Maria's Closet--Where fairy godmothers really exist. (Glass slipper not included.)

In 1697, French writer Charles Perrault was the first author to produce a published version of a well-known fairy tale later retold in the 19th Century by the Brothers Grimm.  It was the story of Cindrellon (later Cinderella), who, despite her beauty and aristocratic birth, was raised by a cruel stepmother and two abusive older stepsisters.  When the family was invited to a royal ball, Cinderella was unable to attend because she lacked a gown.  In 1950 Walt Disney popularized the tale once again with his magical animated motion picture set to catchy music. 

The story's enduring theme tugs at our heart because we feel the ache of a beautiful teenager excluded from a prestigious social event because of  unsuitable attire.  The story of Cinderella plays out in real life throughout America.  Imagine the hurt and embarrasment of a budding young woman having to turn down a date for the Junior/Senior prom because her father is out of work and the family has no money for extras.

Enter a compassionate businesswoman named Ronna Luna, who created a fairy godmother shop called Maria's Closet.  Located in San Pedro, CA, this unusual non-profit provides to needy young women: free new or nearly new formal wear, accessories, hair and make-up for Prom in a fun, carefree environment that inspires today’s young women to experience Prom with confidence. The fast-paced physical and emotional demands of high school, lack of financial resources and the pressures of today’s social media culture, can impact confidence and self-esteem in young women. Senior year is a special time for teens. It is filled with iconic senior events like prom, grad night, class breakfasts, picnics, and trips — not to mention senior photos, yearbook ads, SAT’s, college applications, campus visits, college decisions and finally, graduation. As fun and exciting as all of these whirlwind activities and hallmark occasions are, they also mount up to some pretty hefty financial woes and stress which can lead to missing out on that last dance."

Founder Luna says, "At Maria's Closet, we don't let the cost of prom weigh young women in our community down. We empower them -- after all, it takes a village! We know that no senior wants to miss out on activities and events that they have been waiting for since the first day of freshman year! That's why Maria's Closet is empowering young women, one gown at a time!"  Three cheers for this special service, not to mention the mice, the birds and the pumpkin.   (Maria's Closet will be represented today by the organization's board member Rosa Pesenti.)  

Introduction by Suzy Zimmerman.  Enjoy breakfast at Rotary.  This is a feel-good program.   Bring a guest.