Mission: |
DFSB provides low-income women with interview-appropriate
clothing as they try to enter or re-enter
the workforce. The organization dresses, coaches
and mentors women trying to regain control
of their lives and those of their children
through economic independence. DFBS runs an
educational support group for the newly employed
woman with monthly seminars on topics relevant
to achieving success in the working environment. |
History,
Goals, & Achievements: |
Founded
in 2001, DFSB is one of 78 affiliates of Dress
For Success Worldwide. An independent organization,
DFSB works to serve economically deprived women
in greater Boston transitioning into employment.
600+ women have been dressed by DFSB to date;
45% of these women are employed. |
| Programs
& Services: |
DFSB partners with
relevant social service agencies in Boston,
welfare to work programs, drug rehabilitation
programs, battered women's shelters, GED and
literacy programs, homeless shelters, immigrant
assistance programs, etc. Referred women either
have a job interview scheduled, are going to
a job fair, or are beginning internships. Women
are dressed and coached and, once employed,
are offered another outfit for the workforce.
DFSB's Professional Women's Group conducts the
organization's monthly seminars. |
| Annual
Budget: |
$40,000 |
| Staff: |
All volunteer;
Co-Founders serve as Co-Executive Directors |
| Board: |
9; meets
twice a year; no committees |
| Fundraising: |
Special
events; one direct mail solicitation (planning
to implement an annual appeal); would like to
involve Board more directly in fundraising;
contributions from apparel retailers like Talbots;
corporate sponsors; pro bono legal and tax services |
| Donor
Base: |
Single
women and mothers, professional women, corporate
sponsors sympathetic to women's issues |
| Fundraising
Challenges: |
Board
Development; Board lacks diversity in skills
and talents; development of a major gifts strategy |
| Consultant
Needs: |
Because
the Board of Directors is not currently involved
in asking for money, a consultant with experience
in training Board members to solicit contributions
would be beneficial. The organization hopes
to implement an annual appeal to raise $100,000,
so annual giving experience is key. Additionally,
DFSB would welcome assistance in the development
of a major gifts program. |
