A Dress For Success Austin client

After September 11, 2001, I re-evaluated my career in film and decided to change paths towards a career that dealt with the community and issues that concerned the here and now. I saw an ad for Dress for Success in a glamour magazine and it said to "visit the website if you would like to start one in your city."

I was surprised that there wasn't one in Austin and inquired on how to start an affiliate. Because I work in wardrobe and costume in film, it seemed a perfect match for my talents. I supplemented with courses from the Austin Community College (ACC) Nonprofit Center and from UCLA with fundraising courses. I had to submit an extensive business plan for approval from the Worldwide Dress for Success to start one in Austin, which we did in 2003.

Here's a few facts about DFS Austin:

• About 30% of our clients are plus-sized


• 70% of women dressed in interview suits have landed jobs.


• We had over 500 volunteers in our first year.


• We have joined with 20 Membership Agencies that refer clients to DFS Austin


• DFS Austin has dressed over 1200 women since 2003


• dress barn recently donated over $40,000 worth of women's suits


• DFS Austin dressed 400 young girls from Gary Jobs Corp who were shipped in on buses


• DFS Austin now has a Corporate Guild with corporate sponsors

People may send in donations to 701 Tillery #11, Austin, TX 78702. Or they may donate online at http://www.networkforgood.org. Visit our website at http://www.dressforsuccess.org to view our wish list, clothing drop off hours and volunteer days. $55 buys a complete plus size suit for a woman!

Plus-size supermodel Emme is on the advisory board for the national Dress For Success. Emme spoke with ISAA's Allen Steadham and Gia Melissa Marciano on the ISAA Rapport and described why she supports Dress For Success. You can listen to the broadcast in Windows Media or MP3 formats.