A partnership between Greater Charitable Foundation and Dress for Success NSW & ACT is ensuring that this National Volunteer Week (19-25 May) Illawarra resident Joan Lynch can do what she does best - boost local women’s confidence and independence.
The $450,000 partnership supports women throughout NSW, and has helped the local branch expand its services and reach by providing women with clothing, confidence, and career development support.
Since its establishment in 2009, Dress for Success NSW & ACT provides free clothing, styling and coaching services to women to help them overcome bias and discrimination.
A volunteer at Dress for Success Illawarra, Joan started giving her time to the organisation in 2023 shortly after retiring from full-time work.
“Retiring from a busy executive role left a big hole in my life - work had been a significant part of my identity,” Joan shared.
“Dress for Success became the perfect vehicle. It gave me a space where I could keep learning and growing while offering support to women who need a helping hand.”
Joan reflected on her time as a volunteer at Dress for Success and said that helping build confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of her role.
“Every interaction, every styling session, and every conversation has reinforced my belief that confidence is life-changing. Watching a woman stand taller, smile brighter, and leave with a renewed sense of possibility is profoundly rewarding,” she shared.
“It’s not really about the clothing, but it’s the clothing that helps each person see themselves differently, restoring dignity, hope, and belief that change is possible.”
Greater Charitable Foundation spokesperson Jackie Connors said the Foundation is proud to support Dress for Success and the critical role of volunteers.
“Joan just exudes her love and passion for supporting other women, and to have a volunteer like Joan in your corner must feel so heart-warming,” Jackie said.
“It is our privilege to support Dress for Success NSW & ACT to help them continue their services which give women the confidence and self-esteem they need to get the most out of work and life.”
Dress for Success NSW & ACT Chief Executive Officer, Sonia Casanova said the partnership helps strengthen the organisation’s impact throughout NSW.
“We are proud to continue and expand our partnership with the Greater Charitable Foundation. Their ongoing support allows us to strengthen our impact in regions across the Illawarra, Newcastle, and Western Sydney,” Sonia said.
“Through the dedication of our volunteers and the Foundation's generosity, we are empowering women to achieve economic independence and providing them with the resources and services to thrive in their careers and lives. Together, we are making a real difference, creating lasting change and stronger communities across these regions.”
National Volunteer Week (20–26 May) celebrates the 5 million Australians who selflessly donate their time and talent. At Dress for Success, volunteers like Joan are helping women take transformative steps toward employment, independence, and personal empowerment.
Joan expressed the need for services like Dress for Success, which rely on the support of the community and charitable organisations like Greater Charitable Foundation.
“For many women facing hardship the barriers to rebuilding confidence and securing stability can feel insurmountable,” she said.
“Dress for Success steps in to bridge that gap, offering practical support and programs that equip women to face challenges and step into new opportunities. When women are empowered, families and communities thrive.”
The partnership between GCF and Dress for Success helps ensure that programs such as styling sessions, career development workshops, and mentoring continue to be delivered with care and consistency, especially for women navigating complex personal or professional challenges.
To learn more about the partnership between Greater Charitable Foundation and Dress for Success, please visit: https://www.greater.com.au/greater-charitable-foundation/partners/dress-for-success/
To learn more about Dress for Success’ services, visit: https://www.dfsnswact.org.au/