KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Justin Postlewait says his company furloughed him because of the COVID-19 pandemic and a seasonal downturn.
“It’s been that way for a few months now and so we’re just looking for what’s next,” he said.
Postlewait’s search pointed him toward the Full Employment Council in Kansas City, Missouri. Thursday the agency hosted its first ever “One Drive to Success” event.
“We’re trying to rapidly connect [people] to either training or jobs,” said Shelley Penn, the organization’s senior vice president.
To pull off the event, the FEC set up tents in its parking lot near East 18th Street and The Paseo. It handed out flyers, shared information and answered questions as people drove through the lot, never having to leave their cars.
“We don’t want people to give up,” explained Clyde McQueen, the FEC’s president. “We want people to understand, despite all the things that have been happening, at least in our region, we have a way for them to access jobs and provide for their families.”
The FEC reopened its facility at the beginning of August, but found many job seekers aren’t comfortable coming inside buildings during the pandemic. The “One Drive to Success” event is a creative way the FEC is trying to overcome challenges.
Penn helped 41 Action News put together a Rebound Rundown for people looking for jobs:
- Check with agencies like the Full Employment Council which are designed to connect jobs with job seekers.
- Don’t be afraid to change. Find “a new way for the new day” instead.
- Industries like IT, healthcare, and manual labor are hiring.
- Now is a good time to “skill up” by earning a new certification to find a new career.
- You may qualify for free training/schooling through Missouri's Return Strong Initiative and other programs.
“My background was very specific,” Postlewait said. “I think to transition into today’s employment areas, I’m going to need some additional certifications.”
The FEC plans to hold similar events in Independence, the Northland and South KC in the weeks to come. Times are to be announced.
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The Rebound Kansas City is our effort is to help metro residents play a role in moving our community forward. We would love to hear your thoughts and ideas to via email to rebound@kshb.com and we welcome you to join in the conversation on the Rebound KC Facebook Group.
Whether you're Getting Back to Work after a layoff, need help Making Ends Meet during these trying times or need tips on Managing the Pressure we're all feeling, The Rebound has resources to find help. We'll also make sure local leaders are Doing What's Right to get Kansas City back track after a three-month shutdown.
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