Are you ready to take the next step to finding a job or getting more training? Do you want to learn more about who’s hiring and where the jobs are in Seattle/King County? JobLink can help.

In January, the Seattle Housing Authority launched a newly redesigned employment and education program, JobLink, which was formerly known as the Economic Opportunities and Family Self-Sufficiency programs.

Now, in one program, tenants are paired with career coaches to find a job right away, enroll in training and education and then find a job; get a better job; or start a small business. Tenants, 18 years or older, who are living in SHA housing or Housing Choice Voucher holders are eligible to participate.

JobLink services help tenants:

• Learn about the jobs that are in demand in Seattle/King County
• Build job preparation skills, including resume writing and interviewing
• Develop an individual plan to reach job and education goals
• Learn about education and training opportunities, including funding for school
• Get help managing personal finances
• Learn about the potential for home ownership

“One of things I appreciate most about the JobLink model is that it is set up to focus on individual needs,” explained Hindia Hussein, a JobLink Career Coach. Hindia has helped five people get jobs, including Anthony, who attended the first JobLink orientation on Jan.16. According to Hindia, Anthony was very disappointed that he had been looking for work for two years.

Given his experience in construction, Hindia was able to connect Anthony with an SHA staff member who works with the construction industry. Anthony was hired in a full-time job making $43 per hour a few weeks later. “He was so happy and I was so happy,” Hindia said.

In addition to helping residents find jobs that match their skills, JobLink can also help you form new skills. By 2020, 70 percent of all jobs in Washington will require some education or training beyond high school. The major industries that are hiring include Health Care and Social Assistance, Retail, Professional/Scientific/Technical Services, Accommodation and Food Services, and Manufacturing.

It’s easy to get started. Meet the JobLink team at a weekly orientation which takes place at the following locations:

• Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at the SHA Central Office, 190 Queen Anne Ave North, and NewHolly, 7054 32nd Avenue S
• Thursdays, 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. at High Point, 6400 Sylvan Way SW, and Yesler Terrace, 120 8th Ave

To learn more about JobLink, register for an orientation session, or make an appointment with a career coach, go to seattlehousing.org/joblink, email joblink@seattlehousing.org or call 206-615.-3366.