Ventura County Job & Carreer Centers respond to increasing local unemployment rate
October 01, 2008
Santa Paula News
As the unemployment rate hit 7.1 percent for Ventura County in August (State of California EDD), the Human Services Agency and Workforce Investment Board of Ventura County are focusing their efforts on informing the community about the free job seeker and employer services available at the Job & Career Centers throughout Ventura County.
As the unemployment rate hit 7.1 percent for Ventura County in August (State of California EDD), the Human Services Agency and Workforce Investment Board of Ventura County are focusing their efforts on informing the community about the free job seeker and employer services available at the Job & Career Centers throughout Ventura County.“Thousands of people use center services every month,” says Cheryl Moore, WIB executive director. “Whether people are entering the job market, re-entering after a layoff, or looking to change careers, they have convenient access to thousands of current local jobs. Free Internet access, computers, printers, and fax machines are available. Many Job & Career Centers offer monthly workshops on topics such as interview tactics, resume writing, and online job search techniques. As businesses downsize, employers are able to offer free workshops that provide guidance - and hope - to workers making career transitions.”“With the current employment climate, it is critical to get the word out,” says Alex Teague, WIB chair and senior vice president, Limoneira Company. “Whether it’s increasing their skill sets, finding careers that are right for them, or using center resources to search for the next job, job seekers have an exceptional, free resource right here in the county.”
Employer outreach is an integral part of the equation as the Job & Career Centers seek to match or train qualified job seekers with local business needs. “Center staff provide companies with employee recruitment services, customized training and employment services--all at no charge,” says Barry Zimmerman, Human Services Agency director. “Our trained staff can be of assistance both to a small business owner and the human resources department of a larger business.” The Ventura County Job & Career Centers are located in Fillmore, Oxnard (three), Santa Paula, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks and Ventura. For more information, go to www.venturacountyjcc.org or call (800) 500-7705.