Dress for Success Worldwide, an international not-for-profit organization that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing them with professional attire, has announced an additional $2.5 million in funding from the Walmart Foundation to expand a program for un- and underemployed women.

The grant will fund half a dozen Going Places Network by Walmart programs over the next two years, helping at least five thousand women gain professional skills, accelerate their job searches, and build confidence through weekly training sessions, one-on-one career coaching, and networking in a supportive environment. Awarded through Walmart's Global Women's Economic Empowerment Initiative, the grant builds on the $2 million awarded by the foundation to launch GPN in 2011. To date, twenty-two hundred women across the United States have completed a twelve-week GPN course, with 41 percent going on to secure employment.

"The Walmart Foundation's support of the Going Places Network helps women receive the career guidance and job preparation services they need to re-enter the workforce knowing they possess skills that are in demand and career aspirations they've learned how to achieve," said Walmart Foundation senior director Michelle Gilliard. "GPN helps women provide for their families by putting them on the path to career success. We are proud of the women who are regaining control of their lives through this program, and are excited to be in partnership with Dress for Success, which is providing the services and resources that help women live better."