SANTA MONICA, CA (July 28, 2010): Giving back is not only fashionable,  studies show that people who volunteer just 2 hours per week, have several benefits including higher self-esteem.

To heighten awareness of this fact, KooDooZ Corporation shaped an empowerment workshop at HARTNELL design studio with LIFE REVOLUTION, as part of the Passport to Wellness campaign.  The Passport is designed to generate positive behavioral and social change by asking families to take on community challenges.

On Saturday, July 31, 2010, designer Hanna Hartnell will host a “Behind the Seams – Redefining Beauty” event for 20 girls at her studio in Santa Monica. The purpose of this event is to help girls realize that to “measure-up” all they need to do is unlock their potential. Participants (girls ages 9 through 15) will learn fashion basics and will apply their new skills by designing Caring Cards with HARTNELL special event gown fabrics.  Youth who are unable to attend the physical events are invited to create their own Caring Cards for eventual donation the American Red Cross of Santa Monica on September 11th, 2010.

“Hanna is a visionary in the world of fashion and philanthropy,” said Lee Fox, founder of KooDooZ a cause-based social networking site for kids. “She has always put community first and it's nice to see her expand the Behind the Seams program to also educate future young designers about how they can have a healthy relationship with fashion, and give back to their communities.”

According to a national study conducted by Dove, 92% of girls want to change their appearance and 70% feel they do not measure up in some way. Additionally, 90% say that the fashion industry (89%) and/or the media (88%) place a lot of pressure on them to look a certain way.

“LIFE REVOLUTION is excited to help these young girls learn how to set emotional boundaries, prioritize life activities, listen to their bodies for signs of stress and quiet their mind through these workshops,” said Clark Souers, founder and president of LIFE REVOLUTION. "The outcome of this workshop will give the participants a better sense of self."

A second similar workshop will run on September 11th which will culminate in the donation of all the Caring Cards to the American Red Cross of Santa Monica for the benefit of men and women who have fought for this country. 

“Hanna Hartnell has been an avid supporter of the American Red Cross of Santa Monica for many years,” said John Pacheco, CEO of the American Red Cross of Santa Monica. “Our organization deeply values the fact that these hand-made cards will connect kids to a cause they may not have otherwise considered.”

By engaging the girls in a meaningful and productive activity that benefits a greater good, it is clear that there will also be a benefit to their psychological well-being. Over the past two decades, a growing body of research indicates that people who volunteer at young ages see health and academic benefits later in life.

“These two events will teach girls that through their own creativity and generosity, they can gain the confidence in recognizing that beauty should be defined by what they do versus how they look,” said fashion designer, Hanna Hartnell. “It’s behind the seams that matters.”

To learn more about these workshop activities, the Passport to Wellness, and how to involve kids in community challenges, please email info@KooDooZ.com or visit us on the web.