Program areas at Dress for Success Worldwide
Affiliate program: the organization provides an array of support and resources to global affiliates at all phases of their development, from start-up to mature affiliates. Initiatives under the affiliate program include the development and implementation of conferences, meetings, campaigns, and programs to build affiliate capacity, operational strength, and financial sustainability; facilitating communication and best practice sharing across the global affiliate network; and disbursement of designated donations of cash and in-kind product from contributors. Additionally, dsw centrally manages the global brand and digital presence, and tracking and measurement of impact across affiliates.
Global employment program: the organization supports affiliates in providing workforce development services to clients within the following areas of focus: career coaching and readiness, upskilling and reskilling, networks and community, and styling and professional attire. Activities under the global employment program include the centralized management of global, national, and multi-market engagement and program partnerships as well as development and management of the Dress for Success online community. The online community offers access to resources, workshops, and a network of support for client participants as well as a customizable forum for affiliates to engage digitally with the women they serve.
Local workforce development program: through its locations in new york city and chicago, the organization provides direct services and supports to unemployed and underemployed women in each identified market. Services and supports include job preparation, professional attire for interviews and employment, career development, employment retention, and financial literacy programs designed to equip women to secure and retain employment, progress in their careers, and achieve financial independence. Programs are delivered in-person and online via individual and cohort-based delivery models within dsw service locations and are customized to meet the needs of the local populations served. Both markets were active in 2023.