Stitching the Way to Stability

IW’s Vocational Services Program (VSP) held a graduation ceremony at our Rollins Avenue office to celebrate four clients who completed a six-week Seamstress Class. This initiative was designed to address the long-standing employment barriers to traditional employment. These barriers include limited English proficiency, literacy challenges, work authorization issues, disabilities, and transportation difficulties. One student is a single mother of four school-age children; another cares for a child with special needs—yet all showed up week after week, determined to move forward.

The class was led by Christina (a pseudonym), a former IW client who joined VSP in 2018. A skilled seamstress living with a disability and speaking only Spanish, Christina had a dream of teaching others her skills. She told us, “I had no job. Getting up and getting ready to teach my skills to others gave me a purpose.” Her students connected deeply with her, inspired by both her resilience and generosity.

Held at the IW Essential Needs Center, the training offered more than sewing basics. Christina taught machine skills: how to thread, change needles, clean, and maintain equipment. As well as fabric cutting, measuring, and garment adjustments. Additionally, students had the opportunity to practice tailoring real items for real clients, IW staff (for free)—gaining valuable hands-on experience and developing their customer service skills in the process.

The last week of training included a business development workshop led by Chesapeake Tech Solutions, made possible through our partnership with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. This final session introduced students to the fundamentals of launching a home-based business and turning their skills into income.

During the graduation reception, participants proudly showcased their completed projects: pillowcases, tote bags, aprons, and tailored garments crafted from donated and recycled materials.

Now, Christina and two of her students are exploring a business partnership, a testament to what’s possible with support, determination, and community. Most importantly, these women have not only formed a lasting friendship, but also a circle of encouragement and routine that gives them purpose, confidence, and a renewed belief in themselves.

We are grateful to everyone who helped make this class happen. We look forward to identifying more avenues for clients to learn and gain skills. Together we will help our neighbors along their path to stability.