People who are out of work and want to be ready for the return of the job market - or who may need a little help making it through the winter - should attend the Treasure Valley Community Resource and Career Fair Nov. 5-6 at the Idaho Center in Nampa.
Fair hours for both Thursday and Friday are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Attendance is free.
Over 40 percent of Idaho's unemployed workers live in southwestern Idaho, and more than half of those who lost their jobs in the last year are in the Boise-Nampa metropolitan area.
“This event is for job seekers or entrepreneurs who want to be ready for the day things get better," said Bob Vetter, an Idaho Department of Labor consultant organizing the event. "And while department economists predict we may not see any year-over-year job growth until maybe late next summer or fall, it doesn't mean people shouldn't start planning for it now."
Entrepreneurs or people thinking about going out on their own can learn more about starting a business, small business loans, employment services and finding employees.
For job seekers, the fair offers one stop for information on changing careers, financial aid for education and training and volunteer opportunities that Vetter says often lead to jobs. Information on social support services for people in transition will also be available from weatherizing homes and putting food on the table to taking care of the kids and keeping a roof over families’ heads.
Free workshops for job seekers include improving job search, résumé writing, interviewing and online networking skills along with seminars on Idaho wage and hour laws, volunteerism and support services available in the Treasure Valley.
Vetter says the fair is an excellent opportunity for employers who want to staff up for the holiday season and are looking for employees. Of the 70 booths registered so far, 13 say they have jobs available. Businesses or organizations that do not provide a public service must have valid job listings the day of the fair.
Booth spaces are still available for businesses and organizations are being provided for free by the Idaho Center. Additional costs may be incurred for extra convention services such as electrical service or Internet connections. For more information on exhibiting at the Treasure Valley Community Resource and Career Fair, call Bob Vetter at 364-7781 ext 3193 or e-mail at Robert.Vetter@labor.idaho.gov, or Joe Goitiandia at 364-7781 ext 3141 or e-mail at Jose.Goitiandia@labor.idaho.gov.