For decades, 93-year-old Bette Ann Leider had a simple piece of advice for her daughter, Sheryl Kurland: “If you want to feel better, just put on a little lipstick.” Those words of wisdom did more than boost Kurland’s confidence—they became the foundation of a nationwide movement to empower domestic violence survivors.
Inspired by her mother’s message, Kurland launched Find Your Fabulosity, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women reclaim their confidence and self-worth. Since its inception, the organization has donated over 108,000 lipsticks to domestic violence shelters across the United States, offering survivors a symbol of hope as they begin rebuilding their lives.
The brand-new, unopened lipsticks are donated by individuals, cosmetics brands, and corporate initiatives, then shipped to 300 women’s shelters in all 50 states. Shelter staff distribute them to residents who have escaped abusive situations, providing a small but powerful reminder that they are valuable, beautiful, and worthy of a fresh start.
“These lipsticks are more than just makeup,” says Kurland. “They’re a sign that these women matter. At their lowest points, they’ve told us that receiving a lipstick gave them a spark of hope in the darkest times.”
For Bette Ann Leider, the impact of her words has been humbling. “These women haven’t looked in the mirror in a long time. They’ve been abused,” she says. “Now, with these lipsticks, it’s a new beginning for them. From the lipstick, they move to a little makeup, to maybe wearing brighter colors. It’s a journey.”
Through Find Your Fabulosity, Kurland has turned her mother’s simple beauty tip into a movement that is changing lives, one lipstick at a time. To learn more or support the cause, visit findyourfabulosity.org.