Prosperity Employment Outreach, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Midland that offers employment resources, has introduced a new program to support women with their professional attire needs. The program, Success Suits Her, addresses a challenge faced by job seekers by offering free professional clothing, shoes, and accessories to help women enter or reenter the workforce with confidence.
Kim delaPena, founder of Prosperity Employment Outreach and Midland Times’ Operations Manager, shared the inspiration behind the initiative.
“Access to professional attire can have a profound impact on a woman's confidence and job prospects in several ways, including first impressions, breaking down barriers, and even opening networking opportunities,” said delaPena. “However, professional women’s attire can be very costly–we help to overcome that barrier to employment!”
After more than a decade organizing recruiting events, managing specialized recruiting, and interacting with job seekers nationwide, delaPena witnessed the barriers many individuals face when searching for employment.
Success Suits Her operates through community donations. The program sources clothing, shoes, and accessories from contributions made by local companies, individuals, and other nonprofit organizations. This collaborative effort ensures that women in need have access to the professional attire required to enhance their job prospects.
When asked how volunteers and community partners play a role in Prosperity Employment Outreach, delaPena described volunteers as “the lifeblood of [the] organization.”
“They help change lives through employment mentoring, creating professional resumes, finding living wage jobs, and assisting women with the financial hurdle of professional attire,” said delaPena. “Our community partners not only fund our mission but also hire our candidates, creating a supportive cycle of giving.”
The process to receive support from Success Suits Her is straightforward. Individuals can reach out via phone or text their needs, including help with employment services or professional clothing. The organization then works to meet the needs.
To learn more about Prosperity Employment Outreach and Success Suits Her, visit ProsperityOutreach.org, or call or text 432-226-9987.