Doctor Celebrates Anniversary With A Worthy Cause

“Look better. Feel better. You deserve it,” is the tagline at Westchase's Aguiar Plastic Surgery.

And the charitable organization Dress for Success is all about suiting up their clients, helping them feel encouraged and enthusiastic about entering or re-entering the workforce. 

Their similar missions brought them together on Tuesday night in conjunction with the doctor’s fifth anniversary celebration. 

“We always host an event on our anniversary, and wanted to do something particularly memorable on this special occasion," said board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph Aguiar, a board certified plastic surgeon. "We’re excited and pleased to contribute to Dress for Success because not only are we are passionate about improving Tampa as a whole, but we want to encourage women to re-enter the workforce."

Jennifer, Dr. Aguiar’s wife, was inspired to help Dress for Success after attending a networking event in January, where attendees were asked to bring in two pieces of jewelry.  One piece was swapped with the other participants and the second was donated to Dress for Success. 

The mom of eight-year-old twins, and a 19 year old son named Aaron, recalls worrying whether her clothes were up-to-date and appropriate for interviews. 

“I wasn’t always a doctor’s wife.  In fact, I was a single mom struggling to put myself through college at one time," she said. "I know what it’s like to be in a position to need help when you are simply trying to help yourself."

The event Mrs. Aguiar attended in January was hosted by Leslie Joy Ickowitz, Publisher of Vertical Tampa Bay, a virtual lifestyle and fashion magazine.

“This event is an ideal way to engage an organization that exists specifically to help women create their own career path," said Ickowitz, who also donated several items towards the evening’s raffle, including an overnight stay at the TradeWinds Resort and memberships to the Stellar Society. 

Speaking about the organization, Christi Clements, Dress for Success Board Member, referred to the old adage “You only get one chance to create a first impression."

“A good percentage of how you are perceived is based on your appearance," she said. "And we want our clients to feel a million bucks.”

The organization is suiting approximately 80-100 women per month, up from 40-50 eighteen months ago, said Brooke Madson, Dress for Success’ Board of Directors Chair. She attributes the 50 percent increase to the faltering economy. 

Dress for Success also has a career center and assists with resume building, interviewing, computer skills and more.

“For many of these women, society has kicked them to the curb.  They come to us, acquire new skills," Madson said. "Putting on a suit and – whether they’re applying for a job as a line cook or a paralegal – it’s a stepping stone in the right direction."

As a result of last night's event, two outfits will be donated to Dress for Success clients, along with skin care products.

Though raffle tickets were sold – with all proceeds benefiting Dress for Success – guests were not required to purchase tickets to attend.

“Tonight isn’t about selling," Jennifer Aguiar said. "It’s about being together as a community."