SuitUp Springfield introduces new president at fundraiser

Nov. 19, 2015 | G. Michael Dobbs
news@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD – With just a year under its belt, Suit Up Springfield has assisted more than 400 people look their best for job interviews.

The nonprofit organization’s first birthday was celebrated on Nov. 12 with “Bowties and Beer,” a fundraiser at the Student Prince.

The event highlighted a draft beer line up by White Lion, and The Student Prince donated 10 percent of all food and beverage proceeds from the evening to Suit Up Springfield.

Hampden County Sheriff Michael Ashe Jr. donated $2,000 to the organization.

Justin Roberts, who is a development officer at American International College, founded the organization. It provides men’s professional clothing and professional development mentorship programs in men in Springfield.

He said the success of the first year “took a lot of time and effort from a lot of people in the community.”

He added, “I’m humbled by all those who have embraced our mission; everyone from Sheriff Michael Ashe to United States Senator Elizabeth Warren has supported Suit Up’s goal of helping men succeed. Our board members have carried that momentum to every part of the region, and I’m excited to see how our incoming president will continue our work.”

Roberts stepped down as president of the organization and introduced its new president Alfonso Santaniello, president of The Creative Strategy Agency Inc.

Santaniello told Reminder Publications Suit Up Springfield is currently working with High School of Commerce students to improve their interviewing skills and has done similar work with 600 inmates of the Hampden County House of Corrections.

He said the organization plans to continue doing such work, if not increase it.

The organization announced at the event it will be working with the Western Massachusetts chapter of Dress for Success, which does similar work with disadvantaged women.

“We really want to expand how other people can get involved,” Santaniello said.

More information about the organization can be found at http://suitupspringfield.com.

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