Today, Ryan Frank of The Oregonian detailed the continual rise of unemployment in Oregon. The effects of an 11% unemployment rate are felt in every corner of the state. At 211info, we saw the highest monthly call volume ever (more than 13,000 calls). Many of these calls were for basic needs, such as utility assistance or food, but we also want to spread the word about some of the employment programs in Oregon.
You can call 2-1-1 or visit our website 211info.org and search EMPLOYMENT in our online database for information on almost 150 work programs including all of the WorkSource programs, State Employment Department, State Vocational Rehabilitation programs and Job Corps programs. But in the meantime, here are some programs that may be of particular interest:
Seniors Make Sense
Portland, OR
503-232-7684
About: An employment program which provides paid community service training opportunites for unemployed workers ages 55 and older.
Portland Youth Builders
Portland, OR
503-286-9350
www.pybpdx.org
About: Offers a holistic approach to youth development that incorporates high school education, job readiness training and community leadership.
Hire Oregon Vets
Oregon City, OR
503-655-8840
www.hirevetsfirst.gov
About: Statewide partnership to increase the employment of veterans.
Disabled Veterans Outreach Program
Bend, OR
541-388-6079
www.workinginoregon.org
About: Works to meet employment and training needs of U.S. Armed Forces Veterans and their families.
Goodwill Job Connection
Portland, OR
877-676-5872
www.meetgoodwill.org
About: Provides a free job search and referral program designed to assist in locating employment within 30 days.
Better People – Portland
Portland, OR
503-281-2663
www.betterpeople.org
About: Works with individuals who have prior legal history.
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Multnomah County, OR, SarahSM, WCCLS Libraries, Good Causes Portland, 211info and others. 211info said: If you're an Oregonian not lucky enough to land a Facebook job soon, you can check these resources out: http://bit.ly/8GCGFz [...]
It sounds like you’re creating problems yourself by trying to solve this issue instead of seeking at why their usually a problem in special first place
Lanny – There are two sides of the coin. Trying to lower unemployment and trying to help the people who are unemployed survive difficult times. We do the former by referring people to available job programs or by helping them find resources like free or low-cost clothing for job interviews. We do the latter by connecting people with resources that will keep dinner on the table or a roof over their heads. Although in both scenarios, we are a source of information, not a direct resource provider.