"Your hour | Her Power" is more than a campaign...

...it's a chance to change the lives of others. 20 years ago I began my journey in corporate america as a bright-eyed intern ready to be the best cost accountant you've ever seen. This was my first corporate experience and I had no idea what I was getting into. A lot has happened in the two decades since that I could not have predicted...the people I'd encounter, the experiences I'd have and lessons I'd learn that shape the woman I am today. One thing reigns true - I had a lot of support along the way. And to borrow a quote one of my favorite fabulous boss woman leaders, Rochelle Rivas MBA~PHR , "thank you for lifting me, so I can lift others".

When Dress for Success Charlotte reached out about the "Your Hour Her Power" campaign it was a no brainer to join this esteemed group of women to advance the organization's mission - help women create economic independence. Donating one hour of my pay and encouraging others to do so are easy ways to make an impact - all IN! When reflecting on my own journey, it isn't only the tools and resources that helped me. It is also the time afforded to me - time sharing advice, feedback, encouragement, gratitude...the power of a simple "I see you"...I'm thinking of you"..."I'm proud of you" or simply, "I'm here." It is the ongoing sponsorship, support and connectivity I feel with those in my ecosystem.

For those reasons, I couldn't simply send an email to ask people to join me in donating an hour of their pay...I had to level up with my efforts and insert creativity, fun and engagement. I worked with Orville Harmon Jr. and Annie O'Neill to conduct a "Carmen San Diego inspired" billboard challenge with my local team to benefit Dress for Success and a charity of their choosing. It was fun connecting as a team around the causes we all care about!

I also collaborated with Krystal Magazine, CPA, PMP to host the "Dress Your Heart" Women's History Month Celebration to benefit Dress for Success Charlotte and CLT Go Red for Women. We played Women's History Month trivia, were inspired by words from our event sponsor Jamila Abston Mayfield of the The Jamila Mayfield Group, LLC , networked to music and experienced a few "special performances" to raise funds and awareness for these important causes. The memories were captured as a courtesy of Damany " Smiley" Mayfield of Au Naturale Photography Services in support of the cause :-)

As I looked around the room at all the people who intentionally came out on a rainy night for a cause, it was clear the difference that just one hour (technically two) can have on a person's life, specifically mine. Last week was a demanding one and the "Dress your heart" event was the moment I needed to restore my energy. I was reminded:

1. No one gets anywhere on their own and authentic sponsorship is ongoing.
2. People who want to show up for you, will show up for you swiftly and unapologetically.
3. Generosity and kindness are infectious! #startgoodtrends
4. Life's greatest joy is to be of service to others.
5. Legacy is simple. Make the life of another person better.

Thank you to all have supported the campaign, the event and me personally over the years. It is a privilege and responsibility to pay it forward. It's not too late to JOIN ME in my ambition to provide 20 women access to the tools and resources for one year! The campaign runs through March 31st 2024. Click the link to donate and select "21 - Megan Turner" for tracking. DFSC (givesmart.com).

Let's make a legacy of supporting women together.

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M.

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