At Dress for Success, volunteers help women reach financial freedom one outfit at a time

When Jan Strom retired as public information officer for Granville County Public Schools, she was looking for a volunteer opportunity that was a perfect fit for her schedule and interests. The former elementary and middle school teacher eventually found it — supporting the work of Dress for Success Triangle NC, part of an international program aimed at empowering women to gain financial independence.

Strom, who has lived in Raleigh for 18 years, has four adult children and nine grandchildren, ages 8 months to 17 years, with her husband Gerry.

"Volunteering at Dress for Success as a Donation Center Volunteer, Boutique Sales worker, and as a member of the Retail Sales Task Force has been a passion of mine for the past five years," she tells me.

I checked in with Strom to learn more about her work and why she's passionate about it. Here's a Q&A.

Go Ask Mom: Why did you get involved in Dress for Success, and why have you continued? What is it about its mission that you're passionate about? 

Jan Strom: After retirement, I had trouble finding a volunteer opportunity that did not require a regular weekly commitment that I could feel passionate about the mission of the organization. So I began my volunteer role by seasonally volunteering at the Dress for Success Boutique Sales. These public sales help fund the programming of Dress as well as purchasing client clothing in sizes that we do not have in our inventory.  I really enjoy being a private shopper as I help customers pull together the perfect outfit.

Working in the Donation Center is also a fun job that has both weekday and Saturday shifts. I can sign up for the shifts that fit in my schedule. The Donation Center volunteers process the clothing are gifted to Dress.  We are looking for garments that are in excellent condition to add to our client clothing.  Any items that are not client appropriate or exceed client clothing inventory needs are directed towards our Boutique Sales.

I know that my work helps to fund the programming of Dress for Success.  I love to hear when another client gets a job that will help her move forward towards her goal of financial freedom.

GAM: Women can get an interview outfit from Dress for Success, but the program offers so much more. What all does it do? 

JS: Empowering women to achieve economic success is a mission statement that is easy to rally around. But Dress for Success is so much more than the gift of an outfit for job interviews. If a woman lands that prized job, she can return to our offices in Raleigh or Durham to get five workday outfits.

Clothes that make you feel professional and confident are important, but even more important is the programming that the fabulous Dress staff and enthusiastic volunteers provide. Clients have access to both career and image coaches and a networking class that aims to build professional skills and develop the confidence to go for that job of their dreams. Other services, which are offered virtually during these pandemic times, include mock interviews, lessons in financial literacy, establishing a work/life balance and other employment and leadership skills at the heart of the Dress for Success mission.

While I am not a part of the most important programming role of our organization, I am proud to be a part of the volunteer cadre that helps to support those programs.

GAM: Tell us about a favorite moment helping somebody prep for that new job or new path in life? 

JS: As we were prepping for our Boutique Sale in Chapel Hill last month, a client arrived needing clothes for a televised interview regarding her experience at Dress for Success.  Helping her select an outfit was a joy! She was so excited to tell about Dress’s impact on her life.  I was also able to share with her some ideas on how to frame her story for the interview based upon my experiences as the spokesperson for my school district.  I felt just like a proud mother as I watched her nail that interview!

GAM: How did COVID shift how you were able to help women?

JS: It did not take our professional Dress for Success staff long to figure out how to shift to virtual coaching and training. We have learned so much during this time and while we are looking forward to the return to in-person coaching and networking, some services will be continues to be offered online.  Webinars and virtual mock interviews have grown significantly.

As we were able to return to receiving clothing donations, we learned that we did not have to do that every week. Our generous donors are now bringing their donations at our newly established monthly donations using COVID safe procedures.

We have even been able to restart our Boutique Sales using COVID safety practices. Earlier this month and in June, we are holding weekend sales each month at a storefront at University Place in Chapel Hill.  In September, we will return to Boutique Sales in our Raleigh location at Tillery Place, just off Capital Boulevard.

GAM: What does Dress for Success need most right now, and how can people help?

JS: First of all, come and shop our Boutique Sales in Chapel Hill. Our Summer Sale is Friday, June 11 and Saturday, June 12. Not only can you build a new wardrobe of new and gently used clothing at great low prices of 80 percent to 90 percent off retail, but you will also be helping women build a brighter financial future through employment.

Secondly, consider making either a financial donation or donation of clothing that you no longer wear but is still in great condition.

And finally, consider volunteering with us! You’ll make some great new friends and at the same time support a mission that builds employment and leadership skills for our clients as they seek employment that will lead to financial success.

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