Removing Barriers to Employment in Simcoe County
Across Simcoe County, many women and non-binary individuals face multiple barriers when trying to secure employment or re-enter the workforce. Dress for Success helps address these barriers by offering access to professional clothing, job-search support, and programs that help women enter the workforce with confidence and remain employed over the long term.
Dress for Success has returned to Orillia in a larger space inside the Orillia Square Mall, creating room for expanded programming and the launch of a new Social Boutique. The added space allows for more client appointments, group programs, and community engagement.
Our core program is the Professional Clothing Assistance Program and it’s typically the first step for many women. Individuals actively job searching can receive one or two free professional outfits for job interviews. Once they secure employment, they can return for an employment styling appointment and receive up to five additional outfits appropriate for their new workplace (Healthcare, Construction, Office, Casual Wear, etc.). This removes a significant barrier and ensures women can start a new job feeling prepared and confident.
Women who need more support while navigating their job search often join Breakfast Club, a nine-week workshop series that introduces essential employment preparation skills and builds confidence. Sessions cover topics such as job-search readiness, how to market themselves effectively, communication, and general well-being. The consistent weekly structure helps clients stay focused, build confidence, and develop tools that make the job search more manageable. At the end of the 9 weeks, women receive a make-over and professional headshot for their LinkedIn profile.
Once women become employed, many continue their journey through the Working Women’s Group, a six-week employment retention program that provides a network of support as they settle into their new roles. The program combines practical information with peer connection and focuses on five main pillars: workplace etiquette, work-life balance, financial literacy, health and wellness and leadership and civic responsibility.
A notable outcome of this continuum of support is that many clients eventually return as volunteers. After completing their own employment journeys, they often want to give back and support others who are starting out. This full-circle contribution strengthens both the organization and the wider community.
The Social Boutique also plays a significant role in supporting the organization. The boutique offers new and gently used clothing at accessible prices, with most items under $15. Revenue from the boutique directly funds programs, while giving the community a low-cost shopping option. The boutique is run with the help of volunteers who assist with sorting donations, customer service and day-to-day operations.
Dress for Success has two fundraising events coming up, including holiday gift-wrapping services at both Orillia Square Mall and Georgian Mall. On January 31, 2026 we will host our annual Power of the Purse event at the Barrie Country Club (Get your tickets here).
By offering clothing support, skill-building programs, and ongoing employment guidance, Dress for Success Orillia & Barrie continues to help job seekers across the region move toward economic mobility, independence, and meaningful employment.
We need volunteers to support our programs and fundraising activities, for more information contact: rosie@dfsorilliabarrie.org.