Like many homeless people in America, Derek Forter’s story is not one of crime or bad choices. Instead, he was a casualty of the economic recession.

"One day my company laid off half its employees. Soon I was behind on my rent, and before I knew it I’d lost my apartment.”

Imagem: https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/

To make matters worse, Derek could not secure employment and thinks he knows why.

“I would show up in my cleanest pants and shirt, but I knew I didn’t represent myself well – the other applicants all looked so much more professional. It really affected my self-esteem.”

Luckily, through a local agency, Derek got in touch with Look the Part, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping homeless people join the workforce. Their motto: Look the part.

“They were phenomenal, giving me a complete makeover inside and out. Not only did they get me a haircut too. Then, they helped with my resume, and we practiced mock interviews. I was more confident than ever, and I nailed my next interview. I’ve been working ever since, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

Unfortunately, the demand for services like those provided by Look the Part far outweighs their current capabilities. And even though there are other similar organizations, like JobReady and First Impressions, there are many people still struggling to find employment.

In: American Inside Out Evolution. Student’s book Advanced B. KAY, Sue et all. Macmillan Publishers, São Paulo: 2028. Adaptado