It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story? How did you get to where you are today?
I’m honored to share my story. I’m the founder and CEO of Jackets for Jobs, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering job seekers with professional attire and career skills. My journey started with a deep belief that confidence is key to success.
I’m an image consultant, and I received my Professional Etiquette Certification from The Charleston School of Protocol and Etiquette, Inc. This training reinforced my passion for helping people present themselves with confidence and professionalism.
In 2000, I founded Jackets for Jobs with a simple yet powerful mission: to remove the barrier that professional attire can create for job seekers. If someone is unemployed, they often can’t afford career clothing—but without the right attire, securing a job becomes even more challenging. It’s a Catch-22. Jackets for Jobs opened its doors 25 years ago to bridge that gap, providing low-income individuals in Detroit with the clothing and confidence they need to succeed in the workforce.
Since then, we’ve helped nearly 40,000 job seekers transform their lives through professional attire, career coaching, and empowerment. We’ve partnered with the City of Detroit’s workforce development department, major retailers and banks and have been recognized by major organizations. My book, Ms. Goal Digger! Success is Sexy, shares my philosophy on perseverance and success. Looking back, I realize my path wasn’t just about business—it was about turning passion into purpose. My book is available on AMAZON. https://a.co/d/8DM2Mlx
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
Success never comes without challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been securing funding and corporate partnerships to sustain and expand our mission. Convincing companies to invest in a social cause takes persistence, but I’ve learned that relationships and impact speak louder than proposals.
Another challenge has been meeting the evolving needs of job seekers. I’ll never forget one client—a young woman who had escaped sex trafficking. When I asked if she wanted her new clothes folded in a bag or hung on a hanger, she said, “A bag, please. I don’t have a closet.” That moment hit me hard. It was a reminder that we’re not just providing clothes—we’re restoring dignity and hope. Seeing her thrive in her new job makes every challenge worth it.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
At Jackets for Jobs, we specialize in empowering job seekers by providing professional attire, career coaching, and the confidence they need to succeed in the workforce. But what truly sets us apart is our proven track record.
We’ve been in business for 25 years and have assisted nearly 40,000 job seekers—a testament to our impact and longevity. We have stood the test of time, adapting to workforce needs while remaining committed to our mission. Our partnerships with major organizations and fortune 500 companies further demonstrate our credibility and dedication.
Choosing us means choosing experience, reliability, and a deep commitment to helping individuals transform their lives through employment. We provide the LIFE JACKET for SUCCESS!
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
My best advice is to stay faithful, stay focused, and stay fearless. For me, God is my source, and I seek His guidance in everything I do. When making decisions, I listen to God, trust His direction, and move forward with confidence. Success isn’t just about hard work—it’s about having faith, perseverance, and a clear purpose. Stay committed to your goals, surround yourself with positive influences, and trust that God will open the right doors at the right time.
I often tell people, “Dream big, start small, and never stop.” I started Jackets for Jobs with a vision, determination, and a desire to serve—and now, 25 years later, I see the ripple effect of that decision. If you stay committed to your vision, success will follow.
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
To me, success isn’t just about personal achievements—it’s about impact.
True success is leaving a legacy of service and empowerment. It’s about using my skills, experiences, and resources to uplift others. If I can help someone gain confidence, land a job, or change their life’s trajectory, that’s success. It’s not about titles, awards, or money—it’s about how many lives you touch along the way.
Success isn’t just about personal achievements—it’s about making a lasting impact and helping others succeed. To me, success is measured by the lives I’ve touched, the opportunities I’ve helped create, and the confidence I’ve instilled in those striving for a better future.
For Women’s History Month, Ilitch Sports and Entertainment (Detroit Red Wings & Detroit Tigers) and Comerica Bank honored me as a Game Changer. When I received the award, I realized that this was true success—not just receiving recognition, but knowing that my work is making a real difference in people’s lives. Seeing job seekers walk away with confidence, ready to take on new opportunities, is the greatest reward and a true testament to success.
What’s next for you?
The journey doesn’t stop here! I’m excited to continue empowering job seekers, expanding Jackets for Jobs, and seeking new opportunities to make an impact. But ultimately, I trust God to guide my next steps. Wherever He leads me, I’m ready to follow with faith, purpose, and passion. The best is yet to come!
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
I’d love to connect! You can visit my websites: www.AlisonVaughn.com or www.JacketsforJobs.org to learn more about my work and mission.
I’m also on social media, though I’ll admit—I work so much that I’m not on as often as I’d like! I’m most active on Facebook (which, according to my teenage daughter, is “for older people” LOL) and LinkedIn. That said, I know the “young crowd” is on Instagram, so as time permits, I’ll try to be more active there! You can follow me on Instagram at @AlisonVaughnTV.
Also, check out my blogs on https://thesuccessnetwork.tv/channel/alison-vaughn/
