Disney VoluntEARS Make a Difference for Women and Warriors through Working Wardrobes
Originally published at Disney Parks News
- Disney VoluntEARS and Working Wardrobes teamed up as part of the community workforce development initiative
- The event prepared female Marines and sailors for the transition into the workforce after the military
- Service Members worked with cast member VoluntEARS who acted as “personal shoppers” to create a new business look from start to finish
Disneyland Resort cast member VoluntEARS recently traveled 56 miles to Camp Pendleton. To support female military personnel who are transitioning to civilian life as part of the resort’s community workforce development initiative.
In partnership with the nonprofit Working Wardrobes cast members from the SALUTE and Women’s Inclusion Network Business Employee Resource Groups (BERGs) assisted Marines and sailors. Selecting suits, shoes, and accessories before each woman took a professional headshot. As part of National Veterans and Military Families Month, the event also featured veteran panelists. Including Labor Relations Senior Manager, Bri Foster, who spoke about her journey from serving in the military to becoming an industry professional.
“When you see the looks on women’s faces when they see themselves, it is as powerful an experience for those who are standing behind the mirror as those who are standing in front of it.”
For Jeanne Costello, area manager for Operational Costuming, this opportunity to help women find the right professional attire was right up her alley.
“When you see the looks on women’s faces when they see themselves. It is as powerful an experience for those who are standing behind the mirror as those who are standing in front of it,” said Jeanne.
Santa Ana-based Working Wardrobes is a workforce and career readiness organization. That provides services and soft skill training for veterans and their families and others in need.
“It’s all about those who are serving in our community; it’s not about us,” said Michael Barrett, director of Client Services at Working Wardrobes. “The team from Disney has made an impact, tenfold.”
As a retired U.S. Marine and Purple Heart recipient, Michael utilizes the leadership skills he learned. During his 21 years of service in his work with Working Wardrobes.
Michael, pictured above. Stressed the importance of knowing that when veterans leave the military. Organizations like Disney will welcome them.
“Militarily speaking, [Disney and Working Wardrobes] are in lockstep. We’re marching together in a line, synced with the values and mission Disney brings to the table,” Michael said.
Disneyland Resort Senior Security Manager Kim Sims attended the event at the military base in Oceanside as a leader of SALUTE. A BERG is committed to enhancing the Disney experience. For those who have sacrificed in support of the military.
“Knowing that our company supports our military service members and families is huge,” said Kim. “Our cast members have such huge hearts and special talents. And those need to be shared within and outside of our resort.”
Although the Disney VoluntEARS went to share their skills and experiences, they were able to gain insight and knowledge from the women they were helping as well. “You gain a different perspective when you put yourself in someone else’s shoes,” said Jeanne. “I’m not in the military. So I was learning as much from them. As they were from me.”
About Community Workforce Development Initiative:
The Disneyland Resort collaborates with nonprofit organizations and school districts that serve a diverse set of needs in the community for youth and job seekers. The community workforce development initiative supports three pillars. Mentorship, career skills development, and community program support. The Disney VoluntEARS efforts at Camp Pendleton were part of the Disneyland Resort community workforce development initiative.
