As the year 2024 draws to a close and we reflect on all we have accomplished, we do so with gratitude. We are thrilled to share that we have exceeded our numerical goals for the number of clients served, classes provided, and coaching sessions offered to individuals in career transition. Our clients have made outstanding progress despite facing significant challenges.
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Last night, our 2024/25 ULead team was the featured guest speaker group for our monthly EmPower Hour class. The Dress for Success Twin Cities ULead program allows clients to apply, interview, and be selected to work closely with DFSTC team members and confidence coaches. This program helps participants develop their leadership skills while serving as client leaders. Clients who join the ULead team use this opportunity to work on their professional career goals and personal development.

These clients meet regularly with their assigned DFSTC coaches to discuss their progress and to work through a leadership curriculum provided by DFSTC. ULead team members collaborate with the Volunteer Coordinator in the Wearhouse™, volunteer for Success Express events, and speak on behalf of DFSTC as brand ambassadors. They also work with the Director of Programs, hosting and leading DFSTC classes, as well as serving as guest speakers.
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The 2024 ULead team members had the chance to introduce themselves to our client community, sharing who they are, what brought them to DFSTC, and how their ULead experiences have impacted them. One client leader, Jennifer, shared her inspiring journey. She fled her country after an abusive ex-husband attempted to gain custody of her child. Without a network or support system and receiving little assistance from the courts, Jennifer and her child left in secret, taking only what would fit in a few small suitcases.

Jennifer arrived in Minnesota with the goal of starting over but had no idea where to begin. She learned about DFSTC from another domestic abuse survivor and decided to sign up. At the time, she was in job search mode and knew she needed support.

Jennifer described how nervous and uncertain she felt when she first came to DFSTC. Initially, she sat in classes without commenting or sharing her screen. Over time, she grew more comfortable and confident. She began working with a DFSTC coach and eventually secured a great job as a teacher. She also expanded her network and found a stronger circle of support. Jennifer shared that she no longer feels alone. She is more confident as a person and as a mother and is no longer afraid to use her voice or share her story.
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Jennifer expressed that being a positive role model for her daughter is her greatest joy—a joy we share with her.
We are incredibly proud of Jennifer and all our clients for the progress they have made. It is stories like hers that remind us why we do the work we do and highlight the impact it can have. We are grateful for your support in empowering individuals to achieve their goals and become the best version of themselves. Thank you for being part of this journey!

We are excited to continue working with this amazing group of clients and look forward to all the great things to come!

Support Our Mission
As we celebrate Jennifer’s story and the progress of so many others, you can help us continue empowering individuals through employment. Consider making a year-end gift to DFSTC or purchasing tickets to our 2025 Power of You fundraiser as a meaningful holiday gift. Your support creates opportunities for clients like Jennifer to thrive and build brighter futures.
🔗 Donate Now
🔗 Buy 2025 Power of You Tickets

Every dollar supports our mission to uplift women and community through economic empowerment!

Dear DFSTC Community,

As I reflect on this year, I’m deeply grateful for your support and the incredible milestones we’ve achieved together. Despite tight funding, our small but dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure every client has the resources they deserve to succeed on their employment journey.

This year, we completed a two-year automation project, streamlining operations to focus more time and resources on our clients. This project will save us 30 hours of staff time each week and allow us to invest in a full-time program staff member in 2025! 

Your support made it possible to deliver 1,296 hours of career coaching, distribute 81,336 pounds of professional attire, host weekly workshops to build critical skills, and contribute an additional $32,484,520 in economic spending. Because of you, women are securing jobs, growing in their careers, building confidence, and creating brighter futures.

In 2025, we remain committed to empowering women through a holistic approach that addresses their unique needs. From emotional intelligence training and stress management workshops to home buying and budget classes, we design programs based on what clients tell us will help them most. Your generosity will also allow us to:

• Expand our Success Express mobile unit to serve rural communities in the Grand Rapids area.
• Increase staff capacity to provide more personalized support.
  
  

Together, we can continue breaking down barriers to financial independence and creating opportunities for success. Thank you for being an essential part of our mission. Your year-end gift will help make 2025 our most impactful year yet.

With heartfelt gratitude,

October is a profound month that brings awareness to two significant issues impacting countless individuals and families: Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month. At Dress for Success Twin Cities (DFSTC), we understand that the path to empowerment and well-being is holistic, addressing the complex and varied needs of every person. Our commitment to supporting clients extends far beyond the job search; we provide wrap-around resources and guidance to help clients thrive in all aspects of life.

This month, we proudly stand beside our community partners, Cornerstone and Women’s Advocates, as we work together to offer compassionate, essential services for those who have experienced domestic violence or are dealing with health challenges like breast cancer. These partnerships allow us to support clients not only in finding employment but in building resilience, accessing resources, and finding safe, supportive environments for healing and growth.

Ways to Observe Breast Cancer Awareness MonthBreast cancer touches lives far and wide, and awareness is the first step in fighting it. Here are ways to show your support:

1. Schedule a Mammogram
   Early detection saves lives! If you or someone you know is due for a screening, encourage them to schedule a mammogram. Many healthcare providers offer special promotions during October, making it a great time to take action.
2. Wear Pink
   Wearing pink is a simple, visible way to show support and start conversations about breast cancer. Whether it's a pink ribbon or an entire outfit, every bit helps raise awareness.
3. Donate to Breast Cancer Research or Support Organizations
   Numerous organizations fund research for a cure and provide support to those affected by breast cancer. Consider donating or volunteering for a local or national breast cancer organization, or fundraise within your own community.
4. Share Stories and Resources
   Sometimes, sharing stories of those who have fought and are fighting breast cancer can be a powerful way to inspire hope and action. Use social media or community groups to share educational resources and personal stories to raise awareness.

Ways to Observe Domestic Violence Awareness MonthDomestic violence is often hidden but pervasive, impacting individuals and families in profound ways. Here are meaningful ways to raise awareness and support those affected:

1. Wear Purple on #PurpleThursday
   Join the national movement to wear purple on the third Thursday of October to show solidarity with domestic violence survivors. Wearing purple sends a powerful message that survivors are not alone.
2. Support Local Shelters and Organizations
   Organizations like Women’s Advocates and Cornerstone provide shelter, counseling, and legal support to those affected by domestic violence. Consider donating money, goods, or time to these or other local shelters that support survivors.
3. Educate Yourself and Others
   Domestic violence isn’t always physical; it can include emotional, financial, and psychological abuse. Learning to recognize signs of abuse and knowing how to help can make a world of difference. Share educational resources with friends, family, and colleagues.
4. Listen and Support
   Survivors need safe spaces and compassionate listeners. Whether it’s through professional support or friendship, creating a non-judgmental environment can provide a crucial lifeline for someone affected by domestic violence.

DFSTC’s Holistic Approach: Supporting Clients Every Step of the WayAt DFSTC, we are dedicated to providing a supportive environment that extends beyond professional development. Thanks to our community partners like Cornerstone and Women’s Advocates, we’re able to offer wrap-around services to meet each client’s unique needs. From health and safety resources to job readiness programs, our approach empowers clients not only to succeed professionally but to build a strong foundation in all areas of life.
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This October, join us in raising awareness for these critical causes. Together, we can make a difference by spreading knowledge, supporting survivors, and building a community where everyone has the resources they need to thrive.

As we continue our Heart Health for Women classes, we are reminded of the incredible impact that our partnership with Hennepin County and WomenHeart has had on our community. This initiative has provided essential cardiovascular and diabetes health education to Black and Indigenous women in Hennepin County, directly contributing to their overall well-being and economic independence.

At Dress for Success Twin Cities (DFSTC), we know that a woman’s health is deeply connected to her ability to achieve and maintain employment. By integrating wellness programming into our holistic workforce development model, we are addressing the intersections between employment, health, childcare, transportation, and education.

Thank you, Hennepin County and WomenHeart, for your continued support and partnership. Your contributions are making a real difference in the lives of women in our community, and together, we are creating a brighter, healthier future.

At the end of last month, Dress for Success Twin Cities took an exciting trip up north to the Ball Club Community Center within the Leech Lake community. DFSTC hosted a Success Express event, where women and gender-expansive individuals gathered for a day of empowerment, connection, and growth. It was inspiring to meet with participants who shared their personal visions of success and took steps toward achieving their goals with the support of our services.

Empowering Women and Building Confidence
​The event allowed participants to meet with our dedicated volunteers, try on accessories, and order a FREE Confidence Kit, a professional clothing package delivered right to their homes. This kit is designed to help each individual feel more confident and prepared for their career journeys, and it was a joy to see everyone leave with renewed optimism and a clear sense of purpose.
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We are so grateful to the Leech Lake community for their warm welcome and to everyone who participated in making this event special.

Celebrating Our Community Partners
This event wouldn’t have been possible without the tremendous support of our community partners. Smart North was instrumental in making the day a success, introducing attendees to their upcoming Future is Feminine: Tech Career Pathways Program, launching in October 2024. This innovative program will provide mentorship, tech skills training, and career development support, empowering women, youth, and small businesses to thrive in the tech industry.

We’d also like to extend our gratitude to PCs for People for their generous donation of refurbished laptops to the first 15 individuals who registered and attended the event. These laptops will help bridge the digital divide and ensure that participants have the tools they need to succeed in today’s tech-driven world.

Looking Forward
Our collaboration with Smart North and the Leech Lake community has set the foundation for ongoing impact and growth. We’re excited to continue working with these incredible partners to empower more women and gender-expansive individuals, providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
As we move forward, we’re committed to building on the momentum from this event and expanding our efforts to support even more communities across Minnesota.

Thank you to everyone who made our Success Express event such a memorable experience! Be sure to stay connected with us for future updates, events, and opportunities to get involved. Together, we can continue empowering women to define and achieve success on their own terms.

Check out the photos from the event below!

At Dress for Success Twin Cities, partnerships fuel the heart of our mission, and today, we want to shine a spotlight on one of our incredible corporate partners: MedSource Labs!
Their continued generosity helps us provide Confidence Kits to our clients—packages filled with professional clothing, accessories, and support to empower women and gender-expansive individuals as they work toward their career goals. 📦👗
With MedSource Labs supplying the essential boxes we use to assemble these kits, we’re able to deliver not just clothing but also a boost of confidence. These kits help our clients feel prepared and empowered to take on new opportunities, interviews, and milestones.
This partnership means more than just logistics—it represents shared values. MedSource Labs' dedication to uplifting communities makes a tangible difference in the lives of the individuals we serve. Together, we are helping clients move toward success—one Confidence Kit at a time! 🌟
We are grateful to MedSource Labs for their commitment to our mission. Partnerships like these enable us to keep empowering women and gender-expansive individuals to build brighter futures and stronger communities.

​We at Dress for Success Twin Cities (DFSTC) want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Hennepin County and WomenHeart for their incredible partnership and support. Thanks to this collaboration, we are able to continue our Heart Health for Women classes, providing essential cardiovascular and diabetes health education to Black and Indigenous women in Hennepin County.

This initiative is perfectly aligned with our mission to empower women to achieve economic independence. By prioritizing health and wellness, we ensure that the women in our community receive the holistic support they need to thrive. Wellness programming is a crucial part of our workforce development model because women’s employment is closely tied to other aspects of their lives, including health, childcare, transportation, and education.

Thank you, Hennepin County and WomenHeart, for helping us make a tangible difference. Together, we are paving the way for a healthier, happier future!

We are thrilled to announce the incredible success of our recent emPower Her 5K event! With the unwavering support of our community, sponsors, participants, and volunteers, we raised an astounding $25,273.60. This accomplishment is a testament to the collective effort and generosity of everyone involved, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

Our Heartfelt Thanks:

• Sponsors: Your financial support and partnership were crucial in making the 5K a reality. Your commitment to empowering women through employment opportunities and career development is invaluable.
• Participants: Your energy, enthusiasm, and dedication on the day of the event were truly inspiring. Thank you for running, walking, and showing up with such passion and spirit.
• Volunteers: Your hard work and dedication behind the scenes ensured that everything ran smoothly. From setup to cleanup, your efforts were instrumental in the success of the event.
• Clients: Your stories and successes are the heart of our mission. We are honored to support you in your journey towards empowerment and success, and we are inspired by your resilience and determination.
  
  

Fundraising Impact:
The funds raised will go directly towards our programs that provide employment opportunities, career development, and essential resources for women in our community. With your support, we are creating pathways to brighter futures and stronger communities, ensuring that every woman has the tools and opportunities to succeed.

Photo Slideshow:
To capture the spirit and joy of the day, we are delighted to share a slideshow of photos from our talented volunteer photographer, Andy King. His dedication and eye for detail have beautifully documented the energy and enthusiasm of the event. Thank you, Andy, for your incredible work!

We are thrilled to welcome Sue Perala as the newest member of our Development Committee. Sue brings a wealth of experience and a passion for excellence from her role as Manager of Adjusting Services at American Family Insurance (AmFam).
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Sue Perala serves as a Manager of Adjusting Services at American Family Insurance (AmFam). In her role, Sue leads with a passion for excellence and a commitment to service that echoes the AmFam culture of empowerment, curiosity, and integrity. Her dedication to innovation and customer-first thinking supports AmFam's strategic goal of accelerating through digital innovation and fostering inclusive communities that provide opportunities for all. Her contributions are a testament to AmFam's belief in the power of community and the importance of corporate social responsibility as a key differentiator in the industry.

As Memorial Day draws near, Dress for Success Twin Cities joins the nation in honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. This day holds profound significance for our organization, as we reflect on the values of courage, sacrifice, and resilience that define both our military heroes and the women we serve.
Memorial Day is a time for remembrance and reflection, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the freedoms we enjoy thanks to the sacrifices of our armed forces. At Dress for Success Twin Cities, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to support and empower women who have served in the military, as well as military spouses and family members.
This Memorial Day, we encourage our community to join us in honoring the memory of our fallen heroes. Whether through attending local memorial ceremonies, participating in moments of silence, or reflecting on the meaning of service, let us come together to pay tribute to those who have given their lives for our country.
As we commemorate Memorial Day, let us also reaffirm our commitment to supporting the women veterans and military families in our community. Through our programs and services, Dress for Success Twin Cities remains dedicated to empowering these remarkable individuals as they transition to civilian life and pursue their goals with courage and resilience.
Together, let us honor the legacy of our fallen heroes and uphold the values they fought to defend. This Memorial Day, we stand united in gratitude, remembrance, and respect.