CBA Hosts Job Fair, Prepares Youth For Careers

citizen |

Keith Freeman, a job developer from the Career Development, Training and Employment Services, gave insight to students about the Chicago Area Project and the various activities that local youths can participate in and began developing career training skills to compete in this global economy. (Photo Credit: CBA)
Keith Freeman, a job developer from the Career Development, Training and Employment Services, gave insight to students about the Chicago Area Project and the various activities that local youths can participate in and began developing career training skills to compete in this global economy. (Photo Credit: CBA)

by Thelma Sardin

More than 40 young adults exercised their networking and interviewing skills on June 25 at the fourth annual Chatham Business Association (CBA) Juniors job fair.

A week prior, the adolescents attended a mandatory workshop hosted by the CBA. According to the organization, attendees were given a three hour preparatory course consisting of power point presentations from employers, one-on-one interview techniques, skill assessments, and workplace attire.

Both the workshop and job fair were held at Chatham Ice Theaters located in West Chatham.

The CBA says that the purpose of both programs is to prepare youth for employment and career placement.

Companies present at the job fair included: Chicago Area Project, Nike Shoe Store, Jewel-Osco, SCR, Chicago Architecture Foundation, Wal-Mart, Walgreens, Essential Creations, Illinois Department of Employment Services, East-West University, Student Financial Services, and Lanette Warbington, World of Fashion and Accessories

Before the fair, the students were given a 20 minute prep talk and agenda.

At first, many students were afraid to interact with the employers but quickly rose to the occasion.

The students were initially nervous about speaking one-on-one with the employers but the job preparation eased their discomfort, and with the support of CBA staff each student delved into the job fair without fear or nervousness and stayed persistent in their search for the employment opportunity and possible career placement, said Melinda Kelly, CBA executive director.

Numerous students received job leads from employers.

Moreover, many employers interviewed several students in private for more extensive screening.

The CBA says that the Chicago Area Project plans to follow up with at least eight students that were interviewed.

Mark Sanders, Walmart Express general manager was very impressed with the youth.

The students were very enthusiastic and engaging. They were well prepared and are off to a good start, he said.

Sanders also recommended several young people for employment at Wal-Mart. There were many students that would be an asset to Walmart and the community. I am looking forward to seeing which ones will apply for a position at my location or one of the new stores coming soon, he said.

Keith O. Freeman, Senior Job Developer/VISTA Supervisor with Chicago Area Project believes the CBA is doing an excellent job at preparing students for job readiness. He says the teens were both eager and enthusiastic.

[The students] were more prepared than I expected them to be...that speaks volumes to what the CBA [is doing] for these kids lives," he said.

Latest Stories

Latest Podcast

STARR Community Services International, Inc.