When Karen Diegan arrived at a clothing boutique in Melbourne, Australia, she was tired from her hour-long train ride. She was also a little nervous. Diegan, a single mom, had spent three years looking for work as a receptionist. She needed a new summer wardrobe to use on interviews, but she couldn’t afford to buy clothes. Two sales associates quickly put her at ease and showed her around the store. Sunlight splashed into the boutique, huge mirrors hung on its pink walls, and jewelry filled…

To read this article and start a full year of unlimited online access, subscribe now!

Already a subscriber?

Need to register for your premium online access,
which is included with your paid subscription?

Support SSIR’s coverage of cross-sector solutions to global challenges. 
Help us further the reach of innovative ideas. Donate today.

Read more stories by Corey Binns.