Designed For Joy Celebrates 200 Women Served

Designed For Joy Celebrates 200 Women Served

Last week, Designed For Joy gathered with friends, partners, and supporters to celebrate a milestone eight years in the making: the 200th woman served through our program. The evening was filled with color, joy, and gratitude as we reflected on the women whose lives have been transformed through meaningful work, comprehensive support, and a community that believes in second chances.

Already this year, more than 51 women have come through Designed For Joy's doors, with projections to serve over 60 by year’s end. As Kristen Sidow, Co-Founder and Designer, explained, the need is growing, with referrals up 118% from last year. “We’re doing our best to solidify the path from vulnerability to stability,” she said, noting the importance of competitive wage work and supportive services that foster advocacy and combat inequality.

Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell, who joined the celebration, praised the mission: “It’s obvious the products at Designed For Joy are aesthetically beautiful, but even more beautiful is the story and intent behind this work. The fact that you’ve helped 200 people and have alumni returning to assist and volunteer is amazing.”

Grace Morris, Executive Director, echoed that sentiment: “This milestone isn’t just about numbers. It’s about lives transformed. Each woman represents courage, resilience, and the chance to build a stronger future. These 200 women remind us why our work matters—and why we’re not finished.”

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About Designed For Joy

Designed For Joy provides women emerging from crisis with stability through transitional employment and support, removing the stigma of vulnerability.

We serve women navigating complex barriers to employment such as homelessness, justice involvement, substance use, domestic violence, human trafficking, or displacement as refugees. Women are referred by trusted partner organizations who offer housing, behavioral health care, and other critical services.

Once in our program, participants receive:

  • Competitive wages starting at $17.50 per hour, creating immediate financial stability

  • Flexible hours that honor life’s realities and responsibilities

  • Individualized care management connecting women to resources and essential services

  • Workforce readiness training that builds confidence and long-term employability

  • A safe, trauma-informed workplace rooted in dignity, support, and empowerment

At Designed For Joy, we believe every woman deserves the opportunity to earn a living wage through safe and dignified work. Here, women not only find employment, but also a community where they can share their experiences, celebrate their milestones, and build the confidence to prepare for what’s next.

For more information, visit designedforjoy.com  or contact Grace Morris at (919) 977-0052.

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