I began volunteering with Dress for Success Vancouver in 2013. I got involved through my mum who was volunteering and brought me along with her. Since I started dressing clients in the boutique over 10 years ago I’ve had the honour and privilege to support Dress for Success Vancouver, in several roles on event committees, PR campaigns and general communications support. Each project had the goal of supporting women on their journeys to career success and personal empowerment.
With each office visit, event committee or volunteer shift at Dress for Success, I’ve met incredible people and had many valuable experiences, made professional connections, laughed, cried (on occasion) and felt personal growth. As we approach the 25th anniversary of Dress for Success Vancouver, I’m thrilled to be part of the Success Luncheon committee again this year and celebrate the organisation and its people at the Luncheon later this month.
Over the past decade, I’ve learned so much from the volunteers I’ve worked with as well as the Dress for Success Vancouver staff and the clients I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know and working alongside. Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from my time with Dress for Success Vancouver include:
- The Power of Community
I’ve learned that when women come together to support one another, incredible things happen. Every volunteer, donor, and staff member at Dress for Success Vancouver contributes to a network of support that lifts women up. Each person brings a different set of skills and style that supports the mission to empower. This sense of community is powerful and infectious, and it extends beyond the organisation, impacting women, brands and communities in ways that are truly inspiring. - Resilience and Adaptability
Many women who come through the doors of Dress for Success have overcome tremendous obstacles. The resilience in their stories has inspired me to look at my own challenges differently. Whether it’s feeling overwhelmed or defeated or finding creative solutions to help clients, they’ve shown me that adaptability, gratitude and perseverance are key to growth—both professionally and personally. - The Importance of Showing Up
There’s something deeply meaningful in showing up. Through the years, I’ve seen how much of a difference it makes when we’re present, ready to get our hands dirty, listen, or offer guidance. Sometimes, all someone needs is a friendly face or a bit of encouragement to feel like there’s hope and options. Volunteering with Dress for Success has shown me how much power there is in offering a community of support. - The Challenges of Not For Profits
Every time I’m with the Dress for Success staff I see how hard they work and how much of themselves they give to keep the organisation not only running but thriving and growing. Relying on donations to keep the organisation running is a never-ending job and one they do through relationships and demonstrating the value of their programs and services. I’ve learned how far donations go for an organisation like Dress for Success and how they stretch every dollar to offer their clients as much support as possible.
This year, as Dress for Success Vancouver celebrates 25 years of empowering women, I’m super excited for the upcoming Success Luncheon. Earleir this year, I got to chat with Astrid Levelt, founder of Dress for Success Vancouver. I heard her story and the humble yet enthusiastic beginnings of the organisation in the former nun’s residence at St. Patrick’s Parish on Main Street in East Vancouver.
This 25th anniversary Success Luncheon will be a celebration of achievement, dedication, community and growth. The luncheon brings together supporters, staff, volunteers, clients and friends whose lives have been transformed by Astrid’s idea to start the first international affiliate for Dress for Success.
Reflecting on my decade of volunteering with Dress for Success Vancouver, I feel both pride and gratitude. This organisation has given me community, lifelong friendships, professional support and a chance to make a meaningful impact.
The Success Luncheon is now sold out but there are so many ways to support Dress for Success. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, donate clothes, or cheer us on, your support makes all the difference. Learn more here: https://dfsvancouver.ca/ways-to-give/
