Although I can’t remember how I first came across Dress for Success Vancouver, I’ll never forget the first time I walked into their boutique to volunteer as a Stylist. There was something special and emotional about being in a space created with the intention to empower women and help lead them to success. That day, I helped a few women outfit themselves for job interviews, but it wasn’t about clothes. It was about possibility and hope. That experience was the beginning of our continued relationship with Dress for Success.
Growing up, I remember my parents as people who simply went to work. My mom, in particular, worked a lot, had a never-ending list of things to do, and always seemed stressed. It wasn’t until I was older that I realized that, as immigrants, they had to be if they wanted a chance at creating a good life.
In Alignment With Dress For Success Vancouver’s Mission
It wasn’t until recently that I also realized just how independent my mom was, and how motivated she was about building financial security. My mom was showing me what it looks like for a woman to create security and independence for herself. Subconsciously, this taught me the importance of investing in myself: working jobs at a young age to gain skills rather than money, and saving half of my tiny paychecks.
My mom was driven by the opportunity to earn a good job, build financial independence, and find success in her career. Uncoincidentally, these are the pillars of Dress for Success Vancouver’s mission. I’ve seen from my mom, and from my own personal experience, what it feels like when you’re determined and deeply motivated to make something of yourself. There’s a spark that fires within you, and I’m passionate about helping other women find that spark too.
Olive & Piper Partner With Dress For Success To Create Lasting Impact
This is a huge reason why I’m drawn to the organization and why, as a company, we’ve committed to supporting their initiatives. Our motto at Olive & Piper is “You’re the Occasion,” which means that you are always worth investing in and worth celebrating. Over the last three years, we’ve been fortunate to be involved with Dress for Success Vancouver through in-kind jewelry donations of over $90,000 at the annual Success Luncheon, as well as donating pieces to support women through their boutique.
I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when women are given resources, support, opportunity, and community. Elevating women in their lives has a compounding impact, and hearing women who’ve been part of these programs share how their lives have changed makes that impact so real. Supporting Dress for Success Vancouver has reminded us that giving isn’t one-directional. We’ve gained meaningful relationships, a deeper connection to our community, and the knowledge that our business can play a role in helping women move forward. What keeps us involved is knowing that even small acts of support can help a woman step into her next chapter with confidence. We are just so incredibly grateful to be a small part of this.
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Read more about Olive & Piper’s partnership with Dress for Success Vancouver.