Meet Tasha: Her Passion Will Inspire You

“Every woman’s success should be an inspiration to another. We’re strongest when we cheer each other on.” – Serena Williams

These are some powerful words spoken by a strong woman and we are here for it. It is so important to foster a community of women empowering other women and that is exactly what we do. Our community supports Dress for Success’ mission to empower women to achieve economic independence, and as we continue in our crusade, we always find ourselves in the presence of amazing women. Our duty is to make sure that you are introduced to these women, so that you can be inspired and we can continue to cheer one another on.

The woman we would like to recognize and introduce you to is Tasha Jones. She works a full-time job at Ohio Domestic Violence Network, while still supporting her community by volunteering at Dress for Success, where she was awarded the prestigious Woman of Power Award in 2018.  We know once you read her interview that you’ll be inspired by her as much as we are. Without further ado, continue reading to learn more about Tasha’s story and her impact on our community! 

Q: How did you first become involved in Dress for Success?

Tasha: I first became involved with Dress for Success during the first few weeks of it opening, by donating several business suits and outfits to the boutique. 10 years later, I became a client after graduating from college, getting a new job and needing a wardrobe enhancement.

 Q: Why do you think what Dress for Success does is so important for the community? 

Tasha: I think it is important for the community because everyone has a story, but not everyone can let their guard down when sharing their story. Dress for Success has made women in the community find confidence in themselves, or regain confidence that’s been lost due to life circumstances. The holistic approach to empowering women is like no other. Women can share their story, and know that they are joining a sisterhood that accepts them and wants to see them truly succeed. 

Q: As a lead volunteer for the Fill-A-Bag Sale, what does your commitment look like and what impact does this sale have on our community?

Tasha: As a Lead, I will begin by making sure all the shifts and duties are covered. I will monitor social distancing practices and safety, track the 30-minute shopping sessions, pop in and out on the crowd that’s lined up outside, keeping the boxes and floor stocked, just overall monitoring and ensuring operations are running smoothly. I am so looking forward to it! The importance to the community are levels. One, it’s a fundraiser to continue operations at Dress for Success for women, it’s a way for so many women to get incredible clothing and accessories that they normally may not be able to afford, at a great price. This helps to build and restore confidence, gets them more prepared for work and play. I bought my dress for 2019 D3 (Dine, Drink, Dress),  which is of course another amazing annual fundraising event for Dress for Success, at the bag sale the month prior to the event.  With this year’s D3 coming up virtually next month, this could be another opportunity to get something that would normally not be on the financial radar. 

Q: What steps did you take to become a lead volunteer?

Tasha: The step I took to become a Lead Volunteer was inadvertent. I enjoy giving back in as many ways as I can, and one is at each bag sale.  I have a great time doing multiple duties for Fill-A-Bag Sale, and have become a voice for marketing, crowd control, inventory, and other promotions. I have so much fun doing all that, I unknowingly became a crowd and staff favorite. 😊 When I was asked to be a Lead, I was honored and excited.

Q. After becoming involved in Dress for Success and continually empowering and inspiring women, you were recognized as Dress for Success’ 2018 Woman of Power, what did that mean to you?

Tasha: After being recognized as the 2018 Woman Of Power meant everything to me. It was very emotional, and I was so humbled to have received that honor for being exactly who I am. To be recognized in that way for doing the things that have always mattered and come natural to me, while being my authentic self, reminded me that I needed to continue staying true to myself and what I believe in. I believe the importance of empowering those around me. 

Q: Any parting words for our readers?

Tasha:  I am the self proclaimed Fill-A-Bag Sale Queen! I love telling people where I got items from, when getting complimented on my looks. If I can give back my time and help raise money for such a worthy cause, and look great doing it, I’m winning right? When promoting the event, I get to explain why we do it and it gives people even reason to want to participate. I hope all the readers come on out, shop and support Dress for Success and know that you will have a piece of empowering the women of Central Ohio. 

We hope that having the opportunity to hear from Tasha has inspired you, like she has inspired us. As you can see, Tasha embodies what it means to empower other women and we are so thankful for her. We cannot thank her enough for taking the time to chat with us and we are forever grateful for her. Our hope is that you are walking away being inspired and wondering how you can get involved to continue empowering other women. The Fill-A-Bag Sale that Tasha spoke about is coming up Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25 and we would love to see you there.

All details and registration can be found here to volunteer for the upcoming Fill-A-Bag Sale. 

YES is a community of women celebrating other women in moments of collaboration and success. We lift each other up by empowering others. We bring women together by championing the mission of Dress for Success Columbus.