Local Merchant Hosts “Dress for Success” for Visually Impaired Students

By Britney Taylor, YES 2 Intern

Seattle, Wa -- The JCPenney located in Northgate Mall held more than just customers on Sunday, July 31st. The opening of the store at 11 a.m. began the start of an eventful “Dress for Success” day for the students of the YES 2 Program. Students were greeted by a JCPenney store manager. His friendliness and charm allowed the students to become comfortable and settled quickly.

The group of students was divided into three smaller groups so that each individual would be able to have a one-on-one consultation with a hair stylist. Students gave a brief description of their hair type and maintenance routine. The hair stylist then provided a personalized list of products, styles, and techniques for their unique hair. Students then had an opportunity to schedule an appointment to put the stylist’s advice into action. Goodie bags full of sample products, as well as coupons for the salon and apparel, were given to students as well.

The second part to the event was for the students to move over to Sephora to learn about proper skincare. There, students gathered around to ask questions about how to take care of their skin. Questions ranged from, “What are different skin types?” to, “What brands specialize in natural ingredients?” Students received multiple samples of different products to determine which worked best for their skin.

Lastly, students were ushered to the top floor of the store. It was there where the event would come to a close. One manager spoke to the YES students and staff. He gave a short lesson on the history of JCPenney and his personal experience there. He provided the perspective of an employer in what employers look for when hiring an employee.

First impressions and their lasting impact perfectly summarized the importance of the “Dress for Success” event. YES 2 Employment Coordinator, Amanda Sutherland, also spoke about first impressions. “As visually impaired young people, pushing past prejudice is already necessary. That’s why the skills you’ve learned today are so important.”

Second year YES 2 student Shirquita Craft said, “It was very encouraging to hear that I can break expectations. Sometimes you have to fake it ‘til you make it, but you’ll still make it.”

At the center of this event, that message was very clear. Impressions based on outward appearance are quickly made. Individuals with low vision must work harder than most to push past them. Once that is done it is easy to showcase the person who is successful inside and out.