March 18, 2009

Laid-off workers can now call one number to find local resources

New call center makes it easy for unemployed to access training opportunities, community resources and employment information

People from all parts of Lane County can now call one number to gain access to emergency fund programs, local food banks, child care, training, and employment opportunities after they've lost their jobs.

Worksource Lane/The Workforce Network, an initiative of the Lane Workforce Partnership, in collaboration with Lane Community College, United Way, the Oregon Department of Human Services and the Oregon Employment Department, is opening a resource call center to field calls from those who've recently become unemployed.

On Tuesday, March 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., there will be an opportunity to interview/video those leading the initiative at the new call center, located at 300 Country Club Road.

Career advisors who will be fielding calls when the center opens - a few of which recently lost their jobs - will also be available for interviews. One advisor is bilingual and can help Spanish-speaking people. Media is asked to check into Suite 120 prior to interviews.

"We know laid-off workers have questions about assistance with utility and rent or house payments, child care options and food banks, as well as employment and training opportunities," said Chuck Forster, executive director of the Lane Workforce Partnership. "Our goal is to provide very specific information to people who call in so they can get the resources they need."

The center will officially open Wednesday, March 18. Laid off workers in Lane County can call 541-682-7200. Those who live in Mapleton and Florence should call 541-997-3507. The center's hours will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

"Many people are interested in retraining," said Kristina Payne, workforce investment manager. "Our advisors will be able to talk with callers about the growing industries in Lane County and the types of jobs and skills needed to fill them. We want to assure people that they can take positive steps to prepare for and find a new job. We're here to help people figure out what to do next."

Call center staff members were trained by United Way and the Department of Human Services to connect the unemployed with various community and state resources.

People who call in will be connected to the service they need in the most direct way possible and will be encouraged to call back if they do not receive the assistance they they need. Callers may also provide their e-mail address, so they can receive updated information.

Data obtained during the calls will also be used to identify needs of the community to prepare requests for National Emergency and other grant funds. The names and identities of people will remain confidential.

Serving Lane county residents for over 20 years, the Lane Workforce Partnership is a business-led workforce development organization dedicated to assisting businesses to recruit and retain employees and to helping individuals to gain the knowledge and skills to find employment and progress in their careers.