Jan Allen
Wardrobe for Opportunity Client

Upon being released from federal prison, Jan Allen felt anxious and insecure at the thought of finding employment. He worried about how he would address his criminal background and the gaps in his resume when speaking with potential employers. To make matters worse, Jan only owned a few items of clothing and knew that his tennis shoes and jeans would not help him make the right first impression.

Referred to WFO through the Associated Community Action Program, Jan couldn't believe the attention his stylist paid to his clothing wants and needs. Jan left feeling prepared to interview for any job he wanted.

"They gave me tips on how to properly wear and match my clothes so that I would be able to get the most from each outfit. The experience really gave me an extra confidence boost," he says.

Armed with a new attitude and a beautiful suit, Jan aced his interview and was offered a position as a Public Park Maintenance Attendant for the City of Oakland. There, Jan knows he is recognized for his merit, not his past, and he takes great pride in helping the community by improving the local athletic fields.

"WFO came into my life at the right time,” he says. “It was a blessing in disguise."

John Moore
Wardrobe for Opportunity Client

Growing up without a father figure, John Moore was forced to become the head of the house at a very young age. With little guidance or support in his life, John turned to drugs as a teen and battled addiction for the next 35 years of his life.

Unable to secure employment and drained of financial resources, he found himself on the streets. When he heard the news that his mother had passed away, John was faced with a hard reality: He needed to make some changes in his life. Through the Options Recovery Center, John was referred to WFO.

"I came for a suit," John says, "but I left with so much more."

Unsure of what to expect at his styling appointment, he was amazed by his own reflection after putting on a crisp black suit. John wore his new attire to an interview at St. Vincent De Paul where the clothing gave him a newfound sense of self-esteem and a feeling of belonging. John landed a job there as a warehouseman and is continuing his education at the East Bay Trucking Academy in order to obtain his Class A trucking license.

Motivated to continue achieving, John enrolled in Pathways, WFO's six-week career development program, in order to further develop his professional skills. John advanced to the Success Series program in September of 2010 and has become an active member of the WFO men's alumni group. Through his involvement with WFO, John has successfully maintained steady employment and is continuing to "learn how to live all over again."