Blythe Hill
CEO & Founder
Dressember Foundation
Los Angeles, CA USA
“If you can impact even one person in a way that’s really lasting, that’s a big deal.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationBlythe Hill
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
I started at California State University, Fullerton as a theater major, quickly realized that wasn’t for me, and changed my major a couple of times before finally settling on English.
When I graduated with my bachelor’s degree, the recession had started, so I retreated back to graduate school and got my master’s degree in English.
Throughout school, I held multiple writing, editing, and photography jobs.
While pursuing my master’s, I needed a creative outlet, so I decided to use clothing to express myself and wore dresses for a month straight—the challenge became the inspiration for my nonprofit.
After graduate school, I moved to Los Angeles and worked as an account manager for a fashion forecasting company.
In 2013, I turned my dress-style challenge into a campaign for an organization I respected—with their social media promotion, “Dressember” raised $165,000 for anti-trafficking work in just one month.
Shortly after, I took the steps to make Dressember an official nonprofit organization...but I also had to work a few part-time jobs as the company was starting out.
I now manage the Dressember Foundation full time—since 2013, we’ve raised more than five million dollars for anti-trafficking work internationally!
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Career
CEO & Founder
I lead a growing, international movement of advocates helping to end human trafficking.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Non-Profit Organizations
Fashion
Upholding a Cause and Belief
Day to Day
I'm the CEO of a non-profit organization I founded that raises money and awareness for anti-trafficking initiatives. My job consists of grant-writing, emails and communications with partners, leading my team of 5 employees and 15-30 interns, and writing / giving speeches to raise awareness.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Ask for help and utilize your network. You may know a lot, but there is also a lot you don't know. I knew I wanted to make a change against human trafficking, but I didn't know how to file for a 501(c)3 or how to build a website. If you want to make a difference, you have to get comfortable with asking for help. Your network consists of the people you know and the people they know. Together, your network can be so powerful!
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Myself:
"I'm unqualified to make a difference."
Challenges I Overcame
Gangs / Violence
Changed Major
School Stress
Interviewed By
CSUF Roadtrip
California State University, Fullerton students and alumni
