LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — For veterans, transitioning and reintegrating into civilian life can come with big and small challenges. Something as simple as a new interview suit can have so much power and it’s that power Easy Day Foundation is harnessing to help.
The newly launched non-profit has a big goal, providing grants to other organizations that support veteran initiatives.
Ela Revekko, the executive director of Easy Day Foundation said, “UNLV is one of our partners. They provide resume review, interview preparation, and networking opportunities. So, the goal with this campaign was to get these veteran students their suits, but also get them all the other components to get them ready.” She added, “While we do provide grants, we’re also trying to impact veterans in our local community as well.”
In early October, 25 UNLV veterans received new interview suits courtesy of a donation to the charity.
Ardi Najmabadi, the owner of Vasari in Tivoli Village dressed many of the women. As each entered his shop, he welcomed them.
“Hi, welcome to Vasari. It’s such a pleasure meeting you and I am so honored that I can dress you,” he said as he handed a suit to Jacelynmarie Achiu. “I picked the perfect black suit for you.”
Najmabadi has owned the boutique for 14 years.
“They are giving their lives for us, so why can’t I give them something to enhance their career?”
Achiu, who goes by Jace, said she felt like Cinderella, “I grew up shopping Goodwill, Ross, Savers. Always a discount rack.” She added, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me.” Jace spent 10 years in the army and is now working toward a degree in social work. She said, “I want to help multiple people at once.”
Another veteran, Megan Biggers, spent seven years in the Air Force as a medic. Now she’s a full-time student and getting ready to start nursing school. She said a suit would go a long way.
“They say, you know, dress for the job you want, not the job you have,” she said. “It means a lot more than we could probably explain.”
Easy Day Foundation focuses on three key needs of veterans, mental health and wellness, workforce readiness, and family support services. To learn more visit this link.
