Dragonfly Thrift Boutique is more than just a simple thrift store.
Located at 3142 S.W. 8th St. in Little Havana, its mission is to offer formerly incarcerated women employment post-release and the chance to develop transferable skills and references that will enable them to prosper in the job market with its parent organization LEAP (Ladies Empowerment And Action Program).
The program offers transitional housing located within walking distance of their first post-release employment.
“Whatever harm someone may have done to others is not the first time they’ve encountered harm in their life,” said Jenneva Clauss, LEAP’s Director of Community Engagement. “Hurt people hurt people and we must break the cycle. It’s the only way to help and heal our communities.”
Dragonfly Thrift Boutique carries donated merchandise. They have men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, accessories, home furnishings and decor, tableware, glassware, kitchenware and small appliances.
On their website, you can find most of the in-store inventory as well as exclusive items like their “More Than” project.
The “More Than” project is a series of fashion drops designed by LEAP graduates. The designs are named after the graduates and each drop is accompanied by the woman’s story.
They’re having a fashion show on April 28 in Coral Gables at 536 Alhambra Circle where LEAP graduates will be modeling the “More Than” designs. The event will include cocktails, hors d’oeuvre, live music and more.
You can buy tickets here.
LEAP program graduate, Danielle Estes, who has been out of prison for seven months is an example of the program’s success.
She is currently an administrative assistant for LEAP and has spoken at county budget meetings to advocate for the rights of incarcerated women. She is also part of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, which fights for the rights of formerly convicted people.
“Humans do not wake up and decide to be a criminal and a drug addict,” Estes said. “They are guilty of being born into bad situations and are trying to survive and live the best life they can. That isn’t always easy for everyone.”
The Dragonfly Thrift Boutique is open on weekdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
