How Our Mobile Boutique Changed Lives in 2024

For years, Top Buttons has worked tirelessly to empower young women by providing them with professional clothing, resources, and the confidence they need to succeed. Yet, one recurring obstacle persisted: transportation. Many of our partners faced logistical challenges in bringing their participants to our boutique locations. With only four to six girls able to attend at a time, sessions were often stretched out over weeks or even months.

We knew we needed a solution. We began envisioning a way to eliminate these barriers and bring Top Buttons directly to the girls who needed us most. That dream became a reality in the spring of 2024, thanks to a generous grant from Publix Charities. With their support, we transformed a Dodge ProMaster van into a fully operational Mobile Boutique, ready to hit the road.

Stepping inside the Dodge ProMaster feels like entering one of our physical Top Buttons boutiques. Industrial pipe fixtures, sleek gray flooring, and crisp white walls create the familiar, polished atmosphere our participants love. Yet, it’s more than just an aesthetic experience—it’s a resource hub stocked with everything these young women need to dress confidently and professionally. Our Mobile Boutique mirrors the thoughtful curation of our physical locations. It features a capsule wardrobe of machine-washable, size-inclusive, brand-new professional clothing. High-quality thrifted blazers, cardigans, and layering pieces are donated with care. Essential closed-toe shoes and undergarments are available to complete the look. Whether they’re preparing for an interview, a new job, or a professional event, participants can select from a variety of styles that align with their personal preferences. From sleek suits to versatile separates, every piece is chosen with purpose.

In its first year of operation, the Mobile Boutique made a tangible difference in the lives of countless young women. At Academy Prep, we became an introduction to business casual attire and where it should be worn and provided 20 young women with elevated and proper fitting business casual attire. It won’t be long till these young women will be looking at potential job opportunities and Top Buttons is honored to have set the stage for them to confidently walk into the professional world. At Polk State College, the Mobile Boutique played a vital role in stocking professional and everyday clothing closets, ensuring students could access quality attire on campus. These moments represent just a fraction of the difference the Mobile Boutique made in its inaugural year.

While clothing is central to our mission, the Mobile Boutique is about more than just what’s on the outside. It serves as a practical extension of our Wearing Confidence Program, delivering more than just outfits—it delivers empowerment. Through our Job Readiness Delivery Project, we provide not only clothing but also educational sessions on topics like interview skills, workplace etiquette, and professional presentation. And the versatility doesn’t stop there. Whether it’s back-to-school events or specific clothing requests, the Mobile Boutique adapts to meet the diverse needs of our partners and their participants.

The Mobile Boutique is more than a van—it’s a vehicle of change. It’s a response to the challenges faced by our community and a testament to our commitment to serving young women. By eliminating transportation barriers, we’ve expanded our reach and brought critical resources directly to the girls who need them most. We’re excited to continue offering this service to our enrolled partners and to reach even more young women in the years to come. If you’d like to learn more or request a visit from the Mobile Boutique, please email us at info@topbuttons.org.

This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without Publix Charities who funded the Mobile Boutique Project and without the support of our community. Your donations enable us to provide not only gently used items but also brand-new, professional, and machine-washable attire that helps young women step into their future with confidence. Thank you for being part of our journey in empowering young women. Together, we’re creating brighter, more confident futures—one outfit at a time.

Providing Mentorship and Resources to Blossom

“Don’t go killing all my roses, ‘cause I’ve only started growing… ”

— Jenna Raine

Like the lyrics in Jenna Raine’s song, Roses, “She’s only just started growing.” This young woman is going to do great things—she’s funny, beautiful, smart, and has the whole world at her fingertips. Sometimes, all she needs is a reminder of her worth, someone to lift her up when she feels like she’s falling, and a community to nurture her spirit when life gets tough.

At Top Buttons, we’re here to walk alongside her and so many others like her. Through boutique sessions, mentorship and providing needed resources, we remind young women that they are capable, worthy, and full of potential. This young lady is from a local high school and participated in our Wearing Confidence Program session along with 3 other young women. Watching her come alive and experience a boost in self confidence during her time with us was very special. The feedback from the school administrator and the girls remind us just how essential the programs of Top Buttons really are.

By supporting our mission—whether through financial support, shopping, donating clothing, or simply sharing our message—you become part of the story that helps her grow into the incredible woman she’s destined to be. And as she blossoms, so does our community.

Let’s keep those roses blooming. 🌹

A Heartfelt Thank You and One More Ask to Shine Brighter in 2025!

This year, Top Buttons has experienced significant support through volunteerism and community engagement. With over 17,000 transactions through our thrift store operations in Polk County, we’ve seen firsthand the power of daily interactions and the generosity of individuals like you. These contributions are vital, helping us cover the majority of our operational costs and partially funding the programs that empower young women in our community. In 2024 alone, 1,729 volunteer hours were generously contributed by our community, helping us serve a total of 347 girls through our programs. These numbers represent the incredible collective effort to make a real difference in the lives of young women, providing mentorship, skills training, and essential resources to help them succeed.

We are also incredibly honored to be named your "Best Boutique" in this year’s Lakelander Choice Awards! To be recognized among so many amazing boutiques in our city reaffirms that you believe in our mission, see the need we address, and recognize the impact we’re making together. Simply put, we could not do this without you.

As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on a year full of challenges. From navigating difficult times with economic ups and downs to enduring the impact of two hurricanes, it has been a season of perseverance and resilience. Yet through it all, the support of our community has kept us going. Now, as we look ahead to 2025, we have one more ask to finish the year strong.

“My time here is helping me feel more confident and my program director pushes me to do things I normally wouldn’t do on my own. I feel more equipped and now excited about getting a job since I started working with Top Buttons.”

— Alexis (Shine Program Recipient)

Would you help us officially launch the Shine Mentorship Program? This vital program will provide life-changing opportunities for young women, offering mentorship, skills development, and resources to help them shine in their futures. To make this dream a reality, we need to raise $30,000 to close out 2024 on a strong note and ensure we hit the ground running in 2025.

Your support has already done so much. With your help, we can take this next bold step to empower even more lives. Every donation counts, and together, we can make an extraordinary difference.

 Thank you for being an integral part of our journey.

Top Buttons September Happenings

Wearing Confidence Program August Recap

Your clothing and financial donations make an impact! We had the pleasure of serving 47 girls in the month of August from these wonderful organizations: Family Worship Center (pictured below), Red Tent Initiative, Step Up Ministries, Options for Women, and One More Child. Thank you! Learn more about our Wearing Confidence Program here. 

Event Spotlight

We had the pleasure of partnering with Options for Women for their mother daughter brunch! This event hosted moms and their daughters for a wonderful morning of fashion and fellowship. We were proud to sponsor the fashion show, dressing six young ladies (pictured below) with clothes from our boutiques! Our Lakeland Wearing Confidence program director, Alisha Hinton, spoke to the crowd about body confidence. Thank you for having us, Options for Women! We loved it! 

The Top Buttons Closet Project

We recently announced on our social media that we're in Phase 1 of the Top Buttons Closet Project, located at the Polk State Winter Haven Campus as part of the Career Services Department!  It's an honor to be able to provide resources to young adults who are preparing to enter the workforce. Inside the Top Buttons Closet, students will have access to professional attire to help them dress for success and feel confident. We can't go without thanking Publix Charities, who sponsored our amazing mobile boutique (pictured below). With our mobile boutique, we are able to provide onsite education and resources to groups that aren't able to come to our stores.

Top Buttons on the News!

Top Buttons CEO Sarah Powers recently had the opportunity to appear on the #PolkPlace show with the Polk County Government! She talked about the mission of Top Buttons, Race Across America, the Mobile Boutique…and more. Check out the video below.

Building a Community of Support for Young Women in Need

When it comes to making a difference in the lives of young women in our community, understanding their unique needs is our first step. Every day, we observe and interact with young women who are seeking comfort, support, and opportunities to grow. We strongly believe that by addressing these needs, we can pave the way for their success and well-being. Our commitment goes beyond just offering programs; it's about creating a nurturing environment that feels like a second home.

As part of our mission, we have developed various programs aimed specifically at young women in need. These initiatives are designed not just to provide immediate assistance but to empower them with the tools they need to thrive in their personal and professional lives. Our approach is holistic—we consider every aspect of well-being, from educational support to emotional health. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive community where every young woman feels welcomed, valued, and understood. From our Wearing Confidence Program sessions to our online platforms, every effort is directed towards building a network that uplifts and inspires. Join us as we dive into the impacts of these initiatives and explore how you can be a part of this fulfilling journey.

Understanding the Needs of Young Women in Our Community

In our efforts to support young women, the first action we undertake is to understand their specific needs within the community. Many young women face challenges ranging from educational barriers to personal struggles that may impede their confidence and development. To identify these needs effectively, we engage in open dialogues through our workshops and feedback sessions, allowing us to hear directly from the young women we aim to help.

These interactions provide insightful data that help shape our initiatives. For instance, if a significant number of responses point towards anxiety over academic performance, we tailor our educational programs to include stress management and study skills seminars. By aligning our services with their expressed needs, we ensure that our assistance is relevant, practical, and embraced by the community. Each program or event we develop is a direct response to what we learn from these conversations, creating a truly supportive environment geared towards fostering growth and resilience.

The Impact of Our Programs for Teens in Need

Our programs are crafted with the intent to make a tangible difference in the lives of the young women we serve. The impact of our efforts can often be seen both in the short and long term. Here are some enhancements our participants have experienced:

1. Enhanced Self-Esteem: Through workshops focused on self-care, body positivity, and empowerment, participants report feeling more confident and valued.

2. Community Connection: Our programs often encourage collaboration and friendships, which helps build a supportive network among participants.

3. Future Opportunities: We work to connect teens with internships and job opportunities, helping them to apply their skills in real-world settings and plan for a successful future.

Through these focused efforts, we not only aid in their current needs but also set the foundation for their future success. By investing in their growth, we contribute to cultivating empowered individuals who can face life’s challenges with confidence and grace.

Steps We Take to Foster an Inclusive Community

We believe that every young woman, regardless of her background or circumstances, deserves the opportunity to feel valued and supported. To make this belief a reality, we have taken dedicated steps to ensure our community is as inclusive and welcoming as possible. One of the primary ways we do this is by creating programs and spaces that are accessible to all young women. This means considering physical accessibility in our boutiques and ensuring our online platforms are user-friendly for everyone, including those with disabilities.

Additionally, we organize workshops and events that address a wide range of interests and needs, from career guidance to mental health awareness. These events are designed to not only educate but also to foster a sense of belonging and community among participants. By bringing young women from diverse backgrounds together, we help build bridges of understanding and support, which are crucial for promoting inclusivity.

How You Can Help Support Young Women in Need

Support from our community is vital for the success of our mission. There are several ways you can help us continue our work with young women who need it most. Volunteering is one of the most impactful ways to get involved. Whether it’s helping out at an event, offering mentorship, or assisting in our boutiques, your time and expertise can make a significant difference.

Donations, whether monetary or in the form of clothing and accessories, also contribute immensely to our programs. These contributions help us provide resources and services to young women who may not otherwise have access to them. Additionally, simply spreading the word about our work and the impact it has can attract more support and resources, helping us to expand and enhance our programs.

Our commitment to empowering young women through fashion, community support, and educational programs is at the heart of everything we do. By understanding their needs, impacting their lives positively, fostering an inclusive environment, and encouraging community involvement, we help young women build confidence and self-worth. This holistic approach ensures that every young woman we work with can face the future with optimism and strength.

We invite you to join us in this fulfilling journey. Whether you choose to volunteer, donate, or simply share our story, your support makes a profound difference. Together, we can continue to mentor young women and build a supportive community that elevates and empowers those in need. Join Top Buttons in making a lasting impact on lives and transforming communities, one young woman at a time.

How Our Events Create Future Leaders

Leadership skills are crucial for young women navigating their formative years and preparing for the future. Our events are designed to cultivate these essential qualities by providing a supportive environment where girls can learn, grow, and practice leadership. We aim to inspire confidence and foster the next generation of leaders through carefully curated activities, workshops, and mentorship opportunities.

Participating in our events exposes young women to various challenges and scenarios that encourage them to step outside their comfort zones. This experiential learning approach helps them develop problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication. Moreover, they learn to take initiative and lead with empathy, which are essential traits for any future leader.

The Importance of Leadership Skills for Young Women

Leadership skills are essential for young women in preparing them for various aspects of life. These skills help build self-confidence, enabling them to take on challenges with a positive mindset. Understanding how to lead paves the way for personal growth, encouraging young women to set goals and work diligently towards achieving them.

Moreover, leadership skills foster teamwork and cooperation. When young women learn to lead, they also learn the value of working collaboratively with others. This includes effective communication, active listening, and problem-solving. These abilities are vital for success in both personal and professional settings, allowing them to navigate diverse environments and situations gracefully.

Key Elements of Our Leadership Events

1. Workshops: We provide interactive workshops where girls can practice leadership skills through group activities and role-play scenarios. This hands-on approach ensures they can apply what they learn in real-life situations.

2. Guest Speakers: We invite inspiring women leaders from various fields to share their experiences and insights. Listening to these guest speakers helps young women understand the different paths to leadership and the qualities needed to succeed.

3. Mentorship Programs: Our events include mentoring sessions where participants can receive guidance from experienced leaders. These mentors offer personalized advice and support, helping girls build a network of supportive relationships.

4. Team-Building Activities: Activities designed to promote teamwork and collaboration are a crucial part of our events. Through these exercises, participants learn the importance of cooperation and mutual support in achieving common goals.

5. Feedback Sessions: We provide opportunities for participants to reflect on their experiences and receive constructive feedback from peers and mentors. This reflection is essential for personal growth and improvement, allowing them to understand their strengths and areas for development.

These elements combined create a comprehensive and enriching experience that equips young women with the skills and confidence needed to become effective leaders.

Benefits of Participating in Leadership Activities

Participating in leadership activities offers numerous benefits for young women, helping them personally and academically grow. One significant advantage is the development of critical thinking skills. Through various challenges and decision-making scenarios, girls learn to analyze situations, consider multiple perspectives, and make informed choices. This kind of thinking is invaluable, as it equips them to handle complex problems in school, work, and life.

Additionally, leadership activities foster a sense of responsibility and accountability. When young women take on leadership roles, they learn to be responsible for their actions and decisions. This sense of accountability contributes to their maturity and ability to manage responsibilities efficiently. It also builds resilience, teaching them to bounce back from setbacks and continue striving toward their goals.

Future Goals: Enhancing Our Leadership Program

Looking ahead, we aim to enhance our leadership programs to ensure they remain impactful and relevant. One of our key goals is to integrate more digital learning tools into our events. By utilizing online platforms, we can provide additional resources and interactive content that complements the in-person experience. This approach will make our programs more accessible and flexible, catering to a broader audience.

Another goal is to increase community collaboration. We plan to partner with local organizations, schools, and businesses to create a more extensive support network for our participants. These collaborations will provide more diverse opportunities for young women to engage in leadership activities and gain real-world experience. By working together, we can amplify our impact and help shape tomorrow's leaders.

Conclusion

Our commitment to developing leadership skills in young women is unwavering. Through thoughtfully designed events, we provide young women with the tools and experiences necessary to become confident, capable leaders. By participating in these activities, they learn essential skills such as critical thinking, responsibility, and resilience, equipping them to face life's challenges head-on.

As we look to the future, we are excited to enhance our event programs with digital tools and community partnerships, ensuring our initiatives remain effective and far-reaching. Join us at Top Buttons in our mission to build self-worth and empower the next generation of female leaders. Together, we can create a brighter future where every young woman has the opportunity to lead and make a positive impact.