2 minute read
Operation Dress Code
Empowering Women Veterans in Their Transition to Civilian Workforce Operation Dress Code Returns to San Diego for the 7th year
Women are signing up to serve our country in more significant numbers than ever, representing the fastestgrowing population in both military service and the veteran community. But while they are consistently and impressively breaking down barriers, women warriors still experience unique challenges during military service and into their civilian lives. Specialists from WWP’s Warriors to Work® program will facilitate workshops about resume writing, career counseling, networking, and more. This support is critical because WWP’s Annual Warrior Survey concludes women warriors experience a higher unemployment rate and lower average salaries than their male counterparts.
In addition, the University of San Diego’s Veterans Legal Clinic will be onsite, providing women veterans with free legal advice and benefits support. Attendees can also learn about their earned federal and state veterans benefits through CalVet.
Female veterans or active-duty servicewomen who would like to attend Operation Dress Code can register at www.operationdresscode.org to reserve a time for their personalized shopping experience and learn more about the event.
To specifically help women warriors navigate the unique challenges of transitioning to the civilian workforce, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP), Turn Behavioral Health - Courage to Call, and the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) will hold an event at the University of San Diego on Nov. 5 called Operation Dress Code.
For the past six years, this grassroots, multipronged initiative has helped more than 2,000 women in San Diego with their transition from the military to civilian employment. The seventh annual event plans to serve over 400 women this year.
Attendees can look forward to multiple different experiences as part of the event.
Boutique Day
A room at the University of San Diego will transform into a pop-up clothing boutique treating women servicemembers and veterans to a day of personalized shopping and curated career building. This free, one-day event will provide event attendees with the necessary attire to start the next chapter of their professional lives. To complete the look, hair and makeup experts will be on hand to prepare the women for free, professional headshots.
Building Confidence and Careers
Operation Dress Code extends beyond professional attire. It’s a safe space where women warriors can connect with and help each other, while also learning about various career development topics.
Support Needed from the Community
The organizers of Operation Dress Code are asking the community to help stock the boutique by donating new or gently used professional clothing, shoes, jewelry, accessories, and handbags. Donations can be dropped off at any of the event’s pink Operation Dress Code bins stationed at businesses and offices throughout San Diego from Oct. 6 – Oct. 21.
For more information on donation locations, registration, volunteer opportunities, and event details, please visit
www.operationdresscode.org
About Wounded Warrior Project
Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more:
