Women's Career Clothing Closet
Since 1998, the Women's Career Clothing Closet at Christian Help has been providing office-appropriate clothing to women who are seeking employment. Today we are serving over 500 women and we anticipate helping many more. Self- esteem is a major factor influencing employment success. The Career Closet is eager to assist by providing job and computer training referrals in addition to offering new and slightly worn office clothing free of charge. Remember, the Career Closet needs more than simply clothing, you can help by donating your time and expertise to contribute to program development and customer service, or by being a financial supporter of the program. For more information, please stop by or call Sherry, WCCC Coordinator, 304. 296. 0221.
WCCC Information
- The WCCC is considered a one-stop partner with WV Job Services.
- WCCC is by appointment-hours: Monday-Thursday 9-4, Friday 9-2, first Saturday of every month 10-1.
- WCCC provides a "boutique" style atmosphere with one-on-one client interaction for women in need of professional clothing, scrubs/uniforms, resume assistance, job-training referrals, referrals to computer and educational/vocational programs, and information on other resources.
- Clients fill out an intake form for their first visit at the WCCC. These forms allow for tracking that helps the WCCC better serve clients each time they visit. The one-on-one appointments allow Sherry to get to know clients on a regular basis and makes their experience more helpful and personal. Sherry also provides interview skills and advice to aid clients that are seeking employment.
- Customers can shop for two outfits and accessories per month. The visit includes a purse, shoes, accessories, and personal care items.
The WCCC Mission Statement
The Women's Career Clothing Closet - The Story
The Women's Career Clothing Closet was introduced in February 1998 following a request at Christian Help for job appropriate clothing. Using a model similar to Dress for Success, the Career Closet was launched on the third Saturday of every month. In the first year, 88 women were served with over 128 outfits.
This success reinforced the commitment to help local women increase employment opportunities. The program that began with the work of many dedicated volunteers continued to thrive when Sabrina Bindocci, an AmeriCorp VISTA volunteer, took over the task of building a full-time functioning Career Closet. Following her two-year term, Kate Roberts stepped in for a year of service.
This three-year period saw much improvement and expansion. The Career Closet moved to the third floor of Christian Help in 2001 following a renovation provided by the Hazel Ruby McQuain Memorial Foundation. The result was a comfortable boutique type atmosphere with one-on-one client interaction.
Opportunities were created to offer additional services such as resume assistance, job training referrals, childcare information, and makeup application. Clients of the Career Closet have included students from MTECH, Job Services, SPOKES, Head Start, DHHR and WV Junior College, to name a few.
In 2003, close to 300 women were served. This was made possible by in-kind donations from the community and venture funding by the United Way. Generous clothing contributions have consistently kept up with the ever increasing demand. Women are now permitted two complete outfits per month. The visit includes a purse, shoes, accessories, and personal care items.
According to clients of the WCCC, appropriate work attire and presentation skills provide the self-confidence that can make all the difference in employment opportunities. The Career Closet will continue to reach out to those in need by sharing these resources all in a spirit of Christian love and service.
Ways to become involved in WCCC:
- Donation of dress clothes and shoes
- Volunteer time to assist client with clothing selection
- Donate services as a beautician
- Assist with resume writing and teaching interview skills
- Organize an accessories drive at your office
- Tell a friend about the program
- Reach into your purse
- Ongoing needs of WCCC include volunteers, monetary donations, publicity, plus-size clothing, scrubs, and toiletry items.
- And Remember...Someone's Future is Hanging in Your Closet!
Key Performance Measures for 2006
- WCCC had 876 visits from women