Working wonders
Dress for Success empowers women in work and in life.
Since 2008, Dress for Success Regina has been helping women get on a path toward economic independence. The non-profit, co-founded by Barbara Hildebrandt and Jan Forrest, offers a suiting program that provides work apparel and accessories to help clients as they seek employment.
The process is simple. Local referral agencies—non-profit and government agencies, such as shelters, immigration services, job training programs and educational institutions—refer women to Dress for Success. To be considered, participants must have a job interview scheduled or have recently started a new job. Once accepted, Dress for Success works with the client at their Dress for Success Boutique to find appropriate work apparel and accessories. “All of the items we receive to give to our clients—whether it be accessories or clothes—are new, or nearly new professional wear for women that is donated by individuals or companies and sponsors,” says June Zimmer, chair of the board of directors, Dress for Success Regina.
Once the client has the workwear they need from the suiting program, they are invited to join Dress for Success’s Professional Women’s Group (PWG). “Once a month we bring together PWG members to network and reconnect. We offer skills-building seminars and bring in industry experts to speak on a range of topics related to improving their personal and professional development,” says June. “The PWG program offers a support system as clients transition into the workforce, to share, grow, and network with other like-minded women and continue to develop their skills for today's ever changing and challenging workforce environment.”
Getting involved with Dress for Success is easy. Volunteers are always eagerly accepted, and there is plenty to do. Volunteers can help sort donations, work with clients to find the right apparel, help with fundraising or assist with promotion and events. The community is also encouraged to get involved in many ways. Local companies and organizations can organize a clothing drive to donate items, get involved with fundraising, donate money, or become a corporate partner.
Clothing Donations are gratefully accepted at 3025 13th Avenue in Regina (Cameron Street entrance). “Drop off your gently used or new professional women's wear on Monday nights at our boutique,” says June. “You can also learn more on our website about how you can get involved, or how to refer someone to us.”
Learn more at regina.dressforsuccess.org or call 306.543.7377.
From Dress for Success Clients:
“At first, I was apprehensive because I did not think I would fit anything. The ladies let me feel welcome and were so helpful with styles and sizes. I am so grateful for all of the beautiful items and will feel comfortable attending my interview with awesome clothing!”
“It made me feel cared for. Really means a great deal to me. I would want to give back. Was just thinking how much I needed to make my hair and get my eyeglasses fixed. This has really been one of the best experiences of giving I have had. Lovely people. Really very pleasant and genuinely caring.”
“This experience gave me the boost of confidence I needed to get back out in the work field. I now feel prepared to go for interviews and work.”