Makeovers That Matter Honors Female Veterans

Group Shot

Group Shot

They’ve fought for our loftiest democratic ideals, but female veterans can feel adrift when transitioning to civilian life. Enter Makeovers That Matter (MTM), a nonprofit designed to serve them—mind, body and soul. Sure, the organization gets the veterans interview-ready with makeovers, from free hair and makeup to wardrobe counseling services. But veterans also receive pro bono counseling with employment specialists who help them write résumés, teach them successful interview skills and evaluate long-term career opportunities. “Finally, empowerment counseling helps instill these women with the confidence they need to get back on their feet and triumphantly enter the workforce,” explains founder and president Michael John Derricott. “We believe in makeovers from the inside out.”

Even better, The Mindset Program—a 12-session course—holistically prepares participants for not only a career but also a life they love in the workplace, home and community. Instructors who specialize in these fields tackle topics like emotional intelligence, diet/nutrition, exercise, yoga/meditation, hair and makeup, wardrobe styling, financial literacy, women’s health, home organization and job interviews. “MTM produces four to five Mindset Programs in the Los Angeles area annually; most recently, three makeover events for black women veterans, which provided a day of pampering for 24 women at three salons,” Derricott details. “Ongoing, we provide all-day makeover events for each graduate of The Mindset Program, and work with the annual Pamper Me Day at the Veteran’s Administration in West Los Angeles.”

Thanks to big-name brand partners (think John Paul Mitchell Systems, Orly and Kevin.Murphy, to name a few), MTM’s momentum is gaining. Now, the MTM team is raising money to create online access to The Mindset Program (look for a fundraiser sponsored by The City Club Los Angeles on May 4), and arranging another Mindset Program in L.A. for July. “Our goals are to develop, produce and implement an online version so that we may serve as many women as possible, and continue to produce The Mindset Program locally and nationally,” Derricott concludes. “It’s our mission to serve veterans from roots to boots, from hair to heart, from combat to career.” 

[Image courtesy of Makeovers that Matter]

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