by Lydia Hearst
Lydia walks the red carpet at Operation Smile's NYC event.
Saving the lives of children is the ultimate goal of Operation Smile. For those of us working in fashion, it is very easy to add your name to a committee list, walk a red carpet, and claim to care. But taking tangible, hands-on steps to create change speaks volumes. This is where the real change happens.
I had the opportunity to go on a mission in March of 2009. I developed a strong, intimate bond with every child, family, and volunteer during my short time on the mission. Though it is difficult to put into words the feelings of the heart, being on a mission changed my perspective and made me take a step back and reevaluate my priorities and personal objectives.
Looking into the eyes of children who have been affected by facial deformities such as cleft lip and cleft palates, witnessing first-hand the look of concern and worry in their parents’ eyes, one cannot help but be moved to do everything within his or her power to help and show support in any way possible.
The slogan of Operation Smile is one that every member of the volunteer program lives by, the simple concept of changing lives one smile at a time. The event held in New York each year is one of the largest fund-raisers for this cause. This year we were able to raise over $125,000, which will go to help volunteers perform over 500 surgeries and fund a mission.
The event here in Manhattan gave me the opportunity to invite some of my oldest and closest friends to learn about the organization and become actively involved. It was also a chance to see fellow committee members and other volunteers. The speeches given throughout the evening were truly moving and hopefully influenced others to want to help and donate. On a night like this, it is about individuals coming together for the greater good of helping others. Yes, there are boldfaced names, beautiful dresses, and a red-carpet entrance; my purpose with Operation Smile is to raise awareness, help others to get involved, donate, and to continue volunteering for future missions to aid anyone in areas which I may be of use. Anyone can show up somewhere and look good; it takes a unique individual to attend something selflessly and be willing to make a donation or work toward changing the lives of others and make a difference in the world.
