In a small boutique in Kingston, women step out of the fitting room smiling. Moments earlier, some may have felt unsure about their futures, as entering the professional world can feel uncertain. Organizations like Dress for Success Kingston aim to help change that.
Dress For Success Kingston is a local affiliate of the global Dress for Success movement, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women achieve economic independence.
The organization works to empower women and students in the community by providing professional clothing, career development programs, and mentorship opportunities. The organization supports women at different stages, from preparing for their first interview to advancing in their careers.
Inside the Dress for Success Kingston boutique at 700 Dalton Ave., volunteers work one-on-one with clients to select professional outfits tailored to the opportunity they are preparing for. During each appointment, clients are presented with options for professional clothing from racks of blazers, full suits, and dresses, alongside shoes and accessories. In addition to professional clothing, clients can access other essentials such as winter coats, bras, underwear, socks, makeup and feminine hygiene products.
The organization’s mission extends beyond clothing. “Confidence isn’t just about appearance, it’s about feeling capable and supported,” said Manager of Programs Hanna Kitchingman in an interview with The Journal.
Kitchingham expanded by saying much of that support comes from volunteers who help guide clients through the suiting experience. “Volunteers are truly the heart of our organization,” Kitchingham said. “Their compassion, professionalism, and encouragement set the tone.”
For volunteers working inside the boutique, one of the most meaningful parts of the experience is witnessing the change in clients’ confidence during an appointment. Some volunteers were drawn to Dress for Success Kingston because of the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community.
“I was initially drawn to the opportunity to immediately have a positive impact on women in our community,” volunteer Katie Phillips said in an interview with The Journal.
Dress for Success welcomes involvement from the Queen’s community, offering opportunities for students to volunteer and support its initiatives, while also reminding students that they are welcome to access the organization’s services when preparing for interviews, presentations, internships or entering the workforce.
Since opening its doors in 2013, Dress for Success Kingston has supported more than 3,000 women in Kingston and the surrounding region through its programs and services. Helping individuals secure employment, pursue further education and advance in their careers.
Beyond the boutique experience, Dress for Success Kingston also offers programs designed to support women throughout their professional journeys.
One of these initiatives is the Professional Women’s Group (PWG), which provides workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking events for individuals who’re employed and building their careers. Through conversation workshops on leadership, financial literacy, goal setting, and workplace communication, the program helps participants build skills that support long-term professional growth.
Through its programs, volunteer support and community partnerships, Dress for Success Kingston continues to help individuals across the region build confidence and access new professional opportunities.
The organization continues to play an important role in supporting individuals across the Kingston community.
“Many people see us as the place that gives away suits,” Kitchingman said. “But clothing is only the entry point; confidence, community, and career development are the lasting outcomes.”
Tags
Clothing, Dress for Success, nonprofit, Volunteer
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