4EVR DEZ, Inc.: Empowering Northwest Florida Students through Compassionate Outreach
By Taxie Lambert, Executive Director
EVR DEZ, Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Escambia County, Florida, dedicated to enriching the lives of students across Northwest Florida. Founded in 2021 by Taxie & Katelyn Lambert, in honor of Taxie’s first born daughter, Desirea Sierra, who tragically lost her life to domestic violence at the age of 11, the organization aims to provide resources and opportunities that promote inclusion and equality for students facing hardships. The name “4EVR DEZ” serves as a tribute to Desirea’s memory and the organization’s commitment to empowering youth through free formal wear, feminine products and teen dating violence prevention.
Project Formal: Making Prom Dreams a Reality
The cornerstone of 4EVR DEZ’s initiatives is Project Formal, a program designed to ensure that every high school student has the opportunity to attend formal events, regardless of financial constraints. Through partnerships with local businesses, the organization provides free formal wear, including dresses, tuxedos (when funding allows), accessories, and basic alterations. Since its inception, Project Formal has served over 900 students from Escambia to Walton County, offering them the chance to participate in memorable school events without the burden of financial strain.
Project Period: Addressing Health and Hygiene Needs
In 2023, 4EVR DEZ introduced Project Period, an initiative aimed at providing free feminine hygiene products to middle and high school students in Northwest Florida. By distributing emergency period packs within schools, the program ensures girls have access to essential items, allowing them to focus on their education without the added concern of menstrual health. This initiative underscores the organization’s commitment to addressing the diverse needs of students and promoting their well-being to remain in school during menstrual cycles, period poverty exists in our schools and community. To date, 4EVR DEZ has provided 1100 emergency period packs inside school walls and 4000 emergency period packs at local festivals. If your school is in need of free feminine products, please email our nonprofit: [email protected] for more information
Community Engagement and Support through Education Awareness
4EVR DEZ’s impact extends beyond providing formal attire. The organization actively engages with the community through various programs and partnerships. For instance, the nonprofit hosts various events to educate students on teen dating violence prevention through its two movements, Project Formal and Project Period. The nonprofit also has a high school ambassador program where high schoolers learn about teen dating red flags, the community they live in, while supporting other organizations through volunteering with 4EVR DEZ, Fred Levin Way Festival, Night to Shine Boutique Days, WSRE, and area food drive giveaways. Additionally, 4EVR DEZ hosts trunk shows, which is the anchor and brand recognition for students to come and have the same experience as their peers, in a boutique vibe setting, fostering a sense of community and support. Students needing formal can register for free attire at www.projectformal.com.
How to Get Involved
Community involvement is at the heart of 4EVR DEZ’s mission. Individuals and organizations can support the nonprofit by donating new or gently used formal dresses, volunteering at events, becoming sponsors or becoming a drop off site. Donations can be dropped off at various locations throughout Northwest Florida, including salons, boutiques, and fitness centers. By contributing to 4EVR DEZ, supporters play a vital role in empowering students. Contact 4EVR DEZ, if you would like to join their mission through drop off locations, financial donations, or volunteer at www.projectformal.com.
4EVR DEZ, Inc. exemplifies the power of community-driven initiatives in making a tangible difference in the lives of students. Through programs like Project Formal and Project Period, the organization not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment among youth in Northwest Florida. By honoring Desirea Sierra’s legacy, 4EVR DEZ continues to inspire and uplift the next generation, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to shine and bloom into powering adults. A dress goes beyond thread and material, it’s a stepping stone towards a brighter future. Follow us on social media- 4EVR DEZ.
Contact the organization for speaking engagements in areas on teen dating, resilience, domestic violence, or mother support group.
Save the Date/Opportunities to Support:
May 18, 2025- 4th Annual Bread Pudding Bake Off- Pensacola, FL: Ticket Sales at Eventbrite
January 10, 2026 – High School Military Trunk Show- Pensacola, FL
February 7, 2026- Prom Expo, Pensacola, FL
March 14, 2026- Prom Trunk Show- Pensacola, FL
