You know how important it is to make a good first impression, especially when looking for a job. Yet in our ever-more casual culture, many job seekers struggle to project the kind of professional image you would expect in a new employee.

At Wind River Job Corps in Riverton, Wyoming, a lot of effort is put into preparing students for the workforce, with expert technical training, effective integration of “employ-ability” skills and an ingrained work ethic. And when students prepare to interview for either work-based learning opportunities or to take the first steps on their new career path, they receive a small stipend to help them dress professionally. But few of these students have the foundation of professional attire that can get them through more than the first interview.

So the Wind River community stepped up to help.

The Wind River Job Corps and local Rotary Club have joined together in the Jackets for Jobs business attire drive. Jackets help Job Crops students as the interview for jobs, both with a professional image, and with increased confidence.

The Riverton Rotary Club launched Jackets for Jobs, a community clothing drive focused on good, clean business suit jackets and sports coats.  With community support, they are to collecting a wide variety of sizes, colors and styles of jackets for both young women and men. And along the way, they are giving local residents an avenue for thinning out their closets of business attire they no longer wear.

There are a number of ways a jacket can play an important role in helping students find their way to well-paying career fields. First, a business jacket does more than project professionalism; it builds confidence. Any attire (even jeans) can be dressed up better with a jacket. And professionally appropriate dress helps the student ensure the prospective employer that their time and energy are respected, and that the applicant is serious about success.

The drive has grown to include both Rotary groups in Riverton and Lander, 26 miles away, as well as Casper, 150 miles away, and even the local Kiwanis group. Local service, church and community groups have been encouraged to join the jacket collection efforts also. Additionally, one of the local radio networks has adopted the program and is promoting their drop off location on all four stations.

For questions or more information about the program, contact BCL Cathy Cline at cline.cathleen@jobcorps.org.