In this episode of Getting to the Heart, I sit down with Kelly Fennelly—founder of the Little Black Dress Party (LBDP)—to talk about resilience, reinvention, and the extraordinary ways one woman’s courage can ripple out to change lives. Kelly’s own devastating divorce brought her face-to-face with the financial and legal barriers that keep so many women stuck in unsafe or unhealthy marriages. Instead of letting that experience define her, she transformed her pain into purpose. That decision gave rise to The Little Black Dress Party—a high-energy charity that blends fashion, fun, and philanthropy to raise funds for women in crisis. Through our conversation, three truths stood out: Purpose can be born from pain. Kelly’s story reminds us that even the hardest chapters can open the door to meaningful new beginnings. Community is medicine. The Little Black Dress Party is more than an evening out—it’s a gathering that creates joy, connection, and real support for women in need. Empowerment is contagious. As Kelly has lifted others, she’s been transformed herself—and her vision continues to inspire more women to reclaim their lives. The Benevolent Fund born from these events now provides legal aid for women who might otherwise have no access to justice or safety. What started as Kelly’s personal mission has become a movement, one that continues to grow and expand across communities. If today’s conversation touched you, I invite you to learn more and join us at the upcoming event on October 25th in Kirkland, WA. You can register or sponsor at thelittleblackdressparty.org .