Working Wardrobes Raises Over $430,000 for 2023 Annual Gala

On Saturday, September 9th, we celebrated the power of the ripple effect at our 2023 Annual Gala. Motivated by a desire to transform the lives of unemployed and underemployed Southern Californians, sponsors, guests, donors, and auction participants set off hundreds of life-changing ripple effects. The result was a tidal wave of positive impact! 

Whether you were with us in person or participating from afar, please click the button below to enjoy photos of the event. 

Thanks to our community of dedicated supporters, we raised over $430,000 to help people overcome barriers to gainful employment! Their combined generosity will sponsor at least 170 individuals’ journeys through our services from intake to placement—from that brave, first step of asking for help to the triumphant cry: “I got the job!” 

Former Working Wardrobes client Josie Benford, Combat Army Veteran OIF x2, shared her story, inspiring guests to contribute to the Working Wardrobes mission. We presented Josie with a Quilt of Valor® to say, “Thank you for your service and sacrifice in serving our nation.” 

This year, we honored Justin Frame (Managing Director – Market Executive | Pacific Desert at UBS) and Boeing for their years of generosity and partnership with our organization. 

Justin J. Frame CFP®, CEPA® joined the Working Wardrobes Board of Directors in 2015, serving as the Chairman of the Board from 2016 to 2020. Over the years, Mr. Frame’s infectious enthusiasm for the Working Wardrobes mission has motivated countless individuals and corporations he interacts with to get involved, including this year’s Presenting Sponsor, the H & H Lee Charitable Foundation.  

Over Working Wardrobes’ 16 years of partnership with The Boeing Company, seven passionate, dedicated employees have served on our Board of Directors. In 2021, Working Wardrobes launched the Rebuilding Careers Coalition, a community of monthly and annual donors dedicated to helping people overcome barriers to gainful employment. Our partners at The Boeing Company were among the first to answer the call, becoming influential, founding members of the Coalition. Today, Boeing helps Working Wardrobes forge connections with elected and government officials, shares employment opportunities for the clients we serve, engages in volunteerism, hosts clothing drives, and supports our organization financially. 

There is still much work to be done, and with your ongoing support, we will be able to reach new heights and impact even more lives. We invite you to participate in an additional silent auction, OPEN NOW through Sunday, October 8th at 12:00 PM! Click below to browse through incredible items and know that each bid helps us create a more vibrant community, one person at a time. 

As we reflect on the success of the 2023 Annual Gala, we are energized and motivated to help more people overcome barriers to gainful employment. With your ongoing support, we will be able to reach new heights and impact even more lives. 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each of you for being a part of this incredible evening and for your continued commitment to Working Wardrobes’ mission.