Dresses
We collect formal gowns that are "lightly loved" and in beautiful condition — prom, homecoming, and winter formal dresses ready for a new owner to shine.
Our story
About Us — Our Story & Values
Every dance dress has a story — and so does Dress Campaign. Here's how one student's idea became a Wisconsin nonprofit, and the values that guide every dress we collect.
Founder's story
One student saw dresses that needed a second night
Dress Campaign was founded in March 2023 by Bella Smith, then a student at Brookfield Academy living in Stone Bank, Wisconsin. When her older sister Olivia headed off to college, Bella noticed something: rack after rack of formal dresses sitting in the closet, worn once and never touched again.
That observation became an organization. Bella began collecting lightly loved dance dresses, partnered with her school to run the first dress drive, and started organizing dress drops so Wisconsin teens could choose their own gown — at no cost and with no questions asked.
Our values
Three commitments behind every dress
From the gowns we accept to the way we treat every family we serve, these values shape everything Dress Campaign does.
Community Connections
We partner with stores, high schools, and individuals across multiple counties in Wisconsin, building a network that makes every dress drop possible.
Financials
We never ask for proof of income or financial documentation. Cost should never decide who gets to feel amazing on their dance night.
Media coverage
Dress Campaign in the news
Bella's story has been shared by local news and community publications across the Lake Country area.
Governance
How we're organized
Dress Campaign is run entirely by volunteers. Decisions are made transparently, and every hour and gift goes toward the mission.
Volunteer board
An all-volunteer board guides the organization — setting strategy, reviewing programs, and keeping the mission front and center.
Annual meeting
We hold an annual meeting where volunteers and supporters review the year, hear about progress, and weigh in on what comes next.
Zero paid staff
No one at Dress Campaign is paid. Every hour — collecting, sorting, and delivering dresses — is donated, so gifts go further.
Non-discrimination policy
Everyone is welcome at Dress Campaign
Dress Campaign Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, or military/veteran status in any of our programs, services, or activities. We believe every teen deserves their own dance dress, and we serve all students with dignity and respect.
This commitment applies to the teens we serve, the families and schools we work with, our volunteers, and anyone who contacts Dress Campaign. Access to our dresses and services is never conditioned on income, financial documentation, or any other factor unrelated to the mission.
Reporting a concern. If you believe this policy has been violated, please contact us at [email protected]. Reports may be made anonymously, and we respond within 5 business days.