The Foundation for Fresno Unified Students is holding its third annual Suit Drive to help students, whether they are headed for college or career, dress for success.

When attending a professional event or job interview, “looking the part” instills much-needed confidence in those entering the work world. But not everyone has the funds for the wardrobe.

“I think we all know the power of feeling confident,” said Wendy McCulley, Fresno Unified’s chief of engagement and external partnerships.

The Suit Drive works to provide all Fresno Unified students with professional attire — for all events. Last year, a student came in search of a jacket for his “Alice in Wonderland”-themed prom and found the perfect fit, said Dr. Andrew Scherrer, the foundation’s executive officer.

“They need to worry about everything from grades to sometimes food scarcity and even just getting through the next day. One thing they shouldn’t have to worry about is whether their community believes in them,” Scherrer said, “And at the end of the day, if we can equip our students to look their best, they will feel their best.”

The number of items students will be allowed to take home depends on the amount donated. Last time the limit was 20. Scherrer hopes that number will be even higher this time around.

In its first year, the event gathered 2,000 items and 5,000 in its second. Now, the organization is aiming to amass 7,000 items for students to choose from.

How You Can Help

The foundation is asking the community to donate “anything that would help a student on their journey to college and career readiness.” This includes not only suits, but also dress shirts, skirts, slacks, pumps, ties, and more. Donations will be accepted from Monday through Feb. 21.

“You don’t have to clean your whole closet. … You can find that blazer that doesn’t fit or that pair of shoes that you only wore a few times. Drop them off at one of our four locations and really make a difference in a student’s life,” Scherrer said.

McCulley told GV Wire how even those outside of the community are helping: “My father actually saw this advertised on Facebook. … He sent a box of ties from Memphis, because he knows the power of feeling good when you walk into a place and feeling like you fit.”

The Foundation for Fresno Unified Students will run a free shopping event, Suited for Success, on April 8 with the collected donations — including stylists to help students curate outfits. The event will take place at Hoover High School from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. with food trucks and a DJ in attendance.

There’s no need to fret if that date or time doesn’t work for you. All remaining clothing will be divided, based on what principals are requesting, and delivered to schools. The items will be kept in school clothing closets, where students can easily access them.

Aisha Ajynes, a former Hoover High School student and current intern at The Foundation, shared how professional clothing helped her enter the work world: “Presentation matters a lot, especially when trying to get a job. When you have those professional pieces, people see you a little bit differently, you know. Their perspective changes.”

Ajynes, seeing the impact of this event firsthand, said her younger siblings will be in attendance.

“I think the Suit Drive is a great thing for students, especially those who may not be able to afford attire,” she said.

These donations allow students to present themselves in a way that reflects their hard work and potential, regardless of financial situation.

Linda Laettner, the foundation’s executive officer, described students leaving past drives with arms full of clothing, animatedly talking about wearing the items at upcoming professional events.

Where to Donate

Drop items off at any of the donation centers, located throughout the city, during their normal working hours:

Neighborhood Thrift — Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

J. Crew — Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Anthropologie – Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Blkmktplc (Black Marketplace Vintage Boutique) — Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.- 6 p.m.

If you don’t have items to donate, you can always help through providing funding to The Foundation here. Those wishing to sponsor the event can find out more here.