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Our Story
Our Story
Career Closet was founded on a simple, yet powerful belief: everyone deserves the confidence and security of having a job. From Monte Vista High School in Danville, our founders — Ruhikaa, Roma, Sonya, and Venya — saw a direct need in our community: talented individuals could secure interviews but lacked the professional attire to make a strong first impression. What began as long calls of brainstorming and in-depth planning has since grown into a dedicated service, providing not just clothing, but a foundation of self-assurance for those taking a critical step towards financial independence.
Roma and Ruhikaa working on keeping inventory for clothing donations
Venya and Sonya folding and organizing clothing donations
Where we are today
Where we are today
From our humble beginnings, we have grown into a valued community partner, actively extending our reach to support local organizations. Under Hope Avenue, our parent organization, we have been able to grow over the past two years. To date, we have donated professional attire to empower members of Love Never Fails and BOSS (Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency), helping them step confidently into their futures. We also participated in Love Never Fails' Summer Fun Extravaganza, where we raffled off five complete outfits to directly connect with and uplift our community.
These steps mark only the start of our journey to expand our impact!
Headshot day at Love Never Fails!
November Job Fair at BOSS!
Meet the Team
Meet the Team
Ruhikaa Pannem
Ruhikaa Pannem
Hello! Among my hobbies, volunteering is one of my favorites. While volunteering, I saw firsthand how a simple act of support can make a huge difference. That's what inspired me to co-found Career Closet — to offer a practical, confidence-boosting hand to people as they pursue their career and financial goals!
Roma Singh
Roma Singh
Hi! Community work and volunteering have always been a huge part of who I am. Some of my most meaningful memories come from helping others feel prepared and supported. Co-founding Career Closet was a natural next step in continuing that impact and inspiring empowerment among others.
Sonya Paleja
Sonya Paleja
Hello! I started volunteering with Hope Avenue along with my family when I was barely 8 years old. Giving back to the community is a value that has been engraved into my life, and I look forward to continuing this as time persists. As a co-founder of Career Closet, I strive to help society fulfill their aspirations through my contribution and accomplishments!
Venya Iyer
Venya Iyer
Hi! I have been participating in community service projects from a young age. In my free time I love to give back to the community by volunteering in drives and fundraisers. Through these events, I have felt a great sense of accomplishment by helping those in need. I hope to keep this warm feeling as a co-founder of Career Closet!
Mission & Vision
Mission & Vision
Our Mission: To empower individuals seeking employment by providing free professional attire and career development resources. We are committed to fostering confidence and supporting every step toward career success—one outfit at a time.
Our Vision: We envision a community where every individual has the tools, appearance, and confidence to unlock their professional potential and achieve economic freedom.
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