Many of our guests enter the program with wardrobe issues. It is extremely important to ensure that guests are "interview ready" as soon as possible to take maximum advantage of the 30-day window of opportunity to land that all important job. Hygiene and wardrobe are at the top of the list of job search priorities.
SHIP is blessed to have a solid relationship with Working Wardrobes in Fountain Valley. The Career Services Center at Working Wardrobes provides wardrobing and personal grooming services and a Job Seeker's Center to over 2,000 men, women and at risk teens - every year. Much like SHIP, Working Wardrobes is ready to help get adults in crisis back to work - with their dignity and self-esteem intact.
The process is quite simple:
1) Call Working Wardrobes to make an appointment for your guest. Unfortunately the schedule is limited to weekdays, but there is flexibility with early morning or late afternoon appointments. Phone: (714) 210-2460. Let them know that you are with SHIP and would like to schedule an appointment to fit your guest. Specify which program (see details of the two programs below).
2) Fax the form with client information filled out by your guest. Forms are available from Bill Thacker, or you can print a form from this web site (click on "Client Invitation Form" below). Fax Number: (714) 434-2870.
3) Accompany your guest to the Working Wardrobes Career Services Center at the scheduled time. Allow about one to two hours for fitting and fashion assistance. You may go through this process with your guest. A personal shopper will accompany you to ensure that your guest leaves with coordinated outfits that fit well and maximize his or her number of ensembles. The personal shoppers are from the fashion industry, and take care and time to make your guest feel comfortable.
4) It is best to pay with cash. In most cases you will be reimbursed by the guest when his or her savings will allow. In other specific cases you may be reimbursed from the SHIP general fund.
Program Options:
A. $25 package - Most guests fit this program. The package includes a complete outfit including shoes, purse and jewelry for women (does not include shoes for men).
B. $50 package - Guests interviewing for office positions will benefit from this program. The package includes: For men, one suit, three dress shirts, two pants, two neck ties, one belt, and one pair of shoes. For women, one suit, three blouses, one dress, one skirt, one pant, shoes, purse, and jewelry.
A combination of new and used clothing is offered in the men's department. MEN'S WEARHOUSE donates suits, shirts, ties, pants, shoes, and belts offering a huge selection of styles and colors.
