styleWORKS is a Brooklyn, New York-based non-profit organization that provides free comprehensive grooming services, i.e., hair styling, make-up application, skincare analysis/facials/waxing, clothing, accessories, and image consulting to women who are moving from welfare to work. Coupled with, first and foremost, a comprehensive job training program, styleWORKS strives to add a fresh and useful dimension to the steps needed to make a successful transition from welfare to private sector employment.

Once styleWORKS receives an application for a group of clients from areferring agency, an appointment is made for an initial makeover consultation presentation. During the consultation, a member of the styleWORKS team ascertains exactly what styling services each client will need to facilitate a professional image and enhance the client's self esteem in preparation for a job interview. It is our hope that all of our clients leave us feeling confident that their appearance and grooming are suitable for the job for which they are applying. At their makeover appointment, in addition to the grooming services, we speak with each client individually about interviewing techniques and etiquette, as well as give the clients various handouts that focus on skincare, the interview process, and practical business tips. At the end of the session, each client receives three thank you cards with self-addressed stamped envelopes to send to the members of their makeover team.

Once a client is employed,she is eligible to enroll in the Clairol/styleWORKS Job Retention Mentoring Program. All clients are invited to join the styleWORKS/PEN American Center Book Group at anytime. Both programs are geared towards supporting our clients throughout each aspect of their journey from welfare to satisfying long-term employment.

styleWORKS receives client referrals from 22 job training and employment referral organizations in New York City. styleWORKS would not be able to operate without the generous assistance we receive from our committed volunteers. In order to offer free services, salon owners throughout New York City donate their salons once a month so that volunteer hair stylists, make-up artists, and image consultants can use the space to makeover styleWORKS clients. In addition, companies who are dedicated to supporting community-based organizations donate most of the product used for the makeovers.