BY ADELE CASANOVA
“Inspiring luncheon!” “Great Organization!” These are remarks from just two of the 90 guests attending the Dress for Success Winston-Salem annual luncheon held at the Barn at Wake Forest on July 31. Guests, sponsors, and board members gathered to be inspired by the stories of women Dress for Success has helped to gain financial independence. One guest said it best, stating, “Inspiring luncheon supporting Dress for Success. This nonprofit provides interview training, job support and professional dress to help women who are trying to pull themselves up to a better life for themselves and their family.” Dress for Success ‘dresses’ women from the inside out, offering clothing, training, inspiration, moral support and a sense of belonging within the community. One in five women in our community live at or below the poverty level, and Dress for Success currently serves up to 100 women a month in reentering the workforce.
Dress for Success Winston-Salem is headed by Executive Director Christine Odom Ringuette, who lends her extensive nonprofit experience and her inspirational outlook on life to the mission of raising women out of poverty. Dress for Success is located at 375 Buxton Street, Winston-Salem, and takes donations of clothing and toiletries Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. They hold several clothing sales a year to raise operating funds and also hold several fun, exciting fund-raising events throughout the year, which include great door prizes, designer clothes and accessories for sale, delicious food and great camaraderie. To be included on their mailing list to be notified about clothing sales and events, email Christine at director@dfsws.org or call 336-970-0374. Call and schedule a tour of Dress for Success to experience this wonderful local nonprofit for yourself. Consider donating, volunteering and participating in this inspirational organization that contributes to the overall health and strength of our community by lifting women out of poverty. A final quote from a luncheon attendee noted that, “Being able to see a face, a happy, grateful face full of hope and pride, really makes you appreciate the job that Dress for Success does on a daily basis.”
Dress for Success Winston-Salem wants to thank all the generous luncheon attendees who donated to their mission to guide women in the community to financial independence. And a special thank you to their presenting sponsors, Piedmont Federal and First National Bank, and their working sponsor, Keiger Graphic Communications, as well as table sponsors, Florence Corpening, Sharon Smith, Terri Foulks and Kristin Kelly Broyles.
