Cire Services has boosted support that is easily accessible for women in the Upper Yarra and surrounding areas with the opening of its First Impressions Clothing Exchange (FICE) in Yarra Junction.
Located at Cire’s Community Hub, FICE aims to empower women needing a bit of a hand up as they work towards achieving their personal and employment goals. The program benefits families and local communities as well as the participants.
FICE presents as a retail outlet with hands-on training but it offers much more through mentoring and pathways to personal development, study and employment, and a trusted support network.
Yarra Junction FICE (YJ FICE) is based on an established program at Mooroolbark which has gone from strength to strength since it was launched in 2019. Mooroolbark’s success has clearly demonstrated the need for such a holistic approach to assist women and also provided invaluable virtual support and connection during the difficult COVID lockdowns.
In addition to its innovative and flexible program of empowerment, YJ FICE offers quality and affordable women’s clothing suitable for everyday wear, interviews, or more formal occasions.
FICE Coordinator Renee Cooke said the program’s aim is to reconnect women with the community and help provide them with financial security.
“Our focus is on building pathways that are tailored to individual needs like future independence and goal setting, identifying and acquiring skills that are transferable between employment sectors, interview preparation and job readiness, and empowerment and confidence building.
FICE is thrilled to have a permanent presence in the Upper Yarra where it can be difficult to access services easily.
“We have been generously welcomed with donations being dropped off even before we officially opened.” Renee said.
“People frequently peep through our window to see our gorgeous range of clothing and accessories. Comments like, ‘I can’t believe how many nice things you have”’, ‘Beautiful quality”, and ‘Are these really second hand?’ clearly show appreciation for the wonderful items so generously donated by the community.”
Integral to FICE opening its doors was a wonderful and very generous donation of shop fittings, mannequins, clothing and accessories from former shop owner Penny Gravias from Dekoda boutique in Eltham. After many successful years in retail Penny decided it was time to close the doors of her women’s clothing boutique. Fortunately, she had heard about FICE through her cousin and Cire’s Chief Executive Officer, Gus Seremetis. The donation helped YJ FICE get off the ground and also reduced what could have otherwise gone into landfill.
“The timing was spot on and aligns perfectly with FICE’s ethos of recycling fashion and sustainability.” Renee added.
It’s only early days but YJ FICE is already creating much interest among potential participants and thriving as an inviting place to shop, browse, pick up a bargain, have a friendly chat with staff and volunteers and also learn more about the Community Hub and other Cire services throughout the region.
One of the largest not-for-profits in the Yarra ranges, Cire is unique to the region. Employing approximately 220 people across multiple sites, it helps meet local needs through Cire Community Hubs; Cire Training, an award-winning Registered Training Organisation; Cire Early Learning, and Cire Community School.
YJ FICE is open Monday to Friday from 9 to 5pm, simply enter through the pink door.
Work experience and volunteer opportunities are available at both FICE locations at Yarra Junction and Mooroolbark
Donations of good quality women’s clothing accepted at FICE Yarra Junction, and Mooroolbark, Chirnside Park Community Hub and Cire’s Lilydale office. Please leave donations during office hours so Cire can thank you personally.
