The Uncommon
MISSION
W
hat does it mean to live your own mission? It may seem like a loaded question, but Susan Kanoff, Founder of Uncommon Threads, is a breath-taking example of what this means. Uncommon Threads originated as a closet in Kanoff’s social work office that was used to spark joy in her clients. Serving as a social worker and wardrobe stylist simultaneously, Kanoff combined her two passions to create her now booming organization. What was once just a complimentary service, is now a full-blown “innovative non-profit” in Lawrence, Massachusetts. In the Fall of 2016, the vision of Uncommon Threads became a reality. The mission of the organization was, and still is, to empower women in need. Using fashion as a tool, Kanoff is able to provide women with confidence and build community. She achieves this through her selfless acts of providing clothing, personal development coaching, workshops, and emergency services to women who are referred by social service programs. There are a variety of needs are served, including those of women who have suffered from domestic violence, those who are unemployed or underemployed, cancer patients, homeless women, the elderly, and women in recovery. These women are met with private styling sessions that fit their wishes, whether it be getting dressed for an interview or choosing everyday clothing to wear. The empowering quotes on the walls and private styling rooms immerse clients in a boutique atmosphere. This is an important touch in creating the comfortable environment of Uncommon Threads. Kanoff describes that she “didn’t want this to look like a social service program” as she recalls her time spent at similar programs. It was important to Kanoff that Uncommon Threads was different; these women needed a choice in what they wear, and a place where they would be treated with dignity and respect. Although starting out with only 400 square feet of space, Uncommon Threads managed to catch the attention of the media early on. Within the first year of operation, they were featured in Woman’s World Magazine, The Boston Globe, and other various Boston news outlets.
“It just catapulted. When you’re passionate and excited about something, and you’re excited about something, and you really feel like you’re living your own mission, good things happen,” said Kanoff. Quickly, Uncommon Threads built a robust clientele and was able to expand its business to make room for many more women in need. The new space, in which they still reside today, covers 4,000 square feet, which offers much more room for styling and comradery. Unlike the normal second-hand clothing businesses, Uncommon Threads styles clients free of charge, with the intention of empowering women for future success. Kanoff is what truly ties together the unique and inspiring qualities of the business. She feels strongly about the impact clothing can have on others. She detailed an experience she had with a client who went back to
