“Made in the Cedar Valley” celebrates local businesses that combine quality craftsmanship with a deep commitment to their people and place. Each story highlights how these companies contribute to the region’s economy, culture, and identity. Dignity Apparel stands out in this series because it not only makes clothing in Waterloo, it does so with heart, purpose, and a belief in building community through meaningful work.

Creating Opportunity Through Purpose

Dignity Apparel in Waterloo is redefining what it means to make clothing in the United States.
Built on the belief that every person deserves respect, fair wages, and safe working conditions,
the company creates dignified, life-changing jobs while producing quality garments that
customers are proud to wear.

At the heart of their mission is a simple idea: work can be meaningful when people are valued.

A Commitment to People

Every garment at Dignity Apparel begins with people. The company employs a skilled union
workforce and partners with organizations that care deeply about producing 100% USA-made,
union-made products. Their apparel is made entirely in the United States using American fibers
and fabrics. From cutting and sewing to packaging, it all happens right here.

For many employees, this work provides stability, supports their families, and builds a sense of
community.

Shabani’s Story

One of those team members is Shabani, Sewing Floor Supervisor at Dignity Apparel. He joined
the company in 2023, managing the sewing team, overseeing daily production, quality-checking
garments, and coordinating the cutting line.

“I am thankful for Image Pointe and Dignity Apparel and the opportunity to work for them. I feel
like family here and I am cared for and loved very much,” Shabani shares.

Shabani’s journey to Waterloo started in 2016 when he came to the United States after violence
and conflict overtook the area where he is originally from in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Today, he uses his position at Dignity Apparel as an extension of his work in the community.

“I am a community leader and pastor, and working at Dignity Apparel is an extension of my
ministry. I love serving people and helping them,” he says.

Speaking five languages, Shabani also helps translate for employees and families who are new
to the area. “I can help non-English speaking individuals get access to services like healthcare
and jobs. I can do the same thing for people here at Dignity Apparel.”

Shabani’s story reflects the heart of Dignity Apparel’s mission – providing opportunity, stability,
and dignity for every person who walks through its doors.

Guided by Core Values

Dignity Apparel’s approach to business is rooted in a set of values that define how they operate
every day:

• Dignity Providing a safe and respectful environment for every employee
• Family Offering fair wages, strong benefits, and a culture where people feel cared for
• Relationships Building trust with employees, customers, and partners for long-term success
• Excellence Striving for high standards in every garment they produce
• Honesty & Integrity Leading with transparency in every interaction

These values influence every decision, from the way products are made to the relationships built with team members and customers.

Reviving American Manufacturing

In the 1960s, nearly all clothing worn in the United States was made domestically. Over time,
that number has sharply declined. Dignity Apparel is working to bring those jobs back by
producing apparel made from American fibers and fabrics, sewn in union factories by people
who earn fair wages and benefits.

By creating sustainable, local manufacturing jobs, Dignity Apparel is helping rebuild an industry
while improving the lives of workers and their families.

Impact by the Numbers

Dignity Apparel’s growth reflects its dedication to people and purpose:

• 1,000+ days of dignified jobs created
• 136 U.S.-based jobs supported
• 400,000+ garments produced

Each number represents opportunity.

A Cedar Valley Company Making a Difference

Dignity Apparel’s products are shipped across the country, but its heart is right here in Waterloo.

By combining craftsmanship, care, and opportunity, the company is creating stability,
empowering employees and helping families build brighter futures.

For Dignity Apparel, success is measured by people and their work is changing lives in the
Cedar Valley and beyond