On May 29, Dress for Success Indianapolis (DFSI) proudly celebrates 27 years of empowering women across Central Indiana. Over the past nearly three decades, we have had the privilege of helping thousands of women build confidence, find community, and pursue economic mobility through career development and styling programs, professional support, and meaningful connections.
As we celebrate this milestone, Executive Director Julie Petr reflects on the impact of DFSI, how it’s evolved over the years, and what the future holds for the women we serve.
What has DFSI meant to women in Central Indiana over the past 27 years?
Dress for Success Indianapolis has served over 21,000 women with the tools needed to thrive in work and life, and to gain employment and economic mobility — a priceless gift to herself, her family, and our community.
How has DFSI evolved over the years to better serve women?
Dress for Success Indianapolis started in 1999 in the basement of Promise Church offering professional interview attire for women seeking employment. Over time, it became clear that women needed additional tools and a network of support to move from the “any job,” to the “better job,” to the “career job.” In 2006, the Professional Women’s Group (PWG) was created to help employed women develop skills and knowledge to propel them to a sustainable career. This year we are proud to celebrate PWG’s 20th Anniversary.
What does the future hold for DFSI and the women we serve?
The future is bright for the women we empower as we help them build confidence and provide the resources and support needed to achieve living-wage employment and greater economic mobility.
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Thank You! As we celebrate 27 years of impact, we remain grateful for the supporters, volunteers, partners, and community members who continue empowering women in Central Indiana — today and for generations to come.
