A recent job fair in Chanute illustrated one of the primary challenges facing employers in these parts.
About 300, mostly unemployed, attended, proof that people are interested in improving their lot in life, said Bill Maness, economic development director for Thrive Allen County.
On the flip side, many of those at the fair were ill-prepared to meet face-to-face with prospective employers. Some appeared wearing pajama bottoms instead of jeans or slacks. Others came toting small children and were unable to stay focused on the process.
“With the state unemployment under 4 percent, that’s where employers find barriers,” said Matt McNally, assistant operations manager for Southeast Kansas Works, an organization that serves unemployed or under-employed residents. “It’s up to us to help them find ways to bridge those gaps.”
Southeast Kansas Works, at the invitation of Maness and Thrive Allen County, has developed a new pilot program for Allen County.
Career advisers Aime Cope and Neal Fama will be in Thrive offices through June to help unemployable clients become better equipped to getting, and holding, full-time jobs.
The services are offered free of charge.
“We really want to get the word out that Southeast Kansas Works is here,” Maness said. “We know the need is there.”
COPE AND Fama will be at the Thrive office, 9 S. Jefferson Ave., from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each Wednesday to offer one-on-one career guidance and job search assistance, access to resume and online applications, local job openings, career assessments and information regarding local community agencies, job training and employment support programs.
Likewise, the program also works extensively with employers by providing a number of services, such as labor market information, resume screenings or financial assistance if the employer hires a Southeast Kansas Works client.
“We try to do as much of the legwork as possible, so there’s less time, money and energy being spent by businesses willing to work with us,” McNally said.
A handful of local companies have been approached. Some already have agreed to participate.
All residents who are unemployed or receive public assistance are automatically eligible.
“SAY THERE’S a stay-at-home mom who has raised her kids, and she’s now ready to enter the work force but has no job history. These guys can help her,” Maness said.
Or, say a person has run afoul of the law, and has a DUI or drug charge on his record.
