Earlier this month, a special hiring event tailored for jobseekers aged 55 and older brought together over 100 attendees, 15 employers, and a variety of community resources—all under one roof at CareerForce in Blaine. Hosted by Leading CareerForce Partner, Anoka County Job Training Center, in partnership with local organizations, the event aimed to support older adults re-entering the workforce, many of whom are navigating new financial realities post-retirement.
The stories shared were powerful. Several attendees, including a retired couple, expressed deep gratitude—not only for the job leads but also for the food resources available on-site. One jobseeker left smiling, saying, “It was a good day”—a stark contrast to how he felt walking in. These moments underscored the importance of creating welcoming, resource-rich spaces for older adults seeking stability and purpose.
Event Highlights:
- 109 jobseekers attended, with a steady flow throughout the event.
- 15 employers participated, many reporting strong leads and meaningful conversations.
- 6 community resources were present, offering support ranging from employment services to food assistance.
- Staff facilitated a pre-event huddle with employers and resources to ensure a smooth, collaborative experience.
This event was more than a job fair—it was a reminder that with the right support, hope and opportunity are always within reach.
