Career Fair Report

April 24

2014

April 24

1st NYC

55+ DAY OF EMPOWERMENT

CAREER FAIR

REPORT

Table of Contents• Introduction • NYC PDs & APD • Summary of Events• Collaborating Organizations• Start of Career Fair• Save-a-Suit Foundation & Veterans Testimonials • Summary of Pictures• Acknowledgements & Special Recognitions• Employer Comments & Summary• Recommendations & Conclusion

• Exhibit A: Flyer• Exhibit B: Program

2AARP Foundation Career Fair 2014

Introduction• On April 24, 2014, the AARP Foundation SCSEP hosted its 1st NYC 55+ Day

of Empowerment Career Fair in Manhattan. Over 375+ participants of record, looking for employment, descended upon the Alhambra Ballroom eager to meet with employers on hand.

• The event was scheduled to start at 10:00a.m., however, some participants excited about their future, arrived as early as 7:00a.m. and waited in the cold for the doors to open (3 hours before the start of the event!)

• This Fair focused primarily on the Mature Job Seeker(s) enrolled in our program and was not for public walk through. AARP Foundation SCSEP Participants were able to connect with organizations for information about jobs, employment training, internships, etc.


NYC PDs & APD

AARP Foundation Career Fair 2014 4

Joe Dirac-Manhattan, Luz Maldonado-Brooklyn, Elizabeth Stachiw-Queens, Rodolfo Colon-Bronx

Elizabeth Stachiw-Queens, Joe Dirac-Manhattan

APD Rita Rodriguez-Bronx, & Rodolfo Colon-Bronx

Summary of Events• Although it was the Foundation’s 1st solo Career Fair held in NYC, many of

our employers and participants applauded the Fair as a “huge success.” This contributes to the tireless efforts of the Planning Committee, that was comprised of selected Job Developers and Employment Specialists.

• The overall intentions of the Career Fair sought to promote workforce development in our region through the following objectives:– To encourage the Mature Job Seeker to begin the process of preparing

themselves for interviews.– Providing information through ongoing job clubs about all levels of

presenting themselves to employers.– Providing information and tools to help individuals make the right

choices in their search for employment.


Summary of Events (cont’d)

• Matching the needs of individuals’ personal and career goals with the needs of the labor market

– Addressing barriers to employment facing the Mature Job Seeker– Training and demonstrating the relationship between education and

careers.– Helping the Mature Job Seeker become more aware of today’s labor

market trends, career options, resources, and employment and training services available in our region.

– To provide a venue for organizations/employers to attract their future workforce and

– Encouraging participants to pursue their employment goals.


Collaborating Organizations• Business/Professional

– Mt. Sinai– Columbia University HR– FedCap/ReServe– TD Bank

• Sales & Services– CVS– Legal Shield– North American Power– Build Wealth 4 Ever

• Food Services– Fresh Direct

• Skilled Trades/Maintenance– MTA-Metro North Railroad

• Support Services/Health– Cohme– Preferred Home Care– Renaissance Home Health Care– Self Help

• Security– Allied Barton

• Education & Training– Clinton Institute– MLK Suny Attain Lab

• Support Staff– Good Temps Staffing– WF1 Upper Manhattan/S.I.– Penda Aiken Staffing

These organizations participated in promoting and encouraging the AARP Foundation SCSEP participation across the board.


9:00a.m.


Participants waiting to enter Venue

10:00a.m.


Crowds Emerging upon Employers

11:00a.m.


Participants continuing to enter Venue

12:00a.m.


Employers completely submerged with

Foundation Participants

Participants & Employers


Participants engaging with employers

Employers Engaging Participants


Save-A-Suit Foundation Table


Save-A-Suit Foundation


Jessica Ewud, Program Director and Staff assisting some veterans

who were fitted for suits.

Victoria Martinez, John Bond-Bronx, Jessica Ewud & Jessica Dugan

Gregory Rouse-Brooklyn, Russell Fleming-Manhattan

& Victoria Martinez

Veterans Testimonials“Please accept my gratitude for the Save-A-Suit campaign. The volunteer staff assigned was most

friendly, efficient, and courteous. It was my pleasure to have met them and to have had the chance to have a friendly conversation. It made the entire day a smooth and happy one. Thanks again for the Save-A-Suit campaign. “ George E. Stewart US Army/Airforce

“I appreciate the clothing provided by Save-A-Suit at the event. Thanks a lot for having them participate. I received 3 beautiful suits in excellent condition. Thank you for your loving care.”

Southwood Gordon

“As a veteran, I am very impressed and grateful. This will help me look great and help me get employed. Thank you. “ Lee A. Smith

“The suit I received from Save-A-Suit will really help the homeless vets and stand for a great cause. Thanks. “ Gregory M. Rouse

“In today’s economy, I thank you for giving us veterans the opportunity to open doors. This suit will give me the confidence I need. Thank you for your service.” Isaac Batts


“The staff was absolutely great in helping me to pick out a suit. Thank you.” John Bond

“To whom it may concern: thanks so much to Save-A-Suit for the business suits. This was much needed.” John Carter, USAF

“I appreciate the Save-A-Suit group for helping veterans. The staff was very kind and very courteous. “ David Williams

“To whom this may concern. Thanks so much to Save-A-Suit. This was a blessing to receive multiple suits, shirts, and ties. Thank you!” Anonymous

“The Save-A-Suit program is amazing- well thought out and most helpful to veterans. I hope that this program will continue. I am most grateful. “ Anonymous

Veterans Testimonials (cont’d)


Participants


Project Director Rodolfo Colon directing traffic

Job Developer Walter McCree of Brooklyn

site checking his resume information

Employers


Food Services in Action


Rosa Gonzalez-Manhattan, Maria Asuaje-Mymit-Queens, Carlita Manzano de Gomez-Bronx

Winners of the Raffles

Project Directors Joe Dirac & Rodolfo Colon

with Donated Raffle Prizes

Patricia Silva-Queens, Baxter Thomas-Manhattan, Gregory Rouse-Brooklyn & Miriam Llanos-Gruel-Bronx


Planning Committee


Denise Dees-Manhattan, Brenda Hurdle-Manhattan, Thomas Fanniel-Manhattan, Thomas Pope-Brooklyn,

Joyce Henderson-Brooklyn Deborah Headrick-Queens, Susan Jones-Miree-Bronx

& Madeline Wright-Manhattan

Hair Services in Action


Makeup

Barbering

Hair

Acknowledgements• NYC Project Directors

– Rodolfo Colon– Luz Maldonado– Elizabeth Stachiw– Joe Dirac– Tom Goodwin

• Planning Committee JDs/ES– Joyce Henderson– Thomas Pope– Walter McCree– Conrad Santos– Debora Headrick

• Planning Committee JDs/ES (cont’d)– Teresa Pavia– Gladys Nieves– Alina Valdes– Susan Jones-Miree– Inez Diaz– Thomas Fanniel– Denise Dees– Madeline Wright– Jeannette Steadman


Special Recognitions

– Bottomless Closet - Susan Monk, Program Associate

– Dress for Success Worldwide - Wendy Wilkins, Manhattan Branch Mgr.

– Save-a-Suit Foundation – Jessica Ewud, Executive Director

– Hair Stylist/Makeup Artist - Albania Arias & Virginia Cepin

– Master Barber - Eddie Cabrera

– Photographer - Donald Layne

– Food/Water Donations - Q & N & Popeye's Restaurants


Special Recognitions (cont’d)

– AARP Foundation T-shirts - Robert Starks (Headquarters)

– AARP Foundation Pens - Thu Vu (Headquarters)

– AARP Foundation Clothing Donations - Jodi Whitham (Headquarters)

– AARP Foundation Program Design & Layout - Brenda Hurdle (Manhattan)

– AARP Foundation Flyer - Emily L. Allen (Manhattan)

– AARP Foundation Volunteers - Roberta Marshall & Stella Stots


Employer Comments & Summary• A total of 23 Employers and activities such as workshops, raffles were

offered at this year’s Career Fair

• Although workshops were offered, only a small group of participants took advantage of the sessions

• Surveys were distributed to all employers at the end to help asses various components of the Career Fair.

• Employers noted that the volunteers were exceptionally friendly and helpful

• A Program Guide was created and given to all employers and participants prior to the event. Extra copies were kept on hand for those who needed more.


Employer Comments & Summary (cont’d)

• The strongest commendation from employers was repeated recognition of the hospitality of the AARP Foundation Volunteers, PD’s and Planning Committee at the event.

• The most repeated complaint from the exhibitors was some participants were not properly prepared or ready for the labor market.

• Further prep of some jobseekers might be needed based on some attitudes, not job-ready, etc. Suggest that ‘job clubs’ meet once a week or twice a month.

• Another minor comment was regarding a missing microphone to ensure everyone could hear the presentation properly and walkie talkies in case of emergencies.


Recommendations• Hold a training session to ensure that all JD’s/ES and Volunteers are

thoroughly aware of what their responsibilities are during the Fair. – Providing an orientation session in advance will also contribute to

ensuring everyone involved arrive for their shift during the event. Recruit back-up volunteers in case those scheduled are unable to attend at the last minute.

• There will need to be additional management staffers on hand to ensure a smooth event and eliminate any one person from being overwhelmed.

• Continue to have JDs/ES and Volunteers wear eye-catching t-shirts to be identified.

• Future Career Fairs should ensure that the Awards component is set in place as an essential part of the Fair.


Recommendations (cont’d)• Some re-training of Job Developers is needed among all sites to better

service their clients. We need to ensure that they are properly prepared to assist other participants to stay motivated to find permanent work. This is due to some feedback received from employers and other participants.

• Include more diversified employers in the career fair to ensure there is something for everyone.

• Budget restrictions didn't allow for what was needed for NYC area. To get a good price on a venue of choice, reservations should be made at least six(6) months in advance.


ConclusionAt the close of the Career Fair, employers were provided with a ‘End of Career Fair Survey’ to

express their comments and concerns.

• Employers expressed a high level of satisfaction with the Foundation’s 1st solo Career Fair in the City. The majority of participants stating that they were satisfied overall with the event and glad they attended.

• Because of this event, employers were exposed to their future workforce with connections being established between them and our participants. Participants were provided the opportunity to develop a greater awareness of what’s available to them along with today’s labor market trends that will help them overcome barriers when searching for permanent employment.

• Continue to conduct ongoing/informative seminars for participants who are may not be job ready to interview with employers.

• In time, these objectives will lead to economic development and job creation producing a stronger workforce that will lead to greater prosperity throughout our Region.


THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 2014

This Career Fair will allow You, the AARP Foundation Participant to connect with potential employers to gain employment opportunities that will provide the lifeline that you need.

Alhambra Ballroom2116 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd (126th & 7th Ave)New York, NY 10027 (212) 222-6940

Trains: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, A, B, C, D to 125th StreetBuses: M7, M100 ,M101, Bx15, M60 to 125th & 7th Ave

• Employers onsite• Bring plenty of resumes• Dress professionally• Wheelchair accessible• Motivational speakers• Special guest

55+ Day of Empowerment Career Fair 10:00a.m. – 4:00p.m.

The Alhambra Ballroom2116 7th Avenue @ 126th Street

New York, NY 10027Tel: 212-222-6940

Lisa Ryerson, PresidentDeb Briceland-Betts, Sr. Vice President Federal Programs

Robert Starks, Vice PresidentDevin Hearns, Assistant National Director

Mike Salesberry, Regional ManagerEmily L. Allen, NYC Employment Coordinator & Event Planner

AARP Foundation Mission Statement: AARP Foundation is AARP's affiliated charity - the heart of AARP. The Foundation is dedicated to serving vulnerable people 50+ by creating solutions that help them secure the essentials and achieve their best life. AARP Foundation focuses on hunger, housing, income and isolation as our key mission areas. The Foundation envisions a country free of poverty where no older person feels vulnerable. Foundation programs are funded by grants, tax-deductible contributions and AARP.

AcknowledgementsNYC Project Directors – Rodolfo Colon (Bronx), Joe Dirac (Manhattan),

Tom Goodwin (Staten Island), Luz Maldonado (Brooklyn), Elizabeth Stachiw (Queens),

NYC Planning Committee – Denise Dees, Inez Diaz, Thomas Fanniel, Debora Headrick, Joyce Henderson, Walter McCree,

Susan Jones-Miree, Gladys Nieves, Teresa Pavia, Thomas Pope, Conrado Santos, Alina Valdes, Madeline Wright

Special RecognitionsBob Starks – AARP Foundation SCSEP - T-Shirts

Thu Vu – AARP Foundation SCSEP - PensJodi Witham – AARP Foundation SCSEP - Clothing Donations

Brenda Hurdle – Program & Design LayoutDress for Success * Bottomless Closet

Save-a-Suit Foundation Q & N Restaurant * Popeye’s Restaurant

Albania Arias & Virginia Cepin – Hairstylist & Makeup Artist Eddie Cabrera- Master Barber

April 24, 201410:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Proudly Presents its 1st NYC

Day of Empowerment Career Fair

55+

6th Floor – EMPLOYERS, FOUNDATION & STATE OFFICE 9:00a.m. – 10:00a.m. Employer Setup & Continental Breakfast10:00 a.m. – 10:30a.m. Welcome & Introduction

AARP Foundation & State Office Staff

10:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Group A Participants12:00p.m. – 12:45p.m. Lunch Break

Participant Raffle

12:45p.m. – 3:30p.m. Group B Participants3:30p.m. – 4:15p.m. Closing Remarks & Pictures

(Foundation Staff & State Office)

4:15p.m. – 4:45p.m Employer Breakdown & Close out 5th Floor – PARTICIPANTS CHECKPOINT9:00a.m. – 10:00a.m. Participants check-in, Badge Pickup, Fittings, etc.10:15a.m. – 10:30a.m. Ronald Guy, Director- Motivational Speaker

Goddard Riverside Single Stop

10:30a.m. – 11:15a.m. Workshop 1 – (AARP State Office) “How to Promote Yourself to Employers”

11:15a.m. – 11:30a.m. George Dorsett – Motivational Speaker Former AARP Participant, Self Employed

11:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Participant Raffle12:00p.m. – 12:45p.m. Lunch Break 12:45p.m. – 1:45p.m. Workshop 2 – (AARP State Office)

1:45p.m. – 2:00p.m. Vicki Popp – Motivational Speaker ResCare Jobs-Plus Program S.I.

2:00p.m. – 3:00p.m. Workshop 3 - (AARP State Office)

3:00p.m. – 3:30p.m. Pictures3:30p.m. – 4:00p.m. Q & A Session

4:00p. - Close out

EDSI solutions Staten Island

EDSI solutions Upper Manhattan

Build Wealth 4 Ever

April 24, 2014PROGRAM AGENDA

The Genard Group, Inc.

http://www.alliedbarton.com/

http://www.cvs.com/

http://www.renaissancehomehc.com/

https://www.goodtemps.org/index.aspx

http://www.tdbank.com/

http://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.nyclinton.com/&sa=U&ei=Kms8U7KdI8qU0QHQ8YG4Aw&ved=0CDoQ9QEwBg&usg=AFQjCNGe0vWUi5X9NdFAYCIMqlkLQCoDqg

http://www.pendaaiken.com/

http://www.mountsinai.org/

http://napower-online.com/PPC/

http://hr.columbia.edu/

Thank You

Despite numerous challenges, the Job Developers/Employment Specialist along with the assistance of the Project Directors from each site and our Regional Manager, Mike Salesberry worked tirelessly to make this Career Fair as much of a success as possible. Their efforts are to be applauded.

‘THANK YOU ALL’ for working so hard in making the 1st NYC 55+ Day of Empowerment Career Fair a huge success!

Emily L. Allen NYC Employment Coordinator/Event Planner


Career Fair Report

Documents

Transcript of Career Fair Report