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A Dress for Success Tulsa pilot program is helping women transition into the workforce

Posted at 5:25 AM, Jan 17, 2018
and last updated 2018-01-17 06:38:36-05

TULSA, Okla. - Dress for Success Tulsa launched a pilot program called "Beyond the Suit" to help women from challenging backgrounds transition into the workforce.

It started last week with workshops on how to write a resume, network for a job and what to wear to a job interview. Each woman received two business suits and personal image assessment.

This week the women are learning interviewing skills. This is free for the participants, many who have never worked before. 

"I came here without knowledge. I didn't know how to do it. I didn't even know where to go find a job," said 35-year-old Jessica Romero of Tulsa. 

She said she was afraid to get out of her comfort zone.

"I am legally blind, so I didn't have the skills, and I never had the chance to learn," added Romero, "And then I give those excuses, you know, I'm married. I have two kids."

Being part of the pilot program, she said has helped her open her eyes to new possibilities. 

The executive director of Dress for Success Tulsa, Jeanette North, said the main thing is that these women walk out with confidence after gaining new skills.

The organization partnered up with Community Care College, Clary Sage and Spherion Staffing.

It hopes to make the program a monthly event.

Dress for Success has 152 offices in more than 28 countries. To learn more, click here

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