TWO decades of experience working in the corporate sector, followed by her current employment in the retail sector made volunteering with Fitted for Work a “perfect fit” for Morwell’s Sharon Waller.
The fashionable volunteer has been with the not-for-profit organisation since it opened its doors in Morwell in March last year.
“I love being creative and enjoy fashion, and I also wanted to do something that made a difference to the life of other women,” Sharon said.
“I had some time on my hands. When I saw a call for volunteers advertised in The Express, I thought ‘that fits’.”
Part of the appeal for Sharon was the organisation was “run by women for women”.
She believes since she began volunteering, she has helped at least 50 women get “fitted out for work”.
“When they first come into the boutique, the women are usually a bit nervous, but they are surprised (by what they see),” she said.
“After some administrative things, I talk to them to determine their needs and what type of employment they are going for, and then it’s dressing up time.”
As a volunteer, Sharon helps clients pick outfits which would be suitable for job interviews, and provided them help with accessorising and personal grooming.
After the session, Sharon said there was usually a visible difference in the clients’ demeanour.
“It helps their self-esteem and builds their confidence. They get to keep their outfits, and it doesn’t cost them anything,” she said.
To be a volunteer in the boutique, which is open two days a week on Mondays and Wednesdays, Sharon said a person should be able to communicate well, be creative and stylish and enjoy helping.
“But we also need help with sorting and steaming the clothes, and administrative work; there’s a lot more to (volunteering here),” she said.
