It began as a class project. Veronika and her classmates were challenged to design something that fills a need in Detroit. She came up with her innovative coat after doing research at homeless shelters.

While the coats are definitely useful, Veronika realized that many homeless people needed more long-lasting help—jobs. To give homeless people a chance at financial stability, she started The Empowerment Plan. This non-profit employs individuals from shelters to make the coats, then donates them to people living on the street around the country. The company’s workforce is able to give back while getting back on their own feet.