United Bank Supports Dress for Success Western Massachusetts

WEST SPRINGFIELD — United Bank donated $5,000 to support the mission of Dress for Success to help women gain economic independence. The contribution will be used to fund the Foot in the Door program, a workforce-readiness program provided by Dress for Success Western Massachusetts.

Foot in the Door is a 14-week training program in which participants receive training modules consisting of career pathway and exploration, workplace readiness, employability preparation, and financial literacy. This curriculum is delivered by Springfield Technical Community College, and was created to address workforce needs and promote strategic economic development in the region.

Dress for Success removes typical barriers by providing transportation and daycare, which in many cases prohibit women from participating. When the women complete the course, they are provided a national workforce-readiness certificate and guaranteed an interview, and a suit to wear to the interview, at key local employers Baystate Health, Smith & Wesson, Columbia Gas, MGM Springfield, and United Personnel.

“It’s because of community partners like United Bank we are able to offer these essential programs for our clients,” said Dawn Creighton, board president of Dress for Success Western Massachusetts. “Workforce and skills gaps are growing challenges to employers. Programs such as Foot In the Door help break down barriers of employment.”