First Impressions Last A Lifetime

Many qualified prospective employees -- due to financial hardship -- do not have the resources to purchase business attire. The Career Closet, a nonprofit community service, assists individuals by providing them with free business attire for job interviews and other employment-related situations.

Having the proper business attire also often results in higher self-esteem for the recipient. In turn, this makes them better prepared for entering the workforce.

Because the Career Closet is a nonprofit program, it depends solely on donations to continue operation. All donations are tax deductible. The Eastern Arkansas Career Closets are located in West Memphis, Wynne, Marianna, Helena and Forrest City.

Career Closet Services

• Provides business clothing to customer free of charge. After completing a level of training or participating in a job-search activity, each customer is entitled to at least one complete outfit.

• Free counseling to customers about dressing for interviews and work.

• Possible referrals to other employment and job training programs and organizations.

History

Career Closets were originally established by WorkForce, Inc. in Crittenden, Cross, Lee, Phillips and St. Francis counties, where hundreds of customers have been outfitted for employment. The community involvement of many organizations and businesses has been instrumental to the program's success.

Items Needed for Career Closets

• New and Quality Used Clothing

• Men's and Women's Suits

• Dresses and Skirts

• Dress Shoes

• Dress Socks and Stockings

• Undergarments

• Personal Hygiene Items

• Belts

• Ties

• Small Earrings

• Perfume and Cologne

• Makeup

• Dry Cleaning and Laundry Services

• Financial Contributions