Our Cause & Mission
Gowns for a Cause is a new non-profit 501(c)3 community service organization whose story began in 2013.
We collect donations of new and like-new bridal and formal gowns and accessories that are rented in our bridal boutique in Edinburg TX & online.
The money raised from both the boutique and the online rentals along with monetary donations helps us fulfill our mission.
Our boutique not only offers a chance to less fortunate women, but it provides our shoppers the amazing opportunity to shop for a worthy cause, while also renting their dream gown at a fraction of the cost!
We are dedicated to empowering women in need to change their lives and of those around them.
Our mission is to:
- Provide jobs for local women escaping abuse.
- Allocate Real Estate for temporary shelter and safe housing for women and children victims of domestic violence. Currently there is no such housing in our area.
- Distribute gowns to disadvantaged women that cannot afford one for special moments such as prom or their wedding day.
- Support other non-profits financially, that are catalysts for positive change, with a focus in gender equality, education, healthcare, leadership, and technology to break down social and economic barriers.
In route to raise 2,000 gowns in 2019!
Founder / President
Nancy Velazquez grew up in Mexico, she was raised by her maternal grandmother, and later in life she was reunited with her estranged mother.
Nancy has been happily married to Ruben and together they have raised 3 kids.
She has been a Realtor and a RE investor for over 20 yrs. and currently the most reviewed agent in TX.
Nancy is a strong believer in the empowerment of women, and is why she founded Gowns for a Cause. She is an active volunteer in several organizations that focuses in helping women and children in need.
“I am thankful to God and the Universe for saving me from the stigma that a child conceived by rape carries. Growing up I felt a disconnection with my mother but I really never understood what it was, until late in life I learn that my father could be any of three men that sexually assaulted my mother. Knowing helped me comprehend and appreciate my mother even more. I am thankful to my mother, grandmother and to the many women in my life, which have been remarkable role models, and have helped and molded me in whom I am today; I truly could have not done it without them.
I don’t let genes define me; I choose to live my life with gratitude, love, empowerment and currently fulfilling my purpose in life!”.
“A woman empowered can change her life and of those around her, and is essential for the overall development of the nation and the world”
The Process for our gowns
After our gowns are collected, they are professionally cleaned, and inspected by our wonderful, caring, and knowledgeable volunteers and employees.
Any gown needing work like loose beading, missing zipper, buttons, etc., and once fixed, it goes to our stream area for the ultimate makeover!
Once the gowns are inspected, detailed and steamed, they are taken into our resale store for brides to buy.
Our Donated Products
Gowns
Our dresses are new or slightly worn, are not limited to bridal gowns, we have an array of evening gowns, prom dresses, and more.
Designer labels such as Lazaro, Reem Acra, Watters, Allure Bridal, Monique Lhuillier, Sottero, Theia, Madison James, Stella York, Enzaoni, WTOO, and more. Our gowns start at $99.00
Accessories
We have veils, sashes, earrings, bracelets, combs, headbands, tiaras , shoes, capes and more.