December’s Coachella Valley Spotlight Recipient Is Local Non-Profit Organization Desert Best Friend’sloset.
The organization helps clients succeed while searching for employment. Anyone in need receives a variety of professional clothing, from men’s and women’s clothing to shoes and jewelry.
In 2008, Desert Best FrFriend’sloset surveyed human resources representatives in the Coachella Valley and found that inappropriately dressed job applicants were a problem in the community. They found that 60% of those surveyed said they judge appearance first, and 85% admitted they are hesitant to hire someone who doesn’t dress professionally. As a result, DBFC was created to fill an unmet community need.
The DBFC Interview Attire Program provides appropriate interview attire and image consultation at no cost to job seekers who do not have the means to purchase such attire.
However, DBFC goes one step further with its Bridge to Employment Program – providing focused, one-on-one training on resume and interview skills in a small group of no more than five people.
The nonprofit organization said it serves about 750 clients each year.
DBFC plans to use the $25,000 Coachella Valley Spotlight grant to further the inclusion of Justice Involved Individuals to participate in its Interview Dress and Bridge to Employment Programs. Desert Best FrFriend’sloset will help parolees re-enter the workforce by providing workshops on job search preparation, job development, placement and interview clothing.
