How Your Gently Worn Suit Can Change Someone's Life

The Annual Men’s Wearhouse National Suit Drive gives at-risk men the confidence needed to re-enter the workforce. Through the collection of gently worn professional attire, the program gives a large number of men, who may not have had the opportunity otherwise, a chance to transform their lives. The donations benefit a network of over180 local non-profit partners that aid in offering supportive programs, such as training and employment services, helping the men to become self-sufficient. Vernon Robinson is one of these men.

In 2013, San Francisco Bay area-based non-profit, Wardrobe for Opportunity chose Mr. Robinson as their Client of the Year, but his situation seemed much bleaker just a few years earlier. He said that “Coming out of prison, not having really any particular, specific skill set—but, I had an idea and I had a desire. I had two passions in my life: One was clothing my body handsomely. The other was clothing my mind even more handsomely.” Wardrobe for Opportunity provided Mr. Robinson with support, counseling, and the professional attire necessary to return to the job market.

There is an underserved need for supportive programs that provide training and employment services to jobless men. Without them, many transitioning individuals will not have the necessary resources to find gainful employment and sustained financial independence. Suits donated at a Men’s Wearhouse location are distributed to partnering non-profits and to men like Mr. Robinson so that those in need can look and feel confident as they reenter the workforce. In addition to addressing wardrobe needs, affiliated non-profits offer their clients resume services, career counseling, networking and image workshops with professional stylists. This approach, in conjunction with the clothing donations, helps foster a new sense of self-assuredness in the individual and stronger bonds within the community.

For USAF veteran Christopher Bellegia, the support of Southern California-based organization, Working Wardrobes was life changing, rescuing him from what he calls, “A dark time.” Mr. Bellegia was unemployed and facing homelessness after being hit by a car in civilian life, which exacerbated his PTSD and depression. But, things changed when he became involved with the program. “I was provided business clothing for an interview, new shoes…and personalized veteran counseling…As a direct result of Working Wardrobes’ Vet Net program and the support of all the staff, I am now gainfully employed...I needed to be supported, trained and led down a path to be the man and proud veteran I am today.”

From now until July 31st, donate a suit or other types of gently worn professional attire at a participating Men’s Wearhouse location and help change a life. As a thank you, you’ll receive 50% off your next purchase. Help spread the word by sharing the Men’s Wearhouse #giveasuit post on Facebook and Twitter and they will donate $1 for every share, with the hope of donating a full $25,000.

According to Mr. Robinson, the clothes you donate will be more than just a means to an end. He tells the men he mentors, “You see that gleam in your eye? …When you walk in that doorway, for that job… that’s what you walk with. Look at that mirror, that’s what they’re gonna see.”