Dress for Success- Central New Jersey is dedicated to empowering women and teen girls by providing them with clothing and essential workforce development tools. Their mission is to instill confidence through effective communication, personal branding, and image enhancement, guiding these individuals to the next level of their academic and professional journeys.
Dress for Success Mercer County began modestly in 2007 as a small affiliate, primarily focused on providing clothing to women through a single program. However, recognizing the community's increasing needs, they expanded their footprint in 2017. They became Dress for Success Central New Jersey, which includes seven counties- Burlington, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, and Somerset Counties. They incorporated a range of programs such as financial literacy, customer service excellence, and a specialized Latina program. They also extended their support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence, aiding them in returning to the workforce by providing guidance and the appropriate attire.
Dress for Success realized that young women could greatly benefit from their services. In collaboration with Trenton Central High School, a significant partner in their mission, they embarked on a new chapter. As an underserved community with a majority of marginalized students, Trenton became a focal point for their endeavors.
In 2022, with the help of the NJ Department of Children and Families’ Office of Resilience microgrant funding, they initiated a soft launch of Dress for Success in May, and by the Fall, the program had reached total momentum. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with girls finding immense success in learning and growing their skills. Their tailored approach includes 15 workshops, ensuring each session imparts new and valuable skills. There is no repetition; every workshop offers a fresh learning experience.
While the program’s impact has been significant, one of its challenges has been effectively reaching out to the students. They are committed to overcoming this hurdle and ensuring that every young woman in need is aware of the opportunities and support they offer. Together, they believe in creating a future where all individuals, regardless of their background, have the tools, confidence, and opportunities to succeed in higher education or a trade, secure meaningful employment, or pursue internships. Dress for Success is not just a program but a pathway to a brighter, more empowered future.
by:
Afra Salman
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