Dress for Success Austin Releases Documentary Nationwide to Raise Awareness and Funds for Disadvantaged Women

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today Dress for Success Austin released the trailer of its recently premiered documentary, “In Her Shoes” with the film available for purchase and licensing worldwide.

“My hope is that the film will shine light on the lives of homeless women and the work that Dress for Success is doing to give these women a chance”

View the trailer: http://youtu.be/b49rIb3iWfk.

The short documentary features the story of former Dress For Success client, Betty Staehr. Directed by Brandy Amstel, “In Her Shoes” details the life of Betty, a once homeless woman who found refuge in the Dress for Success programs after leaving an abusive marriage.

Using the film as part of an ongoing fundraising effort, Dress For Success Austin raised more than $60,000 on the night of the sold-out premiere. For $300 organizations can purchase a licensing agreement to utilize the film as part of their own fundraising efforts. Individuals may purchase the film for $23 with $20 directly benefiting Dress for Success.

“My hope is that the film will shine light on the lives of homeless women and the work that Dress for Success is doing to give these women a chance,” said Staehr.

These funds will provide support to the non-profit’s mission of empowering disadvantaged women. To purchase the DVD or a licensing agreement, contact [e-mail].

Dress For Success Austin has helped thousands of women in Central Texas prepare to enter the workforce. Though progress has been made since its opening in 2003, a solution is far from being found to solve the growing problem of homelessness and unemployment. There are more than 400 single, homeless women living in Austin alone and only 50 shelter beds are made available each night.

“My goal for this film is to show people the power that we all have within us to make a difference in the lives of others. Betty’s story is not uncommon among women in our nation and it’s time for us to stand up for them,” said Amstel.

About Dress for Success Austin:

The Austin affiliate is part of an international not-for-profit organization that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Additionally, Dress for Success acts as a support network for women throughout their job search as well as time in the work force through several job retention programs. Since its launch in 2003, Dress for Success Austin has aided over 6,900 women who are raising 14,000 children. For more information visit www.dressforsuccess.org/austin.

About the Director

“In Her Shoes” was directed and produced by Brandy Amstel, award-winning filmmaker and host of the web TV talk show, “Living Powerfully with Brandy Amstel”. Brandy is the founder and CEO of LivingPowerfully.com and Set It Off! Productions, a company devoted to making a global impact through film and music. Brandy lives in Austin with her husband and their three pugs.