Dress for Success Toronto

What services does your organization provide?
Through the 5 Steps to Success our clients transition towards self-sufficiency by addressing their social and economic needs in relation to work, home and community. Each woman is a success story: She has gone from unemployment to economic independence.

Interview Suiting:Clients receive two formal outfits to prepare her for upcoming job interviews. Each woman is matched with a volunteer stylist that offers a unique one-on-one service in which they work with the clients to select clothing that suits the clients' individual needs and style and helps to build self confidence.

Dress Rehearsal:The Dress Rehearsal programming offers career guidance, mock interview and mentorship sessions. On the day of the interview clients will be expected to wear their Dress for Success Toronto suit and attend at the scheduled time. By doing so, the client will be exposed to planning for travel time, locating an office building and floor, conversing with a receptionist and sitting in a professional boardroom or office, in addition to the experience of the interview itself.

Career Centre:Services offered include job search assistance, r‚sum‚ and cover-letter-writing lessons, workshops and technology skills.

Employment Suiting:When the client successfully lands employment, she returns to Dress for Success Toronto for additional business-appropriate clothing that will help her build a professional wardrobe.

Professional Women's Group:The Professional Women's Group (PWG) is our employment retention program comprised solely of women that we have served who obtain employment. Membership is free and programming offers practical information, such as understanding corporate culture and handling personal finances, in addition to networking and growth opportunities and a peer-to-peer network of support.

Do you have any age requirements?
19+ for working with clients

Do you require language proficiency other than in English?
No.

What time commitment(s) are you expecting from a volunteer?
2-4 hours a week

Are there any specific skills and experience required?
Qualifications

• Willing to commit to a weekly or bi-weekly volunteer shift (minimum 2 hours) at Dress for Success Toronto for at least six months. Shifts are available on Tuesdays between the hours of 10:00am - 5:00pm
• Willing to participate in orientation and training
• Has a respectful, supportive and non-judgmental attitude towards the clients' needs and concerns
• Has good communication and listening skills
• Is a team player
• Retail/Tailor experience an asset

What type of volunteer positions are typically available?

• Merchandisers
• Boutique Coordinators
• Stylists

Is there any training provided for volunteers?
Yes - before volunteering there is a training and information session.

What are the typical volunteer activities occurring at your organization?
Please visit the volunteer section of our website for current opportunities: http://www.dressforsuccess.org/affiliate.aspx?sisid=70&pageid=2

Do you accept high school students?
Limited opportunities, please inquire: Volunteer@dressforsuccesstoronto.org