The PA CareerLink® North Office Job Fair, held on August 11 at the gymnasium of Esperanza Academy, drew a large crowd of young adults, women, and men seeking employment opportunities, higher education information, and valuable resources to support various aspects of their lives.
A Gateway to employment and career development
Philadelphia Works, Inc. contracts local service providers to operate Philadelphia’s four PA CareerLink® centers and related workforce services. Together, these centers create a network of opportunities designed to strengthen skills, increase access to jobs, and develop career pathways that promote economic opportunity for all.
The centers are located in four areas of the city: West Philadelphia, Center City, North Philadelphia, and Northwest Philadelphia.
Bringing employees and resources to the community
According to Wanda I. Carlo, Site Administrator of the PA CareerLink® North Office, the goal of these events is to bring services directly to the community.
«We want people to come in, speak with employers, ask questions, share their work history, and in some cases even participate in interviews,» Carlo said.
Approximately 35 employers participated in the fair, along with organizations offering resources in a wide range of areas, including parenting support, home fire prevention, access to clean drinking water, information about the municipal identification card, and other community services.
«We try to provide a mix of presenters so that people can search for jobs while also gaining access to valuable resources. We organize small job fairs once or twice a month, depending on community needs,» Carlo explained.
Important information on lithium-ion battery safety
One of the informational tables focused on lithium-ion battery safety. These batteries power a variety of devices, including smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, e-scooters, electronic cigarettes, smoke alarms, toys, and electric vehicles.
Representatives explained that damaged or improperly used batteries can catch fire or explode. Residents were advised to stop using a battery immediately if they notice warning signs such as unusual odors, discoloration, excessive heat, swelling, leaks, or strange noises. If it is safe to do so, the device should be moved away from flammable materials, and emergency services should be contacted by calling 911.
Resources for older adults and families
The fair also featured resources for adults age 55 and older through Project HELP, a workforce training initiative of the National Caucus and Center on Black Aging, Inc. (NCBA). The program provides paid part-time job training opportunities for individuals who have been unemployed for more than six months and who are legal residents of the United States.
Meanwhile, Casa del Carmen, a program of Catholic Charities of Philadelphia, announced its upcoming English Club session focused on employment topics, scheduled for August 26 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. The organization also promoted virtual parenting classes centered on positive and nurturing parenting practices, beginning September 2.
The organization Women Against Abuse distributed information about legal services available to survivors of domestic violence, including support for immigrants and refugees.
Supporting the Latino community
Job fairs organized by the PA CareerLink® North Office continue to help connect Philadelphia’s Latino community with employment opportunities, educational pathways, health resources, and essential services, contributing to stronger families and a more resilient community.