Civic Engagement
On this page, you’ll find an overview of the volunteer work I completed during my college years. Through my civic engagement, I have contributed to the fashion community while developing valuable skills in collaboration, leadership, and community building. These experiences have taught me how to create a positive and inclusive environment within the fashion industry.
New To You Volunteer Work
September 2025
I volunteered at the non-profit organization New To You, which is dedicated to promoting innovative solutions that support the surrounding community. New To You functions as a thrift store run entirely by volunteers, and all proceeds are donated to local Chicagoland schools and emergency housing initiatives. During my time there, I helped sort through multiple bags of donated clothing, tagged each item, and organized them on the appropriate racks.
Working behind the scenes opened my eyes on how much clothing and other goods get donated on a daily basis. This made me realize just how much of what we buy remains on Earth, contributing to the growing issue of consumer waste.
This experience reinforced my career goal of raising awareness about overconsumption and encouraging more sustainable consumer habits. In today’s world, media and trends constantly push us to buy new things, yet thrift stores offer a sustainable and meaningful alternative. By shopping secondhand, we not only reduce waste but also support important community causes rather than fueling the fast fashion industry.
FGI Volunteer Work
FGI is a non-profit organization that unites members of the fashion community across Chicago. I have had the privilege of working closely with the regional director, providing personal assistance during events and fashion show productions. Through these experiences, I have gained valuable skills in event management, backstage coordination, and budget oversight.
M.M. Lafleur Fall Fashion Styling & Spring 2026 Trend Report Event
November 2025
For this event, I assisted with various backstage operations. My responsibilities included organizing models in sequence for the runway, dressing models, and coordinating the clothing after the show. Participating in this event provided valuable insight into fall fashion trends and industry reports, while also offering an excellent opportunity to help strengthen connections within the fashion community.
Chicago Fashion Summit 2025
September 2025
I helped as a personal assistant to the Regional Director of FGI Chicago during the Chicago Fashion Summit event, part of Chicago Fashion Week. In this role, I supported VIP guests in the green room and ensured that keynote speakers had everything they needed for their presentations. Volunteering at this event allowed me to develop strong communication and client relations skills.
Blue Jacket Fashion Show
February 2025
