Fitted For Work

[Amanda Ritter]

Fitted for work raises funds and collects second hand clothing to train women in work and interview skills and fit them out in work attire so they can attend a job interview. It is a fantastic cause and my students got behind it in a big way. This is the script from the launch night for their new Frankston store:
Fitted for Work Toorak College Fashion Parade Script
The Year 11 Business management class ran some small business ventures at half year for one of their major projects. Each student group was asked to come up with a business idea or design and manufacture a product. The girls then planned and ran their stalls at school over two lunchtimes. In total they raised over $1000, however, despite much deliberation the students just couldn’t come to an agreement on how to allocate their monies. All causes were worthy, however, none seemed quite right, until now that is. Because Fitted for Work supports women in a business context, the cause really resonated with the students who all agreed that their hard won profits should come this way.
I gave $10 to 100 staff and students for them to come up with the best outfit they could for a lady to attend a job interview. The task was set for over the holidays and most participants willingly took on the challenge. Girls shopped in groups and with their Mums at thrift shops and raided all the wardrobes in the house for their outfits. Some brought in two matching pieces, some donated an outfit with full accessories including shoes, jewellery and stockings, some had their items dry cleaned and delivered them in suit covers, many, (especially staff), donated garbage bags full of quality clothes and some handed in the donation AND returned the $10. The result of this idea was to spread the word throughout the school community about Fitted for Work, to get people thinking about what they could be doing and to instigate some useful action on the part of the students.

To share with you the results of some of the student efforts we have some first time models here tonight showing off just what can be done on a shoestring budget with their work outfits they will be donating:

First we have Lauren – Lauren is wearing a front zip white with black striped detail shirt she found at Savers for $3, or at Toorak we know it as Saviours, black pants and sensible black flatties perfect for power walking to get to that job interview on time. Thankyou Lauren.

Next we have Stephanie – From our donated clothes pool, Stephanie has selected a vintage 70s style swoosh skirt paired with a nature loving peace T under a crinkled chocolate jacket which brings her into the naughties. With matching natural leather heels and models own hand made tights, she keeps a sense of her own personal identity but she’s also ready to work. Thankyou Stephanie.

Here’s Sarah – Sarah is in Year 7 and she is also on our School Representative Council so she is an old hand at helping others out. Sarah is wearing a neat white shirt with a retro style blue crochet cardi and her own office ready skirt and shoes. From the SRC Sarah is TOP. Great Job Sarah.

Next we have Vanessa – Vanessa was the first one to volunteer her time for tonight and although she says she is not used to being the centre of attention, especially as a model, she wanted to help this cause. Vanessa wears a black skirt with matching black leather pumps, and an eye catching electric blue and black patterned translucent top. A Powerhouse in the boardroom, move over Jenifer Hawkins. Thanks Vanessa.

Following on we have Jessica – Jessica is in Year 10 and she joins in with a feminine pink skirt paired with a contrasting white top. Her jacket and shoes are neat and tidy ready for a day in the office. It’s a little bit Red Cross and a little bit red hot. Absolutely Fabulous darling.

And here comes Anabel in her grey suit pants with a perky retro purple silk top peeking from behind her matching blazer. All would agree she is the next apprentice in waiting but on a St Vinnie’s budget. Is she Australia’s next top model – I think she’s a contender! Ace Annabel. Thanks.

Here’s smiley Arlie. Arlie beats the Salvation Army drum in uniform neat grey pencil skirt, grey cashmere tops with white lace insert, brown jacket and matching earthy shoes. Put your hands together and her designer Salvo chic.

Last but not least we have Georgie – fabulous as ever in her corporate black pin striped business suit – one of two three piece suits donated by our Grade 5 teacher. She’s wearing a white shirt contrasting with her killer black heeled pumps – possible nicked form her Mother’s wardrobe. She’s the last on our list but she’s the top end of Collins Street.

And that concludes our fashion frenzy. Let’s show the girls our appreciation of their courage and talent at getting a designer without the debt. Hopefully other less fortunate ladies will now benefit from the Toorak Community’s hard work. All these clothes and more will be donated to Fitted for Work. Good Night.

It was a great night - despite some technical hitches (as in no music for the fashion parade! The audience had to clap!!) Tracey Bartram was hilarious as MC, Joan Ciastkowski, the president of the organisation, was compelling in her passionate speech and the girls got their pictures in the paper. 15 garbage bags of clothes were delivered this week and all have been stunned at the huge effort made by the Toorak College community.

[Jenny Luca]

Amanda, You do such good work. I know how hard you work and how you do everything you can to make our students look outwards instead of inwards. You are an inspiration. : )

[Angela]

What a FANTASTIC program and cause. We have something similar in our area, and I wasn't even aware of its existence until a few years ago. The fact that you have your students involved not only serves this group..it also builds awareness with your kids so they can spread the word and send those who might need their help in that direction. I can only imagine how hesitant some women might be to take job opportunity risks because they lack proper outfitting or interview skills. What a great way to build confidence and get great people into the work force too. Thanks for sharing this inspiring project!