As a recruiter for Rose International, not only does La'Tosha Nesbit want to make a good first impression, she also wants to help others do the same.
A few weeks ago, she turned to Dreams to Reality to help her meet her goal. Located on Jefferson Street, the charitable organization helps provide the clothing, accessories, shoes and undergarments low-income women need to look professional for the workplace.
The first time Nesbit used Dreams to Reality's services, she was a mother re-entering the workforce.
"My friend told me about it, when I needed to interview for a job," she said.
Although that initial job in child care didn't call for a professional wardrobe, her new position at Rose International required she wear business-casual attire daily. As the single mother of three children, spending a large sum of money to look presentable wasn't in the cards.
And so, once again, she turned to Dreams to Reality for help.
"I didn't have a referral the second time, but they gave me a number to call and they were so gracious to be able to fit me in that same day," Nesbit said.
The agency's volunteers not only provide women with the clothes they need, they also make sure they fit well and they offer style advice.
"They were great," she said. "They helped me find things that fit my body type. They provided me a functional suit, with a blazer that I can mix and match with other outfits," she said. "Considering all the clothes, accessories and shoes I was given, I might have had to spend $500 to purchase the same amount of clothing.
"These are just things I could not afford, as a single mom."
And she said the women helped her select items that conform with her religious beliefs.
"I'm Muslim, so the clothing must be modest," she said.
In her new job, Nesbit spends her time interviewing potential job candidates. As a minority- and female-owned business, Rose International serves other companies in all 50 states. The firm helps other employers fill job openings and matches them with suitable workers.
"I'm trying to send people out on interviews, and I want them to be professional, but I didn't even have the clothes myself," she said. "Now I'm more confident, and I'm able to be a role model to them."
If you wish to donate
In order to be tax deductible, checks must be made payable to the United Way of Central Missouri and the United Way must retain the right to specifically determine who the donation will benefit.
The United Way will establish a Christmas Wish fund, and donors can give a gift "in the name of" someone specific, or a United Way partner agency.
A volunteer committee will oversee the distribution of these funds.
If you want to help fill a Christmas Wish, mail checks to United Way of Central Missouri, 205 Alameda Drive, Jefferson City Missouri 65109. "News Tribune Christmas Wish Fund" should be noted on the memo line of the check.
Questions may be directed to Ann Bax, President of United Way of Central Missouri, 636-4100, or [email protected].