Why I've teamed up the 'Suited to Success' charity
I'm so lucky to have a social media platform to share, inspire and raise awareness for amazing causes, that when I heard about Suited to Success I knew I wanted to sign on and be the official ambassador . It's no secret how passionate I am about getting more women into the workforce. This coupled with passion of corporate fashion and making professional and impactful impressions in the workplace, meant I found the perfect charity to promote and work alongside.
The team is kicking goals, named as finalists in 2017 and again this year, 2018 for a Telstra Business Award - Queensland Social Change Maker Category. If you haven't already heard about Suited to Success, I'll share a little bit more about this amazing charity organisation and what they've achieved so far and how they continue to make a positive impact.
How the community benefits
The team collects donations of suits and other office appropriate attire from corporate firms and individuals, to stock the styling boutique held in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. Clients who have faced unemployment or difficult circumstances can come into the boutique for a free personalised styling session and receive an outfit suitable to wear to a job interview or employment (available to both men and women)
There is a dedicated employment job assistance program for youth aged 15-24 years old. The sessions cover:
Personal achievement plan
Job preparation and interview techniques
Self-esteem
Stress-management/Self-care
Effective Communication
Using Technology
Getting ready for work; and
Networking
A similar program is open to men and women of any age and background. Unlike other employment programs, the support is tailored and can range from one to twelve sessions based on the needs of the individual, with follow up support is provided for up to 12 months. To ensure ongoing success for the individual, the program also provides the opportunity for people to connect with corporate supporters or industry networks for industry orientation and mentoring opportunities.
There is also a Career Hub program is for people looking to secure long lasting employment. The program provides general career advice and support to develop successful job applications, while you gain practical skills, like resume writing and interview skills.
How can you get involved
The team needs funds and donations to keep the boutique and program alive. You can get involved in a number of ways:
Buy or Donate non work specific clothing - any donations that are not appropriate work attire are sold by volunteers at the Fortitude Valley 'Suited to Success' Retail Shop
Buy or Donate designer fashion at our annual "Bubbles & Beauties" fashion event (more below)
Donate your corporate wardrobe - there are donation collection points at Toowong Shopping Centre and the Myer Centre
Make a cash donation or a recurring cash commitment - to fund employment and career workshops
Volunteer your time at the retail store or styling boutiques; or
Sponsor an event.
The last Bubbles and Beauties event at Brisbane City hall was a huge success, outselling Brisbane Fashion Month. This year the fashion parade was co-ordinated by social media influencers who styled, promoted and modeled, which led to raising a record amount from tickets and sales of donated designer fashion. The amazing community support meant that the only cost for the event was catering, and we can't thank the following sponsors enough for such amazing support.
The social impact in numbers
xo Emily
