Sometimes all it takes is one moment to turn a corner towards a brighter future. This is especially true for women stuck in a situation with no support and without the tools to take that first step. That’s where organizations like Dress for Success Tampa Bay make a difference.
Lisette Parsons, Executive Director of Dress for Success Tampa Bay, knows what standing at that precipice can feel like. “I was a domestic violence survivor 30 years ago. I raised my three sons as a single mom, and I wish I had a Dress for Success helping me along the way,” shared Parsons.
Lisette found her own path, excelling in her industry. She volunteered at Dress for Success Tampa Bay for three years before stepping into the role of Executive Director. “I just fell in love with the nonprofit and the mission. I fell in love with what we stand for and what we do,” said Parsons.
Lisette is quick to share that the true scope of what they offer women in need is far more than just providing clothes for an interview. “The clothes are great for women that don’t have anything, but it’s heartbreaking when women don’t have computer skills. That makes it hard for them to go online and fill out an application or take a self-evaluation test, or even putting together how to sell themselves with a resume and a cover letter,” Parsons added.
Many of the women seeking help are leaving abusive relationships or reentering society after incarceration, seeking a fresh start and a brighter future. These women start in the Moving Forward program. It starts with a styling appointment – each woman receiving one outfit including shoes, accessories, undergarments and toiletries to prepare for their job search. The program also offers job readiness skills, AI lunch & learns, financial literacy and mental health awareness. Once these women establish themselves in a position, they receive a week’s worth of clothing and move on to the professional women’s group that meets once a month to offer continued support. “It’s iron sharpening iron. We want to make sure they stay relevant, that they are empowered, that they feel they can take necessary steps to either get promotions or change industries,” explained Parsons.
The job readiness skills are the most popular and powerful tools currently offered. “Recruiters are using AI, so if you don’t know how to turn that job description into a resume, you probably will never be looked at,” explained Parsons.
Those skills are paying off for the women in the program. In 2025, Dress for Success Tampa Bay served 1,270 women. They expect to double that this year. But it’s their success stories where the true strength lies. “One domestic violence survivor went through our programs, and now works for the City of Tampa. She gives classes to the professional women’s group and does guest speaking for us as well,” shared Parsons. There are so many stories just like that one. Another woman who went through the program now serves on the Dress for Success board.
“We would not be able to make it without the community’s input, generosity and support. Hands down, we would never make it,” explained Parsons. That support comes in many forms, from the clothes their stylists use to provide women a fresh look to funds to cover costs like gas cards, bus passes and rideshare programs. Those interested in helping can find a wish list on the organization’s website (www.dfstampabay.org) that highlights their top needs, as well as information on how to donate to support their work.
In the end, Dress for Success Tampa Bay is less a closet and more a catalyst. It’s never been just about a blazer or a pair of heels. It’s about the woman who walks through the door unsure of her worth and walks out believing she can write a new chapter. Securing not just a job, but returning as leaders, mentors, and partners, lifting the next woman in line.