Hannah poses next to a Twin Transit bus she is featured on as part of the 2021 Inclusive Hiring Campaign. Photo Credit: Brittany Voie
Cultivating Inclusion – Lewis County is an organization involving a broad array of community partners dedicated to promoting acceptance and empowerment of Lewis County residents who have intellectual, behavioral and/or physical differences. As part of these efforts, Cultivating Inclusion is hosting the first Inclusive Career Fair on Wednesday, April 26, at Centralia College’s TransAlta Commons. The Career Fair is open to the public from 1 to 3 pm, with a lunchtime workshop for employers prior to the event. The Inclusive Career Fair is hosted in partnership with Economic Alliance of Lewis County and sponsored by Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce.
Nicole Miller, Operations Director for the Inclusion Career Fair spearheaded this effort. “I’ve been to many job fairs with clients where employers have generally been responsive but we thought it would be good to create a more intentional space, especially for students and young people to learn more about careers and for employers who are out there to find a good fit.”
Lisa Davis, Cultivating Inclusion board President, added, “Anytime we talk about employment, it’s not strictly about getting or giving a job; it’s about getting to know and learn from each other.”
All are welcome to attend, with an emphasis on individuals who are neurodiverse, have developmental disabilities or differences, high school students with an IEP or a 504 plan, or anyone who has had difficulty accessing employment through the typical application process.
“The Chamber is especially pleased to partner with this project as it dovetails nicely with our June and September hiring events,” noted Chamber Director Cynthia Mudge. “This is a great opportunity for employers to broaden and diversify their hiring pool.”
Attendees will meet with various employers and industry representatives and are encouraged to bring several copies of their resumes. Volunteers are available throughout the event offering resume advice to attendees.
For details visit CultivatingInclusion.org
Cultivating Inclusion – Lewis County
Lewis County Autism Coalition
Economic Alliance of Lewis County
Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce
