Empowering Women and Building Community: How Milan Institute and Dress for Success Reno Are Changing Lives Together
Partnerships that promote empowerment and growth stand out as sources of hope. One exciting partnership is between Milan Institute of Cosmetology in Reno and Dress for Success Reno – Northern Nevada, a nonprofit that helps women gain economic independence. Together, they are making a real difference in Northern Nevada.
Dress for Success Reno has a powerful mission. They don’t just provide clothes for women; instead, they also give them the confidence and skills needed to take control of their futures. “We help women become economically independent by giving them support, professional clothing, and tools to help them succeed in work and life,” says Jessica Stack, the group’s Executive Director.
Each year, Dress for Success Reno hosts a special event called Recycle the Runway. It is a fashion show gala that celebrates transformation, both inside and out. For the 2025 event, Milan Institute’s students and staff offered their hair and makeup skills to help Dress for Success clients shine as models.
“Watching our clients walk the runway, confident and glowing, was truly inspiring,” says Stack. “Milan’s talented students made these women feel strong and celebrated. This was more than just a fundraiser; it showed what these women can achieve.”
Milan Institute was founded in 1985 by the Yasuda family, and it remains family-owned today. With over 50,000 graduates so far, the school focuses on building not only technical skills but also a commitment to community. Their work with Dress for Success is a perfect example of this.
Jessica Stack praises Milan Institute’s approach. “The Institute stands out because its staff is professional and cares about developing students beyond class. Moreover, they connect students with local causes, like ours. They help students find both skills and purpose.”
The partnership also benefits Milan Institute students. By preparing models for a big event like Recycle the Runway, students gain practical experience. Consequently, it builds their skills and confidence while helping women in their community feel empowered.
This partnership shows a clear idea: success is about personal achievement and the positive effects you create for others. For Dress for Success Reno and Milan Institute, this is just the start.
Both groups look forward to working together more in the future. “We are excited to grow this partnership in the years ahead,” Stack says with hope. Their shared story is about empowerment, change, and the strong power of community—a story that reaches far beyond the runway.
By mixing education, care, and community work, Milan Institute and Dress for Success Reno are not just changing lives; instead, they are creating a future where everyone can shine.