KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A unique program is preparing young people for the workforce.
For the third year, Hire KC is hosting its Hiring Fair at Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley in Kansas City, Missouri. The goal is to help high school and college students and recent graduates find professional opportunities and mentors.
In 2017, Vinh Pham graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. After having a difficult time transitioning from college to the workforce, Pham attended Hire KC's Hiring Fair.
"I was looking around and I was really struggling to find a job opportunity or internship," Pham said.
Hire KC is the original, signature youth employment program started by Kansas City Mayor Sly James. In 2017, James expanded the initiative from a City Hall program into a citywide youth success platform managed by the KC Social Innovation Center.
"We're kind of building that bridge between employers and young people," said Kaylee Peile, portfolio catalyst for KC Social Innovation Center. "Often times it's hard for young people to find those opportunities or really know what industry looks like. The things that they're interested in they don't ever really get to get their feet wet."
In 2018, 170 young people attended the Hiring Fair. Peile said more than 500 students have registered to attend this year, but she is expecting more.
Hire KC is growing, and more than 80 employers from around the region are expected to attend. Hundreds of internships, part-time and full-time jobs will be available.
The Hiring Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday in the Education Center located on the MCC-Penn Valley campus.
To register, click here.
THINGS TO KNOW:
- This event is free and open to all pre-registered young people.
- Dress code is business professional. No jeans, tennis shoes or any street attire will be accepted. The dress code will be enforced the day of the fair.
- A complete listing of employers will provided in advance.
