Karen's Story

“I knew I could go into that interview and they would see me for who I really am, not my limitations.”

At the heart of our mission lies the belief that every woman deserves an opportunity to thrive, regardless of circumstances. Karen is one of our extraordinary clients who embodies that spirit of resilience and determination. 

After spending years with a difficult home life, Karen courageously decided to find a better life for herself and her four children, relocating from Texas to North Carolina with only their RV. At age 55, without a stable source of income, Karen had difficulty finding a house for her family. Without a job she was unable to apply for Section 8 housing and, without a residence, she faced challenges in finding a job. After several rejections for housing, losing the application fees each time, Karen knew she had to try something new. That’s when she found Dress for Success Triangle. 

FINDING HER CONFIDENCE

Karen’s first Image Coaching appointment changed everything. “I walked through the doors unsure what to expect, but mostly unsure of myself,” she said. Working with her image coach to find the perfect interview outfit she found her confidence. “It was hard to believe I was standing in the mirror wearing clothes like that, knowing they’re mine.” Her image coach even went the extra mile, sending her to her personal hair stylist so she could look her best. 

“I don’t recognize myself in the mirror anymore! I look at myself and say, ‘Wow! You’re beautiful!’”

READY FOR A FRESH START

With clothes she could feel confident in, Karen was ready to take back her power. In December of 2022 she secured employment at a pharmacy. “I knew I could go into that interview and they would see me for who I really am, not my limitations,” she said. With her new job, she was finally able to afford a car to help her get to and from work and apply for housing. She is also working towards a degree in behavior analysis with only a few credits to go before she graduates!

“Dress for Success Triangle helped me remember who I am and that’s what I hope for everyone: that they would know who they are.”