Working Wardrobes’ recent Power Up for Success: Justice Reimagined event was more than a program — it was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when community comes together to support dignity, opportunity, and meaningful work.

The room was filled to the brim with energy, connection, and purpose as justice-impacted job seekers, volunteers, employers, and community partners gathered for a day focused on rebuilding careers and confidence. From the moment the program began, it was clear this was not just about employment skills — it was about being seen, supported, and encouraged to step into a new chapter.

Throughout the day, job seekers were guided step-by-step through how to build a strong elevator pitch and show up confidently in interviews. They were then paired with dedicated volunteers to practice those skills in real time through mock interviews and one-on-one coaching. The result was a room full of encouragement, brave conversations, and growing confidence — moments where uncertainty shifted into self-belief.

In the afternoon, the Justice Reimagined panel deepened the dialogue around second-chance employment and equitable hiring. Working Wardrobes was honored to be joined by an inspiring lineup of leaders who brought insight, experience, and practical guidance to the conversation:

Steve Kim, Executive Director of Project Kinship, shared deep expertise on community reintegration and support

 

 

Lindsay Oglesby, CEO of Tax Relief Advocates, offered valuable perspectives on the opportunities and strengths of justice-impacted talent

 

Caroline Scala, Partner at Fisher Phillips, provided practical insights on hiring practices and employment law

 

 

Together, their conversation shed light on reentry, opportunity, and what it truly takes to open the door to a second chance at work. Their voices equipped attendees with tools to navigate interviews, advocate for themselves, and move forward with confidence.

Working Wardrobes is deeply grateful to County of Orange Supervisor Sarmiento for sponsoring the space and making this meaningful gathering possible, and to the Irvine Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar for generously providing lunch for everyone who attended. Their support helped create an environment that felt welcoming, affirming, and rooted in dignity.

Most of all, this day was made powerful by the courage of the clients who showed up ready to grow, and by the volunteers, panelists, sponsors, and partners who stood beside them. They reminded us that justice isn’t abstract — it looks like people being seen for their potential, not their past, and being supported as they step into what’s next.

Events like Justice Reimagined are possible because of a community that believes in second chances and invests in people. As we close out the year, we invite you to help keep programs like this moving forward.

An end-of-year gift to Working Wardrobes helps provide career coaching, skills training, and professional wardrobes so more individuals can step into interviews — and new careers — with confidence.

You can support this work by making a year-end gift at:
https://www.workingwardrobes.org/end-of-year-2025/

Gifts can be made online, through a Donor-Advised Fund, or by contacting our development team to explore other giving options.

Together, we can continue opening doors — and creating moments where confidence, dignity, and opportunity take root.

Working Wardrobes extends sincere gratitude to the people and organizations whose generosity helped make Power Up for Success: Justice Reimagined possible:

  • Christopher Byrne
  • City of Irvine
  • City of Santa Ana
  • Doing HR Differently
  • Hensel Phelps
  • Poms & Associates
  • SoCalGas
  • The Northern Trust Company
  • UBS