Opportunity ATL, Metro Atlanta Chamber and Goodwill set hiring event for disadvantaged youths

Young people ages 16 to 24 who are unemployed or not in school are invited to attend a job and resource event on Oct. 16, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Goodwill of North Georgia’s career center, 2201 Lawrenceville Highway, Decatur.

 Opportunity ATL and the Metro Atlanta Chamber are partnering on the event, which will offer mock interviews, résumé assistance and training resources in addition to a pool of employers looking to hire new talent.  

Youths are encouraged  to come dressed professionally.  Goodwill is providing gently-used blazers at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis for those who don’t have professional attire. 

“No matter what challenge someone is having in finding work, Goodwill is here to help,” said Jenny Taylor, vice president of career services for Goodwill of North Georgia. “Our services include free tools and programs for youths, people with disabilities, returning citizens, and people with limited financial resources. Partnering with Opportunity ATL provides us with a seamless way to reach even more youth and we’re excited to host this event  in October.”

Atlanta has more than 34,000 youth who are currently not in school or employed. Frequently referred to as “opportunity youth,” these young people face a number of barriers that prevent them from finding and retaining employment. 

The Metro Atlanta Chamber has received funding to coordinate long-term efforts in support of Atlanta’s youth, and is working with several partners, including Goodwill, to make the Opportunity ATL event possible. Goodwill of North Georgia’s mission to put people to work

“Helping Atlanta’s youth obtain the resources they need to find work, and then providing them with introductions to companies who are actively hiring and can help make a difference in their lives is at the heart of why Opportunity ATL was launched,” said Amy Lancaster, director of workforce development for the Metro Atlanta Chamber. “We are thankful to have great partners such as Goodwill of North Georgia, which is hosting the job and resource fair at its Career Center in Decatur and is providing other resources to help these young people find success.”

For more information on the event, visit www.opportunityATL.org.