I can, and help her become a leader.

  193. 1.28.13
    Jessica Sturdy said:

    Thank you ALL SO SO MUCH for entering! I am beyond inspired by all of these entries! I am so honored that you all take the time out of your busy schedules to read Bows & Sequins. It was so hard to pick only five winners!!

    1. Marina Stiefvater
    2. Becky
    3. Carly S
    4. Danielle
    5. Kris T.

    Look out for an email shortly!

  194. 1.29.13
    Danielle said:

    Jessica, I am beyond excited & humbled… it is so exciting to win something for simply doing something I love and am so passionate about. That is so great your dad is a vet and that you are an animal lover yourself 🙂 Again, I cannot get enough of Bows & Sequins but it inspires me so much that you use your platform to partner with great causes like ANN, Inc!

    Thank you!!!!!

  195. 6.26.13
    Hip said:

    🙂 I also like Bows and Sequins on Facebook, Ann Taylor and Loft.

    Baby