By Leslie Collins
Northeast News
June 1, 2011

Don Bosco Centers and ARAMARK are declaring W.A.R. on unemployment.

Called Work Awareness Resources (W.A.R.) to Overcome Unemployment, the June 10 workshop is a new initiative to help the community learn the ins and outs of successfully finding a job.

“We want to offer hope and let them (attendees) know we’re here for them. We just want to make them better for the employment world and maybe help them feel better about themselves, feel a little more equipped,” said Carla Brewer, Don Bosco Family Support Center director.

Brewer said the free workshop is open to anyone searching for a job and walk-ins are welcome.

Roberta Stubbs, Don Bosco employment specialist and case manager, said the workshop compliments Don Bosco’s Work Empowerment (WE) Program and will be set up in stations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 10 in the Don Bosco gym, Independence Avenue and Garfield. Stations will focus on creating resumes and cover letters, job application tips, appearance pointers, interview skills, mock interviews and resource guides. Both Don Bosco and ARAMARK employees will lead the stations, and several employers will be on site.

“We’re going to try to make it fun,” Brewer said. “We’ll have some drawings and have free gift bags for everyone who completes the workshop.”

Those who complete the workshop will also receive a coupon for a haircut at a local hair salon.

At the appearance pointer station, attendees will watch a fashion show of do’s and dont’s on how to dress for the job interview. Individuals can also participate in a videotaped mock interview and watch the playback of their interview.

“It’s just to make it fun, so they can critique themselves when they’re finished with this mock interview,” Stubbs said.

Interviewees may notice they twist their hair or fidget, among other things, Stubbs said.

Another station is catered toward ex-felons and Second Chance employees will discuss the barriers ex-felons face and how they can find employment.

Those who need assistance with finding childcare or completing their GED or other form of education will also receive helpful information.

“I hope they will really get a new drive and continue to find out there are people willing to help you,” Stubbs said of the workshop attendees.

For more information, call (816) 691-2802.