Helping Women Join the Professional Workforce

Do the clothes make the woman? When looking for a good job, good clothes certainly help, but for a low-income woman, a good quality professional wardrobe can be difficult to afford. Suited for Change works to make this easier.

Low-income women face many challenges entering the professional work force. One important barrier that stands in the way of success is the cost of making a good appearance in job interviews and professional situations. A professional appearance and attitude is critical to making a good first impression and adding credibility in the workplace.

Throughout the year, Suited for Change partners with business, government and nonprofit organizations in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area to offer a variety of programs that provide skills and important information to help women meet those challenges and surmount those barriers: to find jobs, keep them, and advance professionally. Most programs require advance registration. Their services are available at no charge and by referral only to women who have completed job readiness programs and are seeking employment.

The Professional and Lifeskills Development (PLD) Series is offered throughout the year. The PLD seminar series is designed to help women acquire the skills they need to secure and maintain professional employment and to foster personal growth. The series consists of six to seven sessions, and the topics include interview techniques, resume writing, workplace ethics, professional image, and etiquette. Seminars are limited in size to allow for personalized attention, which means that participants can actively participate and interact with trainers and each other. PLD seminars are offered at no charge and are open to all current and former Suited for Change clients.

Suited for Change also partners with business, government and nonprofit organizations in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia who host Career Days for their clients.

Clothing donations are by appointment only. All donations of professional attire and accessories must be interview-ready, meaning they can immediately be worn on a job interview when donated. Donations must be in excellent condition, in current style, in current season, clean, and on hangers.

1010 Vermont Avenue, Suite 900, Washington, DC 20005

To contact Suited for Change, call 202-293-0351 or visit www.suited for change.org.