We plan to feature different local charities and nonprofits throughout the year. Do you have a group in mind we should feature? Let us know in the comments!
Common advice for job seekers is to put your best foot forward during the interview process — often literally. Outward appearance can certainly impact a person’s chances of landing a job. Professional attire can be hard to afford, particularly for those currently unemployed. This is where Dress for Success comes in.
Dress for Success Charlotte was incorporated in 2000 and in 2017 alone, 758 women took a step toward career preparedness through one of the organization’s programs. Dress for Success empowers women through a variety of services, starting with suiting and job preparedness, networking opportunities, computer skills training, and professional workshops.
There are several ways for you to get involved with their work:
Donate Clothes
Clothing donations are accepted by appointment for professional attire no more than 5 years old. All clothing should be laundered or dry cleaned and ironed. The organization accepts accessories, too. You can donate handbags, portfolios, briefcases, shoes, jewelry, and scarves.
Donate Money
Monetary donations go toward program funding for women striving for economic empowerment. Donations are an investment in the future of women who are helped by Dress for Success.
Volunteer
There are a variety of ways to volunteer your time and services for Dress for Success. Currently the organization has openings for boutique volunteers, clothes sorters, makeup artists, career center specialists, mentors, speakers, consultants, and administrative support. You can also plan to host an event with the nonprofit’s approval.
Events
There are events throughout the year hosted by Dress for Success. Your next chance to support the cause is the Shake, Swagger, and Stroll on May 11 at Freedom Park. Participate in (or watch) the Stiletto Swagger at 9 a.m., and then join the fun with the family-friendly 5K stroll around the lake at Freedom Park. Register or start a team to raise funds for Dress for Success.
Donation Drives
Hosting or participating in a donation drive is a great way to support Dress for Success. Donation drives can be held in conjunction with your company, school, or other community organization. Collect nearly-new suits and business appropriate attire and accessories, and you can even contact your local affiliate to see what the most urgent needs are in the Charlotte area. Most of the apparel Dress for Success uses to empower women comes from drives within the community.
Be a Corporate Partner
Dress for Success has partnered with a variety of different companies across industries, giving those partners curated sponsorship and branding opportunities. Corporate Partners for Dress for Success Charlotte have helped the organization support nearly 1,000 women each year.
Be a Referral Agency
In order to be a client of Dress for Success, women have to be referred by an agency partner. Agency partners include a variety of job training and preparedness programs throughout the community.
