Blog Post: Helping People Find Better Jobs and Career Opportunities to Improve Their Lives

The Jobing Foundation's mission states "We are committed to helping people find better jobs and career opportunities to improve their lives. We are passionate about helping prepare the current and future workforce in our local Jobing Communities. We do this by creating and supporting programs, volunteer activities and educational channels that are focused on local workforce development."  It's my job to find ways that we can affect positive workforce development either directly or by supporting others in their efforts.  I'm passionate about this and believe that those in the Human Resource profession are in the absolute best position to join this cause.  A long term economic recovery will require an investment today in tomorrow's talent. 

Workforce development comes in many forms:

• Consider the senior executive that is considering retirement in the next few years.  She might be considering ways to mentor and pass on knowledge, extending her career while reducing some of the responsibilities, or just needs to continue to work because her investment portfolio has been hit hard.  She needs one type of counseling... and the organization she works for needs to be prepared for when she does retire... that's a big loss of experience!
• "Overqualified" is a word that's heard regularly by those that are more experienced, but looking for a new opportunity.  These overqualified individuals need a different type of advice.
• Unemployment is on the rise.  All of those laid off need to relearn or reenergize their job search skills. Another that is still gainfully employed would like to improve their skills.  Networking, volunteering in their professional organization, and going back to school are opportunities for anyone at any point in their career.
• At risk or difficult to place groups are really hard hit in these tough economic times.  Those at the lowest of income levels are most likely to be considered expendable.  Low income, non-English speaking, former offenders, individuals with disabilities, TANF recipients.... these candidates have difficulty finding gainful employment in a growth economy.  They need extra coping skills now more than ever.  For instance, in March 2009, unemployment amongst individuals with disabilities was 13.9% versus 8.9% of the general US population. 
• And of course education... Nearly 8% of Arizona's high schoolers drop out in their senior year.  One study has calculated that nearly 30% of Phoenix metropolitan areas drop out.  And yet 7 of the top 10 projected highest growh positions will require some form of post secondary education. 

And so do the solutions... Professionals can give of their time, their knowledge, or other resources.  Here's just a few suggestions:

• For the senior executive -- how about locating a mentorship?  Share your experience, bring on an intern to both take some of the load off while building tomorrow's talent
• Supporting baby boomers with job search skills and networking opportunities through Boomers in Demand.
• How about an afternoon of resume reviews at your local workforce center to support the many in transition... even if you are an HR professional in transition, you'll find that you're helping yourself by helping others in the process.
• And there are literally hundreds of government and non profit organizations in the Valley that need your help with an at risk group, can provide networking opportunities, and new opportunities for growh.  What touches your heart... and get involved?  Check out some of the great organizations listed in Jobing.com's List of Community Organizations.
• And finally, education... Donate to a scholarship, return to your alma mater to mentor, give a class, sit on a panel, or volunteer at your local school.  Exhibitor and volunteer opportunities are still available at Experience Your Future Day where 7000 8th grade students will be visiting the University of Phoenix Stadium on April 30th to learn about their future careers.

For more information about the efforts of the Jobing Foundation, visit www.JobingFoundation.org.