The Eagle Nest location with Ashlynn, Kathy, Melinda, and Kerri. (Photo courtesy Cowley First)
Thanks to the support received through a mini-grant awarded by the Kansas Volunteer Commission, Cowley First has been able to work with area organizations to establish a workforce support network with computer workstations for job seekers in Cowley County, according to a news release from Cowley First-Cowley County Economic Development Partnership Director Karen Falletti.
The Volunteer Support Mini-grant with KVC is used to support programs that are volunteer or mentor driven initiatives. The intent of the grant is to provide opportunities for citizens to solve an immediate need caused by COVID-19, with emphasis on serving vulnerable populations as well as those serving in rural areas.
An immediate need that has developed in Cowley County and continues to increase is for the unemployed to find work. Many individuals and families have been impacted by COVID-19 through loss of employment.
There are also many employers that are looking for workers. Our goal through this project, is to provide resources to connect those looking for work with available opportunities.
Many times, it is that people do not know where to look. Through this partnership with the non-profit organizations, workstations have been established at Angels in the Attic- Arkansas City, Eagle Nest-Winfield, and Burden Senior Center, to develop a network for services.
These workstations will provide a location for individuals to search for work, submit online or print applications, and receive one-on-one assistance.
Cowley First staff will work with volunteer mentors and educate them on available resources that will be utilized to aid based on an individual’s needs. For example, learn about all the resources available at www.cowley-works.com where Cowley First maintains an active listing of employment opportunities throughout Cowley County.
Mentors will be able to assist in registering for additional programs, such as Kansas Works. This will connect them with virtual resources as well as virtual job fairs. Mentors will also provide resume reviews, application guidance and offer mock interviews and tips.
To provide for safety and distancing, services will be provided by appointment only at each of the locations by calling:
Angels in the Attic: 620-446-5272
Eagle Nest (Fridays): 620-229-8282
Burden Sr. Center: 620-221-9951
If you have questions or would like to volunteer to be a mentor, please call Cowley First at 620-221-9951 or 620-442-3094.
