STRIVE - New Haven has a most worthy job to do

Last week, this column attempted to give an overview of the current fall fashion scene ... or to my way of thinking, the fall fashion scream (as in you have to be kidding me!)

This week, I thought readers might like to know about a group of people rarely, if ever, written about by the fashion pundits: those individuals who want to find work, but lack the necessary skills and the appropriate clothes for job hunting and the interview.

An exceptional nonprofit group called STRIVE-New Haven, Inc. an affiliate of STRIVE-New York, with a network of 17 others, in cities here and overseas, is dedicated to helping these difficult-to-employ, men and women.

A free, three-week employability skills training workshop focuses on resume preparation, interview techniques and confidence building to prepare students to find and hold a job. Graduates of the program are entitled to lifetime job-placement assistance, Since its inception 10 years ago, more than 1,200 New Haven area residents have graduated with a 70 percent job retention rate after two years; representing money saved on food stamps, welfare and other entitlement programs.

The offices of STRIVE are also the home of the New Haven Career Gear, which provides men and women with the proper business attire. Their motto is, “A suit and a second chance.” The right clothes inspire confidence, and the staff will help job-seekers pick out a suitable outfit.

Originally, only men’s clothing was available, but graduates of the New Haven Leadership Center, a program developed by the New Haven Chamber of Commerce, helped to establish a women’s clothing bank.

Another source for women’s business clothing is the nonprofit Dress for Success with outlets in Hartford and Fairfield. This program offers women, often single mothers, job counseling as well as wardrobe and makeup advice. When a woman receives a job offer, she may choose five additional outfits to help her launch her new career.

STRIVE stands for Support and Training Results in Valuable Employees. Recently, STRIVE and the Veterans Administration have cooperated and designed a special course for out-of-work veterans who may be experiencing difficulty returning to civilian life. Listening to the touching testimonials on their Web site of former participants helped by STRIVE speaks volumes about the important work this small organization is accomplishing. They deserve our donations of money and clothes. Donations of clean business-appropriate attire in good condition may be dropped off at 746 Chapel St., Suite 301, in New Haven, or call 203-777-1720. And if, after giving away some clothes, you want to restock your wardrobe with stunning but sensible fashions while also donating to a good cause, the Madison Women’s Club is having a fashion show at the Pine Orchard Club on Oct. 17. Call Liz Duffy at 203-245-5715 for tickets or information.

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