This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Ashley Sunseri about the upcoming Dress for Success Going Places Network, which helps women navigate the job search process.
Residence: Dunmore
Educational background: Graduate of Marywood University
Title: Program coordinator of the Going Places Network and Path to Success for Dress for Success Lackawanna
Q: What was the inspiration for this event?
A:The Going Places Network is one of the signature programs of Dress for Success Worldwide. In 2011, Dress for Success Lackawanna was one of 60 affiliates chosen to pilot this program, and we continue to run it for the worldwide organization.
Q: Explain how the Going Places Network works.
A: Funded by the Coca-Cola Foundation, the goal of the Going Places Network is to help unemployed or under-employed women navigate the job search process, ultimately leading to gainful employment. It is a job readiness program for women looking to enter or transition in the workforce; it is free. Meetings are held once a week for six weeks, with each session focusing on a different topic. Also, we have a tremendous amount of support from the business community.
Q: What is Dress for Success Lackawanna’s mission?
A: The mission of Dress for Success Lackawanna is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the developmental tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
Q: What is unique about this program?
A: The Going Places Network is unique because of the design of the program. In addition to the curriculum and ongoing support that Dress for Success Lackawanna provides, local professionals participate in every session by sharing their expertise and insights, allowing participants to gain first-hand knowledge of what employers look for in new employees. Plus, we never know what doors can be opened, so the opportunity to network with local professionals is an added benefit to those participating in the program.
If you go
What: Dress for Success Lackawanna Going Places Network
When: Thursdays, Sept. 12 though Oct. 17, 9 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: The Cooperage Project, 1030 Main St., Honesdale
Details: Contact Ashley Sunseri at 570-941-0339 or lackawannacountygpn@dressforsuccess.org to enroll in the program.
Laura Rysz is the features copy editor and calendar editor at The Times-Tribune and runs the Talk of the Times column, which focuses on local fundraisers and other events. She also writes Chef’s Table that profiles restaurants around the region. Additionally, Laura curates events online on AccessNEPA.com. Laura is involved in the special Mother’s Day edition and curates occasional features Marry Memories and Times Travelers. She is a graduate of Haddonfield Memorial High School, New Jersey, and earned an English professional writing degree with a minor in mass communications from King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. She also earned a certificate in Social Media Marketing from Rutgers Business School. Contact: lrysz@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9100 x5228.
