Dress for Success

Dress for Success was founded in 1997 in New York City and is now an international 501(c)(3) or equivalent not-for-profit organization providing suits for underpriviliged women who have job interviews. Their mission, as listed on their Web site, is the following:

The mission of Dress for Success is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support, and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.

Women eligible for an interview suit have been referred and have a job interview scheduled. Dress for Success also provide employment retention programs, and they follow up with women once they get a job to provide further suits and separates. Though a wide and deep organization, the simple act of providing a woman with professional attire for her job interview is a simple act that can (and likely often is) the difference between being hired or not. A job is not only a means of income of which to live off, but it's key to feeling normal and secure.

Ways to Give
You can donate monetarily directly on their Web site. You can donate money and clothes to your local affiliate. If you're in a position to do so, you can gift stock, get your company involved, or become a sponsor. You can volunteer at a Dress for Success location or participate in SOS (Send one Suit) Weekend. You can also spread the word by becoming a fan on Facebook or following them on Twitter.

Though not in name, this organization feeds the hungry, clothes the poor, helps eliminate poverty, and makes women's lives better. Next time you're feeling charitable, remember Dress for Success. (And men, check out Career Gear.)