Our History
Career Gear’s story began in 1999 when Gary Field, a former director of services for the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, and David Woolard, a Broadway costume designer, realized there was a need to reach men who were underserved by existing organizations and agencies. The immediate need was something as straightforward as providing a business suit.
Today providing suits for a job interview is just the first step. We now deliver much-needed job retention and advancement coaching, helping our clients to build on their achievements and continue their upward path.
Achievements
Growth in Referrals. Career Gear accepts only clients who have been referred by an agency after the candidate has completed job training and has a job interview scheduled. Agency referrals have grown 12.2% annually since 2005, with 2,018 clients served in New York in 2009 and an additional 2,000 served through affiliate offices.
Growth in National Outreach. In addition to its New York City operations, Career Gear has partnered with affiliates across the country. We have also launched a Related Cities Program, to give smaller grassroots non-profits the chance to provide business clothing and to nurture relationships for potential future affiliation.
Growth in Program Services. We have extended the depth and scope of our long- term programs, in part through recently developed partnerships with several New York-based professionals for the development workshops. Businessmen, bankers, health care professionals, writers, and corporate executives are sharing their expertise with our clients and adding their strengths and compassion to our community.
