Organization to help local women find jobs

Finding a good job in this economy can be tough right now, and that is why a local nonprofit organization is helping women find one.

The nonprofit Catholic Charities of Idaho is holding free workshops for interview and resume tips. They’re also collecting used professional clothing for women so they can dress the part.

“I don’t know if I would look at it as giving back, as I would filling a need,” said Jason Batalden, Regional Director of Catholic Charities of Idaho.

According to the Corporation for Enterprise Development, 27 percent of the jobs in the gem state are low-wage jobs and only 25 percent of adults have a college degree.

“There is some limitation about women and the types of jobs they can get in Idaho,” said Batalden.

“What we really want to do is target that woman who is working a low-income, low-wage job who would like to find better employment,” he said.
Catholic Charities is teaming up with La Quinta Inn & Suites, Candlewood Suites and Stevens-Henager college to help the cause. Collection boxes are set up inside these businesses where you can drop off used professional clothing. Women will then be able to choose an interview outfit from the options provided.

If you can’t make it to a drop off location, you can drive through and donate this Saturday at Candlewood Suites.

“We have been involved in the community and been able to use our drive-through out front. easy access, easy in,” said Patti Thomas, director of sales at Candlewood Suites.

“We need more accessories, we need more clothes and shoes,” said Thomas.

The drive through donation event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Candlewood Suites. You can still donate clothing through Oct. 4 at Candlewood Suites, Catholic Charities of Idaho, LaQuinta Inn and Stevens-Henager college.

The free workshops will be at the college on Oct. 4. If you would like to register call the college at 208-522-0887.