By: Cal Parish
This March, Detroit’s nonprofit, Jackets for Jobs, Inc. (JFJ), founded by Alison Vaughn Smith, marks a significant milestone—25 years of transformative impact on the community with its anniversary event, “Clothed in Confidence: 25 Years Strong.”
Set against the backdrop of Motor City Casino on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 10:00 AM, the celebration will highlight JFJ’s commitment to supporting job seekers through professional attire and career development resources.
Celebrity Spotlight: Cynthia Bailey Takes the Stage
Photo Courtesy: Cynthia Bailey / BRAVO TV
The event will be headlined by none other than Cynthia Bailey, an acclaimed model, successful entrepreneur, and beloved cast member of the Real Housewives of Atlanta. After over a decade on the hit BRAVO TV franchise, Bailey has not only entertained but has built a robust brand, spanning successful ventures and a partnership with Weight Watchers. At the event, she will delve into her career journey, entrepreneurial ventures, and her commitment to health and wellness.
“It is an absolute honor to stand alongside Jackets for Jobs as they celebrate 25 years of empowering individuals with confidence, dignity, and opportunity,” Bailey expressed. “Clothing is more than just fabric—it symbolizes our identity and aspirations. Looking good boosts our confidence, opening doors to new possibilities. I’m thrilled to support an organization that has uplifted over 40,000 job seekers, proving that collective support can elevate us all.”
Honoring Detroit’s Changemakers
The celebration will also honor community leaders who have significantly contributed to JFJ’s mission and the broader Detroit area. This year’s honorees include Dennis Archer Jr., Esq., a prominent businessman and civic leader recognized for his economic development efforts, and Karen Hume, a retired District Manager of TJ Maxx, celebrated for her enduring commitment to JFJ’s goals.
A special acknowledgment will be made to DTE Energy for hosting JFJ’s inaugural clothing drive 22 years ago, which set the foundation for the nonprofit’s widespread community impact.
A Fashionable Legacy
Embracing the theme “Clothed in Confidence,” the event will feature a fashion show orchestrated by Michigan Fashion Week, showcasing the transformative power of professional attire. Since its inception in March 2000, Jackets for Jobs has equipped nearly 40,000 individuals with not only the clothing but the confidence to navigate the job market successfully.
Empowering Through Comprehensive Career Support
Jackets for Jobs offers a robust array of no-cost services, including career skills training, employment etiquette education, and interview-appropriate attire. By addressing both the professional and personal needs of job seekers, JFJ helps individuals prepare for success in the workforce.
A Legacy Recognized Across the Country
Jackets for Jobs has garnered national attention, featuring on platforms such as NBC’s Today Show, ABC’s The View, and NASDAQ. The organization has been acknowledged for its impact and is featured in the Detroit Historical Museum, highlighting its ongoing contributions to the city.
As Jackets for Jobs continues to empower Detroit’s workforce, the support from sponsors such as DTE Foundation, First Nation Group, and the NBA Pistons, among others, underscores the community’s commitment to fostering economic independence and career success across the city.
About Jackets for Jobs, Inc.
Since its foundation in 2000, Jackets for Jobs, Inc. has stood as a beacon of hope and empowerment, providing essential career attire and employment training to thousands in Detroit. Through its unwavering mission, JFJ champions economic independence and career achievement, dressing individuals not just for the job they want, but for the success they deserve.
Photo Courtesy: Jackets For Jobs, Inc. / Pam Perry PR
Published by Drake M.
