Leaders from nonprofit Working Wardrobes presented to the Orange County Board of Education Aug. 6, describing a multifaceted employment-assistance program the group runs across Orange County.
Speakers Bonnie Palmisch (CEO) and board member Susie Betts told trustees Working Wardrobes provides career coaching, mock interviews, soft-skill workshops, technical certifications and a signature “wardrobe” experience that supplies interview clothing at no cost. Speakers said the organization also operates retail outlets that help fund free services and that, beyond clothing, roughly 85% of their work focuses on “inner transformation” — coaching and skills that support long-term employment.
Presenters described client populations including veterans, people experiencing homelessness, justice-involved individuals and older adults, and they said the organization processes roughly 500,000 donated pieces annually and has served more than 135,000 Orange County residents since 1990. Working Wardrobes invited trustees, OCDE staff and community members to volunteer at events, host clothing drives and register as career guides to mentor clients seeking industry-specific guidance.
Board members thanked the presenters and asked for practical details about drop‑off hours and volunteered to publicize upcoming events. Working Wardrobes said donation hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., and invited board members to visit monthly tours and a Nov. event celebrating the organization’s founder and a full-day Power Up for Success event for veterans.