Women helping Women to be Successful

It all began when I came up with an idea for my 67th Birthday. I decided that I was going to collect "67 things" such as clothing, jewelry, shoes, purses and scarves and make outfits for other women. As you all know I am a purging maniac so I was limited with my own things, so I thought an email to some of my friends would work. I have always known I have the best of friends, and their response was proof of how generous and kind they are.   

I have never been known to do things in a small way, and this was going to be a project done in a big way. In a few short days, my dream of 67 things soared by and so did double the number. I stopped counting at around 150 items. I had:30 scarves, over 50 pieces of jewelry, 10 purses, 11 dresses, 20 tops, 7 pair of pants, 3 skirts, 2 sweaters, 4 pair of capris and 2 shawls.  

       

My plan was to make ensembles and donate them to organizations. They would then be available to women that can't afford clothes for a job interview, their daily job, or for a special event. The mountain of clothes and accessories allowed me to live out my dream of working in a retail clothing store. The bonus was I didn't have to deal with money. I have to say I was a bit overwhelmed initially, but once I put things in order the assembly began. I felt that each clothing item should have complimentary jewelry and one or two scarves. I played clerk for a very long time, and I was living the dream. 

I decided to get organized and make some deliveries. This was not going to wait for my birthday, this was happening. I had already decided to donate to the store at the Elspeth Reid Society. My second spot was the Samaritan House Resource Centre. They have a "Ready for Work" program.  

Drop off #1 was 14 ensembles to the Samaritan House Resource Centre. This Center helps women to get a job and provide appropriate clothing for them if they need it. The worker's eyes lit up when she saw the scarves and jewelry. She said that the women don't have any accessories. 

                         

I re-learned a lesson, "never assume". The worker and I spoke about the dressier outfits that I had collected but didn't bring. There is always an accompanist in everything and mine was the man I had spoken to in the morning. I had inquired about the dressier clothing, his response was work clothes, hence my delivery of practical things. The worker quickly said she would love to have any type of clothing I could offer. She said every woman deserved to feel pretty, and I couldn't agree more. Delivery #2 consisted of dresses, outfits and some classy shoes and more scarves and jewelry. I didn't post all the pictures, but my new friend at the Centre was excited to know there were dresses.

Drop-off #3 was to the Elspeth Reid Society. They have a store for their clients to shop in. The clothing is only a few cents, and the clients can buy what they want. Their store is also a place that provides clothing for the working woman.  I added 12 outfits to their store, just like the pictures below.  

I believe that if you feel and look successful, you will be successful. My dear friends have helped me to make that happen for so many women. I have always felt that something that can make a difference in a woman's life is if she takes an opportunity. When you look back at how your life unfolded or didn't, do you think, I took an opportunity, or I missed an opportunity. From this day forward, be that woman that helps others to be successful in any way you feel you can. Continue to grab onto any opportunity, it may be life changing for you.