Wardrobe for Opportunity

2010 Results

WFO has had a tremendous impact in the community over our sixteen-year history, helping nearly 20,000 low-income individuals find employment and hundreds to keep their jobs and build careers. We are proud to share our 2010 results:

WFO's Professional Image Program includes image workshops, professional clothing and professional image coaching. After taking advantage of our services, clients gain a more positive sense of self and become confident applicants and successful employees. Within 60 days of their interview wardrobe appointment, over 60% of the 2,000 jobseekers we served in 2010 secured an interview and 45% became employed. For those returning for working wardrobes, over 95% maintained employment after the first 90 days.

Corporate-sponsored interview workshops give our clients the chance to network directly with potential employers and provide clients with the opportunity to practice interviewing with up to four different professionals who offer constructive feedback. We hosted over 24 interview workshops last year, preparing over 150 clients for success.

Pathways helps clients move beyond their first position. Clients graduate having learned to strengthen their communication and conflict-resolution skills and create specific action plans to help them to lay a foundation for a successful future. In 2010, we served 178 individuals through our Pathways course. Six months after graduating from Pathways, 82% of graduates retained employment and the average annual salary increased 45%, from $13,994 to $20,253.  26% of graduates reported earning a raise, 11% reported receiving a promotion and 58% were given more responsibilities at work. 

Success Series provides participants with critical leadership skills and knowledge in an empowering environment. Incorporating classroom training, one-on-one coaching and mentoring, participants gain the self-confidence and career-building tools needed to achieve economic self-sufficiency. WFO served 61 individuals through Success Series in 2010. Six months after graduation, 97% of graduates retained employment and the average annual salary for Success Series participants increased by 9% from $26,633 to $28,955. 98% of participants reported a high rate of job satisfaction and job-sufficiency. 72% of graduates had access to health benefits, over 95% had savings accounts and 86% had made progress towards their career goals.

WFO’s Alumni Program connects graduates with each other and the resources they need to continue to advance their careers. Over 20% of our 2010 career advancement graduates took advantage of our alumni program through Weekly Success Circles, financial literacy training, affordable career coaching and quarterly events.