Dress for Success Des Moines

Dress for Success Des Moines helps Central Iowa women find work, keep it and grow in their careers, with services offered at no cost. At its boutique in Urbandale, The Styling Experience pairs each client with a volunteer Personal Stylist who puts together a complete interview outfit, from suit, blouse and shoes to purse, jewelry and portfolio, along with encouragement for the interview ahead. Once a woman lands the job, she returns for workwear to start strong. Scrubs are available in limited sizes for women who need them on the job, and the program also supports women heading into internships.

The Career Service Center offers résumé help, mock interviews and workshops, and volunteer Success Coaches lead one-on-one sessions that can include personality profiling, strengths assessments and job searching. For women who are already working, the Professional Women's Group meets the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. for support, practical information and inspiration, and its She Leads conference focuses on community and career growth.

Clients reach the boutique through a network of more than 50 referral partners, including shelters, workforce programs, colleges, schools and recovery services. Community members can donate gently used workwear by appointment, host a donation drive, shop pop-up sales at Valley West Mall, attend the Glow Gala or Success Luncheon, or volunteer as a stylist, coach, donation sorter or event helper after an orientation. Dress for Success Des Moines has served women in the community since 2011.