Student’s efforts to be praised

Published 11:43 am Friday, March 28, 2014

The old saying goes, “Dress for the job you want. Not the job you have.”

But what if you are unemployed and have been for some time. Maybe you can’t afford to buy brand new outfits or shoes to wear to an interview.

Is it fair that those who can’t afford the nicest brands or newest styles might be passed over during a selection process, simply because putting food on their tables is more important than being fashion-forward.

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That’s where Dress for Success River Cities comes in.

The nonprofit based in Huntington, W.Va., provides professional attire and career development tools to women who want to re-enter the workforce and who are truly in need of a helping hand.

Recently, Ashley Poff, a senior at Ohio University Southern, decided to help further the mission of Dress for Success by organizing a clothing drive, called “Ladies Clothing Drive for the 9 to 5.”

That clothing drive will conclude with a fashion show on April 8 at the OUS Proctorville Center. Models at the fashion show will wear the donated items.

This project is a prime example of one of the many selfless things people are doing for others in the county. Although Dress for Success is based in Huntington, the organization does serve the entire Tri-State, including Lawrence County.

Those articles of clothing, shoes and accessories that were collected could go a long way for many women in our area who are struggling to get back to work.

Sometimes, a new outfit can give someone the confidence they need to make a good first impression.

Kudos to Poff and all those who donated clothing. We encourage everyone to attend the fashion show to see just how big a difference this effort will make.