PACE Program
Image: gapincsustainability.com
For nearly two decades, Eva Lea Klein worked as a seller at a retail store in Brazil. During this time, she took on all managerial roles at the store and handled any tasks that needed attention. After moving to the United States, Eva Lea Klein spent eight years working as a tailor for Banana Republic in Florida.
In an effort to support women around the world, Banana Republic maintains a collection of clothing items made through the Gap Inc. PACE program. An educational program, PACE (Personal Advancement & Career Enhancement) provides women with the confidence and skills they need to fulfill their dreams. It has been in operation since 2007 and hopes to impact 1 million women around the world by 2020.
Women who are involved in the PACE program are taught eight subjects, including problem solving, self-esteem, and communication skills. Through the program’s curriculum, women are more prepared for balancing their work and home lives and setting and achieving larger goals. It also helps participants create stronger work relationships.
When PACE was first created, it was done to help women who made Banana Republic clothing. However, it was expanded to include other women in various communities in 2013. In 2016, it was further expanded to reach girls between the ages of 13 and 17. Since its establishment, PACE has helped over 50,000 women in communities and factories in a dozen countries.
Eva Lea Klein 