Portland, OR – October 23, 2024 – Today REACH Community Development successfully hosted its Employment Support Day, providing essential job-seeking support and career-building resources to REACH residents. The event aimed to assist residents with resume writing, interview practice, job searching, and boosting confidence to succeed in today’s competitive job market.
This initiative, funded with support from KeyBank, was a key component of REACH’s mission to not only offer affordable housing but also to equip residents with the tools necessary to build sustainable futures. Employment Support Day featured one-on-one career coaching and advice tailored to the specific needs of participants, whether they were entering the job market for the first time, changing careers, or returning to the workforce after a period of unemployment.
“At KeyBank, we know that a crucial building block to a stable future is developing skills that will lead to successful and fulfilling employment,” said Josh Lyons, KeyBank’s Market President for Oregon and S.W. Washington and Commercial Banking leader. “This program will help some of our most vulnerable neighbors attain secure employment, which will increase their ability to pay their rent on time and help them navigate a path forward.”
“Our goal is always to create pathways to success for our residents,” said Margaret Salazar, CEO of REACH. “Through the Employment Support Day, we are offering a platform for residents to gain skills and confidence, empowering them to take the next step in their career journey. It is part of our holistic approach to fostering a thriving community.”
The event included:
- Resume and Cover Letter Workshops: Residents received guidance on creating or improving their resumes and cover letters.
- Mock Interviews: Participants engaged in practice interviews, receiving valuable feedback to refine their skills.
- Job Search Assistance: Expert advice was provided on how to effectively search for jobs, with tips on navigating online platforms and local employment networks.
- Career Coaching: Residents took part in one-on-one sessions that helped them identify career goals, develop job readiness, and create actionable plans for long-term success.
Michael, a resident at one of REACH’s SE Portland properties, joined the event as a volunteer and event participant. “I heard about it from a bulletin flyer at my building. I came to do volunteer work for REACH to get everything setup, and also look at careers at different places. I talked with three businesses of interest and looking forward to the next steps.”
In addition to the personalized career support, residents had the opportunity to network with local employers and access community resources that support job readiness, financial literacy, and employment stability. Participating employers and resource agencies included Oregon Department of Human Services, B.E.S.T -Black Employee Support Team, Goodwill of the Columbia Willamette & Job Connection, Worksource Oregon, Garda World Security, Providence Health & Services, Oregon Department of Corrections, BRIDGE Housing, iUrban Teen, Central City Concern, SE Works, Retail Odyssey + Advantage Solutions, Oregon Army National Guard, DPI Staffing, and All Star Labor and Staffing.
“Central City Concern is thrilled to partner with REACH on this event,” said Amanda Laporte-Luna, Employment Specialist at Central City Concern. We appreciate these collaborative opportunities to connect agencies through our employment support work and provide greater access to clients we serve across our organizations.”
REACH’s Resident Services team, which facilitated Employment Support Day, continues to offer year-round assistance with housing stability, health and wellness, and personal development for REACH residents. This event was one of many services aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth and self-sufficiency within the community.
For more information about future employment support opportunities or to inquire about volunteer or partnership opportunities, please visit www.reachcdc.org.
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About REACH Community Development
For over 40 years, REACH Community Development has provided affordable housing and community services in the Portland Metro area. With a mission to create quality, affordable homes and promote healthy communities, REACH serves thousands of residents each year by offering programs that support housing stability, financial security, and overall well-being. More information about REACH and its programs is available at https://reachcdc.org