PHILADELPHIA, PA — Two stalwarts of the Greater Philadelphia area, The Wardrobe and Wings for Success, have announced their merger. Both organizations, with a shared mission to combat clothing insecurity and foster financial independence, will consolidate their efforts to broaden their impact across Chester County and beyond.
The Wardrobe, formerly known as Career Wardrobe, has been a prominent figure in the fight against clothing insecurity for almost 30 years. With this merger, it welcomes Wings for Success, a like-minded organization that has served clients for 25 years.
This consolidation will allow public resale shopping, the proceeds from which will fund expanding services to provide outfits for anyone in need in the region. Additionally, the Wings for Success education and coaching services will extend throughout the Philadelphia region, aiding individuals in their journey towards financial independence.
Sheri Cole, The Wardrobe’s Executive Director, expressed her enthusiasm about the merger. “This merger is really 25 years in the making,” she said, noting that Wings for Success was founded by former Wardrobe volunteers. She highlighted the importance of clothing as a basic need and voiced her excitement about extending their successful model to Chester County.
To celebrate the merger, The Wardrobe has planned a series of events throughout Spring, including a grand re-opening on March 11th, an Open Wardrobe Day in honor of Women’s History Month on March 28th, and an Earth Day Community Clothing Drive in late April.
Guests are also invited to attend the reopening of The Wardrobe’s Chester County sites on Monday, March 11. The day’s activities will include a ribbon cutting ceremony featuring board members and elected officials, followed by special activities such as raffle prizes, shopping discounts, and refreshments.
- Exton Square Mall – 153 Exton Square Parkway (near Boscov’s on 2nd floor), Exton, PA 19341
- New Garden Shopping Center – 345 Scarlet Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348
The Wardrobe, founded in 1995, is one of the country’s largest agencies working to eliminate clothing insecurity and curb fashion waste. Last year, it saw a 30% increase in demand for its services, managing to outfit 6,000 individuals with clothing essential for their move towards independence.
The Wings for Success name will continue as The Wardrobe’s education and coaching program. Jill Laufenberg, former Wings for Success member who is now Development Director, expressed her excitement about the merger. “By combining our resources, we can do so much more together!” she said.
This merger signifies a milestone in the mission to empower and outfit individuals striving to make ends meet and provide for their families. By allowing people to donate, volunteer, and shop in Exton and Kennett Square, The Wardrobe will also be able to earn income vital to expanding its impact throughout the region.
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