Our volunteers are essential to the success of our organization. We are honoured to recognize them for the gifts, talents and dedication they share with the Dress for Success Vancouver community.
The Deb Twocock Award
The Deb Twocock Award is a legacy honour named for the first Executive Director of Dress for Success Vancouver. Deb was an essential part of growing the Dress for Success Vancouver community from its infancy and we celebrate her memory with this honour. The Deb Twocock award is given to an existing volunteer who has exceeded all expectations in their role as a Dress for Success Vancouver volunteer. They heard the call to serve and did so in such a manner that their excellence was seen by all and had to be recognized. This award is given annually and voted on by the Board of Directors.
The Lucia Crosson Award
The Lucia Crosson award is for a new volunteer who broke the mold and shined in their role as a member of the Dress for Success Vancouver community. Like the Deb Twocock award, this is a legacy award that commemorates the work and dedication of past founding staff member Lucia Crosson. Lucia’s commitment to uplifting all members of Dress for Success Vancouver is reflected in the award winners. This award is given annually and voted on by the Board of Directors.
The Volunteer of the Month Award
Because so many of our volunteers go above and beyond the call of duty, we celebrate the contributions of one special volunteer every month. Our Volunteers of the Month are nominated and voted on by staff for exceptional recent contributions to Dress for Success Vancouver.
2025 Deb Twocock Award
For nearly two decades, Scott has been a steady and powerful presence at Dress for Success Vancouver. After a 35-year career with BMO, she began volunteering with us in 2006 and has dedicated herself ever since to empowering women as a stylist and mentor – helping them build confidence, develop financial skills, and see themselves in a new light. In the boutique, her empathy and care create genuine moments of transformation where clients feel seen, valued, and uplifted. Scott’s commitment, warmth, and deep belief in women’s potential have left a lasting mark on our community, and her legacy lives on in every woman she has supported. Congratulations, Scott, on this truly well-deserved honour!
2025 Lucia Crosson Award
Josiane first joined Dress for Success Vancouver as an Adler student completing her practicum, and has since become a dedicated and trusted volunteer. She brings professionalism and genuine care to every mentor session and WWG interview she supports – confidently facilitating sessions and generously sharing her expertise with those around her. Her outstanding commitment and reliability has made a lasting impact on our community, and we are so grateful to have her as part of our team. Congratulations, Josiane, on this well-deserved recognition!
Volunteer of the Month: April 2026
We are proud to recognize Masha Tkatchouk as our Volunteer of the Month for April.
“My connection to DFSV began with my own interview fitting in 2016, which was such a positive and empowering experience. Later, during a period of transition, I wanted to find something joyful and meaningful at a pace that worked for me. I realized how much I love sorting clothing, and DFSV immediately came to mind. Doing something I enjoy while helping women felt like the perfect fit.
After my very first volunteer shift, I was hooked. Volunteering has become a reward for me – a place where I find joy, purpose, and connection while making a difference.”
Thank you, Masha, for all that you do.
Volunteer of the Month: March 2026
We’re excited to spotlight Connie Laalo as our March Volunteer of the Month.
Since joining Dress for Success Vancouver at the start of 2025, Connie has quickly become an invaluable part of our community. As a Volunteer Stylist, she brings warmth, care, and connection to every appointment, helping clients feel confident, comfortable, and truly themselves.
For Connie, the most meaningful moments are simple and powerful: when a client looks in the mirror, smiles, and says, “I look like me.” In just 75 minutes, she creates an experience that leaves a lasting impact.
We are so grateful for Connie’s dedication, positivity, and the way she shows up for the clients we serve. Thank you, Connie, for all that you do.
Volunteer of the Month: February 2026
We are proud to recognize Lucy Schilling as our February Volunteer of the Month.
For more than a decade, Lucy has been a dedicated champion of Dress for Success Vancouver. From her early days on the gala committee to her leadership as a Board member, she continues to show up with generosity and purpose, including her ongoing support of the Success Luncheon.
Lucy is inspired by the powerful transformations that happen when women feel prepared and supported. Witnessing that shift toward confidence and possibility is what keeps her connected to this work.
We are grateful for Lucy’s ongoing commitment to creating space for women to grow, lead, and move forward with clarity and strength. Thank you, Lucy, for all that you do!
Volunteer of the Month: January 2026
Natalija knows that the right outfit can do more than look good, it can boost confidence and help women shine in interviews and new workplaces.
Volunteering with Dress for Success Vancouver is deeply meaningful to her. Natalija loves supporting clients during pivotal moments, helping them feel confident, valued, and ready to take on new opportunities.
With patience, empathy, and a keen eye for style, she helps each client find clothing that reflects their unique personality while lifting their confidence. She’s motivated by the chance to give back and inspired by the compassion of our team and fellow volunteers.
Thank you, Natalija, for bringing heart, style, and empowerment to every woman you support!
Volunteer of the Month: December 2025
We are thrilled to recognize Lucia as our Volunteer of the Month for December!
Since joining us as a Volunteer Stylist in May, Lucia has been a positive, reliable, and dedicated presence in our boutique. After retiring seven years ago, she sought meaningful ways to give back and now uses the skills from her 37-year public service career to empower women and gender-diverse individuals.
For Lucia, volunteering with us is important because it allows her to support others in gaining confidence, opportunity, and a sense of empowerment on their path to financial independence. Our mission aligns closely with her values, motivating her to share her time and expertise in a purposeful way.
She shares that volunteering has strengthened her appreciation for community and connection, and has enriched her own sense of purpose. Witnessing the impact of small acts of support has been both humbling and inspiring.
Lucia’s warmth, commitment, and passion truly embody the spirit of our mission.
Thank you, Lucia, for all that you do!
Volunteer of the Month: November 2025
We are proud to recognize our November Volunteer of the Month: Selena Woo.
As the Event Chair for the 2025 Success Luncheon and a valued workshop speaker, Selena has shared her leadership, care, and heart with our community.
For Selena, volunteering with Dress for Success Vancouver is personal. As a woman of colour and first-generation Canadian, she has seen how access, confidence, and community can break generational cycles, and she believes Dress for Success Vancouver creates those moments for the client we serve every day.
She is motivated by the pathways to financial independence and confidence that our programs create. Volunteering has also reminded her that impact is not only about resources, it’s about representation, encouragement, and standing with women as they rewrite their stories. Each connection strengthens her commitment to helping build a community where women and their children can thrive.
Thank you Selena for your generosity, leadership, and belief in this work. We are grateful for all that you do!
Volunteer of the Month: October 2025
We’re proud to recognize our October Volunteer of the Month: Shirley Lee
For Shirley, volunteering at Dress for Success Vancouver is about helping women and gender-diverse individuals see the best in themselves. After returning to Vancouver from Hong Kong in 2021, she donated 11 bags of her work clothes and soon joined as a Volunteer Stylist.
Shirley remembers her very first shift, when she helped a client who teared up seeing her reflection, saying she finally saw the “new me.” It’s a moment Shirley will never forget.
Since then, she’s styled clients from all walks of life, helping each one discover confidence in their own unique style. Volunteering keeps her connected to fashion, her community, and her daughters—who love that she gets to “play dress up” while making a difference.
Thank you, Shirley, for sharing your heart, creativity, and kindness with our community. We are so grateful to have you on our volunteer team!
Volunteer of the Month: September 2025
We’re proud to recognize our September Volunteer of the Month: Caprice Waterman
Over the past year, Caprice has shared her time and talents with DFS Vancouver in so many ways—from styling clients in our boutique to supporting our team with social media at events.
“Volunteering has given me a place to feel purposeful during a difficult transition, and a community of women lifting each other up. I’ve loved making clients feel safe, inspired, and confident while finding pieces that fit their professional journey.”
Caprice’s creativity and heart shine through in everything she does, whether piecing together the perfect outfit or growing her marketing portfolio alongside our team.
Thank you, Caprice, for bringing your skills, positivity, and passion to Dress for Success Vancouver. We’re so grateful for all you do!
Volunteer of the Month: August 2025
This month, we’re celebrating Monique Badun, who has been a dedicated Board Member of Dress for Success Vancouver since 2016. From the moment she learned about our grassroots beginnings and global network of like-minded volunteers, Monique knew this was the place she wanted to give her time and heart.
“I was hooked. This is exactly what I believed in: helping women help themselves,” she shares.
Throughout her tenure, Monique has witnessed firsthand the powerful ripple effects of our work: women stepping into employment, finding financial independence, and contributing to the strength of our local communities. She believes in the transformative impact of a steady job and income, and in the role Dress for Success Vancouver plays in making those opportunities possible.
As she prepares to complete her board term this fall, we’re so grateful for Monique’s years of service, leadership, and compassion.
Thank you, Monique, for helping women write their own success stories. Congratulations!
Volunteer of the Month: July 2025
We’re proud to celebrate Lily Gu, our Volunteer of the Month for July 2025! Lily joined Dress for Success Vancouver in 2022 through cohort #39 of the Professional Women’s Group and quickly became a committed mentor. Inspired by our mission and her passion for empowering women, Lily has supported four mentees with care and dedication. Each one has left a unique impression, and she’s felt honoured to witness their growth and self-discovery.
For Lily, the most meaningful part of volunteering is building lasting, authentic relationships. It’s been incredibly rewarding for her to see her mentees become more confident, hopeful, and ready to embrace what’s next.
Thank you, Lily, for being a vital part of our community and reminding us of the power of connection and support. Congratulations!
Volunteer of the Month: June 2025
We’re proud to recognize Sheryl Mañago as the June 2025 Volunteer of the Month! Sheryl recently joined Dress for Success Vancouver as a practicum student and has become a valued member of our volunteer team. Currently a student in the Post-Degree Diploma in Business Management program at VCC, Sheryl goes above and beyond with her time and talents. Whether supporting behind the scenes or offering thoughtful guidance, her integrity, generosity, and quiet leadership make a lasting impact at Dress for Success Vancouver. Thank you, Sheryl, for all that you do!
Volunteer of the Month: May 2025
We are delighted to honour Zaena Tesfa as our May Volunteer of the Month! Zaena has worked with Dress for Success Vancouver as an Admin Volunteer since January 2025. Right away, she impressed us with her enthusiasm and commitment. Her approach is consistently warm, thoughtful, and optimistic. In just a few months, Zaena has proven to be a valuable volunteer team member. We are so grateful for her commitment to our work and mission. Congratulations Zaena!
Volunteer of the Month: April 2025
We are proud to share that Dana Yanko is our April Volunteer of the Month! Dana’s journey is a testament to the power of direct connection and the joy of giving back. Her volunteerism began with Dress for Success Vancouver only 4 months ago as a Stylist and she has already made an incredible impact on our clients. Please join us in congratulating Dana for her service and enthusiasm to uplift and support others. We are so grateful to have you part of our incredible community of volunteers!
Volunteer of the Month: March 2025
Jenn Wint has been a dedicated Dress for Success Vancouver volunteer for over a decade. She began as a Stylist in our boutique, volunteering alongside her mother, before joining the Success Luncheon committee in 2014 – a role she continues to support in today. Jenn now lends her expertise to PR, media, and communications, playing an important role in amplifying our mission. Congratulations Jenn, we are so grateful for your unwavering commitment and passion!
Volunteer of the Month: February 2025
Let’s celebrate Penny as our February Volunteer of the month! Penny has been an integral part of the Admin Volunteer team since 2017. Her notable work ethic, alignment to our mission and willingness to chip in wherever needed sets a high standard for others to follow. She demonstrates the positive impact one can have through volunteerism and a community connection. Congratulations Penny!
Volunteer of the Month: January 2025
We’re excited to kick off the new year by recognizing Kim Lucy as our January 2025 Volunteer of the Month!
As a Volunteer Stylist, Kim brings professionalism, attention to detail, and a warm, engaging presence to every client she supports. Since joining us in 2023, her dedication and commitment have made a meaningful impact on the lives of the women we serve.
Thank you, Kim, for your incredible contributions. We’re grateful to have you as part of our Volunteer Team!
Volunteer of the Month: December 2024
We are thrilled to announce Priya Gupta as our Volunteer of the month for December. While also working full time and studying business management at VCC, Priya makes the time to give back as a Volunteer Administrator. She is deeply committed to making a positive impact in the community.
Congratulations Priya!
Volunteer of the Month: November 2024
For November, we are delighted to recognize all the incredible volunteers who made the 2024 Success Luncheon possible.
This includes the 10 dedicated members of our 2024 Success Luncheon Event Committee and the 40 amazing individuals who supported setup, event day operations, and teardown. Your extraordinary efforts helped us welcome new guests and sponsors into our community, creating an unforgettable day of connection, inspiration, and support for our mission.
To our event committee and all our volunteers: thank you for making the 2024 Success Luncheon a success! Your passion and dedication uplift the women we serve and highlight the power of coming together.
Volunteer of the Month: October 2024
Dress for Success Vancouver has the pleasure of announcing Megan Quito as our October Volunteer of the Month.
Megan has been a Stylist in our Dressing Services program starting August 2023, and has been an invaluable member of our Dressing Services Team ever since. As a Style Advisor at her current workplace, she brings expertise in understanding clients’ needs and style preferences, which has been a valuable asset to our team. Recently, Megan stepped into the new role of a Lead Stylist, overseeing Dressing Services operations, assuring positive overall client experience and boutique maintenance during her shift. Her leadership and willingness to help in any area where support is needed has been greatly appreciated.
Thank you Megan for all your hard work!
Volunteer of the Month: September 2024
We are proud to present Mackenzie Jones as Dress for Success Vancouver’s September Volunteer of the Month.
Mackenzie supports our mission through two key roles: as a workshop speaker and as our Junior Board Member. She joined the board in June 2023, and has brought a fresh perspective and new community connections to our organization. Professionally, Mackenzie works in executive recruitment, and shares her expertise in talent acquisition and relationship-building with the Dress for Success community by leading engaging workshops. Her most recent workshop had an impressive turnout, and will be returning for a part 2 in the new year.
Thank you, Mackenzie, for your outstanding support and dedication to our community!
Volunteer of the Month: August 2024
For the month of August, we are excited to recognize Lisa Cheng for her exceptional service as a volunteer sorter.
For the past three years, Lisa has been an invaluable member of our volunteer team, consistently dedicating her time and energy to support our operations. Her commitment to the sorting room, where she spends most of her time, is truly remarkable, and while much of her work happens behind the scenes, the impact is directly felt by our clients and the overall success of our boutique. Her willingness to step up and train new volunteers, and foster a welcoming, positive environment has made a lasting impression on everyone. Lisa not only helps to keep things running smoothly but also ensures that our community of volunteers feels supported and valued.
Her dedication to Dress for Success Vancouver is deeply appreciated, and we are incredibly grateful for her continued support. Thank you, Lisa!
Volunteer of the Month: July 2024
We are pleased to present Michele Thomson as Dress for Success Vancouver’s July Volunteer of the Month.
Michele joined DFS Vancouver as a volunteer in 2023, and since then has served as a workshop and Professional Women’s Group speaker, and a mentor to four PWG members. Michele is a Registered Nurse turned Workplace Culture Specialist, and Executive Coach. She uses her expertise to lead workshops that educate women on burnout, and how to resolve conflict in the workplace. Michele is recognized by both the DFSV programming team and her mentees for her warmth, profound knowledge, and kindness.
We are so grateful for Michele’s commitment to uplifting women and creating an equitable future for all.
Volunteer of the Month: June 2024
We are excited to announce Sophia Birbeck as our June Volunteer of the Month!
Since joining us as a stylist in October 2023, Sophia has consistently dedicated her time and talents each month. Her patience and calm demeanour have made styling sessions a pleasant and truly enjoyable experience for our clients. Sophia’s personable nature, ability to identify and connect with each individual’s style, and dedication to going the extra mile have left a lasting impact. Clients frequently express their gratitude for Sophia’s friendly, supportive attitude and expert guidance, highlighting how she makes them feel both confident and comfortable.
Thank you, Sophia, for your outstanding service and unwavering commitment!
Volunteer of the Month: May 2024
We’re thrilled to name Ermin Badzak our Volunteer of the Month for May.
Since 2018, Ermin has captured unforgettable moments with his photography, bringing warmth and joy to our community. From authentic ambassador photoshoots to honoring single mothers and caregivers, and preserving memories at our Success Luncheons, Ermin’s work beautifully tells stories of resilience and hope. His dedication to highlighting the beauty of others enriches us all, embodying the true spirit of volunteerism.
Thank you, Ermin, for your invaluable service and the light you bring into our lives. Congratulations!
Volunteer of the Month: April 2024
We are delighted to honour Angélica Arcuri as Volunteer of the Month for April.
Angélica joined us shortly after arriving in Canada from Brazil and has quickly become an integral part of our team. Since mid-February, she has completed 20 shifts—double the requirement for our Volunteer to Work program! Throughout this time, Angélica has improved her English, built strong connections with fellow volunteers, and gained the confidence to step into the stylist role!
We are so proud of her achievements, and thrilled to share that she has recently started a job at H&M. Congratulations, Angélica!
Volunteer of the Month: March 2024
We are excited to recognize Hellen Kenganzi as our Volunteer of the Month for March.
Hellen joined us through our Volunteer to Work program after moving from Uganda to Canada, and has has swiftly become a vital member of our team with a willingness to support our Dressing Services Program from sorting to styling. During her time with us, Hellen has formed meaningful relationships with her fellow volunteers and demonstrated remarkable dedication to her role. We’re also thrilled to announce that Hellen has recently embarked on her professional career in Canada.
Congratulations, Hellen, on your outstanding contributions and achievements!
Volunteer of the Month: February 2024
Our Volunteer of the Month, Lisa Woods, has made a tremendous impact on Dress for Success Vancouver since she joined our team as a clothing donor in July 2021. Her ongoing commitment to volunteering as a stylist since November 2022, assisting women with outfit selection and confidence-building, has been invaluable.
Despite her busy schedule, Lisa willingly steps in, even on short notice, ensuring our programs run smoothly. We genuinely appreciate Lisa’s consistent dedication and significant contributions to our cause.
Outside of volunteering with us, Lisa spends a great deal of time looking after her two Labradoodles, Teddy and Chip. She also enjoys all things interior design, using her home as a test lab for new ideas, and helping friends and neighbours with their spaces. And travelling with her hubby brings her great joy.
Congratulations, Lisa, on being named Volunteer of the Month.
Volunteer of the Month: January 2024
We are delighted to honour Agnes Bangash as Volunteer of the Month for January.
Agnes’s journey with Dress for Success Vancouver began in October 2023 when she joined as a sorter. From the outset, her dedication and enthusiasm were evident as she quickly adapted to her initial role. Agnes not only embraced her responsibilities but also expressed a proactive willingness to contribute in additional capacities. In November, she seamlessly transitioned into admin shifts, showcasing her versatility and unwavering commitment to our organization.
Going above and beyond, Agnes dedicates some Tuesday mornings to sorting and seamlessly transitions into an afternoon admin shift—a true testament to her passion for our mission. Her commitment extends further with the regular contribution of two volunteer shifts a week, demonstrating her eagerness to actively engage and support our community.
Agnes, your impact on our organization is invaluable, and we extend our gratitude for your hard work, positive attitude, and willingness to go the extra mile. Congratulations once again on being named Volunteer of the Month.
Volunteer of the Month: December 2023
We are delighted to honor a dedicated member of our Professional Women’s Group (PWG) mentor community as our Volunteer of the Month for December! Jacqueline Love Wilson, a passionate advocate for increasing the number of women in leadership roles, has been actively mentoring four women across two different PWG cohorts throughout the past year. Beyond generously dedicating her time, Jacqueline stands out as an exceptional mentor by fostering an environment where her mentees truly feel acknowledged and understood.
Jacqueline’s impact goes beyond the conventional mentorship role; she possesses a unique ability to create an authentic and safe space where individuals can freely express themselves and be heard. As one of her mentees eloquently stated, “[Jacqueline’s] superpower lies in crafting a genuine safe space, allowing individuals to embrace vulnerability and be guided towards greater self-awareness.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jacqueline for her unwavering generosity and passion within our community.
Volunteer of the Month: November 2023
Our Volunteers of the Month for November 2023 are the wonderful members of the 2023 Success Luncheon Committee.
Because of their extraordinary efforts, we had an incredibly successful turnout of 500+ guests and sponsors celebrating our community, and raising essential funds for our programs.
Thank you to the committee and to our amazing team of volunteers who helped us pull off such a beautiful event.
