The opening of the Lake Erie College Career Closet will feature a dedication ceremony at 11:30 a.m. March 31 on the Painesville campus.
Launched by members of Leadership Lake County, the Career Closet provides free professional clothing for Lake Erie students, helping them prepare for interviews, presentations, internships, and professional meetings, according to a news release. The initiative is designed to ensure that every student, regardless of their financial means, has access to professional attire that allows them to present themselves with confidence as they enter the workforce.
The Career Closet will offer a range of professional clothing items available at no cost to students. Organizers say the program addresses a common barrier for college students preparing for career opportunities by providing access to appropriate professional attire when it is needed most.
“Leadership Lake County is proud to be part of this project through the efforts of members of our 2026 Signature class,” CEO Tricia Johnston stated in the release. “Community service is an integral part of all our programs and helping empower future leaders as they embark on careers is an exciting way for us to serve.”
Community members are invited to support the initiative through donations. The program is currently seeking 250 to 400 plastic shirt hangers to help organize its growing inventory. Additionally, there is a critical need for men’s professional attire, including polo shirts, button-down shirts, pants, belts, and sport coats in sizes XS through XXL, according to the release.
“Career readiness is about more than skills and knowledge, it’s also about confidence,” Executive Director of Career Services and Workforce Development Amy Sabath stated in the release. “The Career Closet helps remove a barrier many students face, ensuring they can walk into any opportunity feeling prepared and empowered.
“This is a powerful example of how community collaboration can directly impact student success.”