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,