Ambassadors of Hope

I've seen firsthand that the right attire and make-up can give a woman in need the boost of confidence she needs to do well at a job interview and get back on her feet.

I volunteer at Charity's Closet (located outside of Baltimore, Maryland). It's a teen-run thrift shop, and its profits go directly to Success in Style (SIS). SIS is a nonprofit organization that provides work attire and fashion advice to disadvantaged women.

One of my fellow volunteers, Jeannette, a mother of nine who still finds time to spend her Sundays volunteering at Charity's Closet, recently offered me and my friend a very special opportunity. SIS had six clients coming in from a shelter in Baltimore, and there weren't enough adult volunteers available to help them pick out job interview clothes. So, we stepped in to lend a helping hand. I got to help the women as they tried on outfits, and I got to see them smile.

We gave each woman a new wardrobe, including pantyhose, a bra, make-up and hair products, a suit, a jacket, a pair of shoes, a purse, a watch, jewelry. We also gave them a coupon for a free haircut.

The women transformed before our eyes, and I could definitely see a boost in their confidence levels. That was a gift in its own special way.

I'm glad that I was able to help change the lives of these women, and I hope that they all go on and get jobs soon so that they can be successful.

Charity's Closet has taught me that making a difference in the world can teach you a little bit about yourself and a lot about life and the importance of being there for other people in their time of need.

— Molly Malarkey

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