Local young people seeking to make some money this summer and beyond are invited to a special Youth Job and Resource Fair, sponsored by Ramsey County Workforce Solutions. The event is geared toward workers between the ages of 14 and 24.
The job fair will be held at the Maplewood Mall this Saturday, May 13, from noon to 2 p.m. Participants should come to the Sears Hallway in the mall’s lower level where they will meet more than a dozen local employers who are eager to connect with job-seeking youth.
Ramsey County has selected employers who are targeting workers who are looking for their very first jobs in addition to those who want to hire more experienced workers.
“It’s the right time of year for this. A lot of young people are looking for what’s next for them as they transition out of the school year,” said Ling Becker, Ramsey County Workforce director.
The Youth Job and Resource Fair is aimed at setting up immediate face-to-face meetings between job hunters and employers so that young applicants don’t face the frustration of filling out online applications, hitting submit, and then never hearing back.
“A lot of jobs traditionally held by young people were cut during the pandemic. COVID-19 disrupted school and learning for a lot of our young people; they lost their ability to make career connections and set up internships,” Becker added. “We’re stepping up to give them connections and networks to help them re-engage.”
With Minnesota’s unemployment rate holding at record low levels, the economy is relying on more young workers to fill the gap. Currently, 12.6 percent of the Twin Cities’ workforce is under the age of 25.
“We know that unemployment in BIPOC communities continues to be higher and it’s also higher for young people from diverse communities,” said Rachael Molenaar, planner for Ramsey County Workforce Solutions. “It’s really important that we target those groups with opportunities at supportive workplaces where young workers will thrive and grow in confidence.”
The opportunities include hourly positions in retail, food service, hospitality, and city and park and rec positions that rely on youth to fill seasonal day camps and outdoor programming. Most of the jobs pay at least $15 an hour.
In addition to meeting potential employers and finding a job, young job searchers are sure to have a good time when they stop by. They will be treated to a chair massage and get a chance to greet canine welcomer Huxley.
Attendees will also receive a goodie bag and a flower that they can give to anyone they want to honor on Mother’s Day.
Because job seeking can be intimidating, young people have the incentive to bring a mentor or caring adult with them. The first 50 attendees and their adult mentors will each receive a $10 gift card from Spire Credit Union.
This event is co-hosted by Ramsey County Workforce Solutions, ISDs 621, 622, 623, and 624, Maplewood Mall, Marnita’s Table, MHealth Fairview, Tubman Family Services and the Suburban Ramsey Family Collaborative.
The Youth Job and Resource Fair will take place on Saturday, May 13, from noon to 2 pm at Maplewood Mall, lower level, Sears hallway, 3001 White Bear Avenue in St. Paul. For more info, visit www.RamseyCounty.us/YouthJobFair.
Support Black local news
Help amplify Black voices by donating to the MSR. Your contribution enables critical coverage of issues affecting the community and empowers authentic storytelling.