Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson partnered with the New York State Department of Labor and the Bronx County Criminal and Family Court to hold the Future Focus Bronx job and resource fair on Wednesday, April 29, at the Bronx County Criminal and Family Court.
The event brought together employers, workforce development organizations and community partners in an effort to expand access to employment opportunities and support services for Bronx residents.
Among the job and resource fair’s central focuses were supporting re-entry populations and underserved job seekers, as well as connecting the more than 1,000 attendees to re-entry-friendly employers and organizations committed to second chances.
Over two dozen employers and community partners were represented at the Future Focus Bronx job and resource fair. Each of them offered pathways to long-term, sustainable careers.
“Access to opportunity should never be out of reach, especially for those working to rebuild and move forward,” Gibson said.
“Through our Future Focus Bronx initiative, we are connecting our residents to the tools, resources and employers that can help them take that next step. Thank you to the New York State Department of Labor, Bronx County Criminal and Family Court and all of our participating employers and organizations for their commitment to creating real pathways to economic stability and second chances in our borough.”
In addition to Gibson, multiple other representatives from partnering agencies also delivered remarks at the event to highlight the importance of collaboration in strengthening workforce pipelines and ensuring all Bronx residents have equitable access to opportunities.
“I’m incredibly proud to be part of bringing this first reentry-friendly job and resource fair to the Family and Criminal Courts,” Bronx County Criminal Court Supervising Judge Hon. Yadhira Gonzalez-Taylor said. “This job fair is scheduled to purposefully coincide with recognizing Second Chances Month on April 29. It’s been a rewarding and inspiring experience to work on behalf of Bronx Criminal Court alongside the Family Court, the Borough President’s Office and the New York State Department of Labor, to open doors to new opportunities for justice-impacted Bronxites and the community at large.”
Other features of the Future Focus Bronx job and resource fair included a lunchtime program focused on re-entry support and opportunities for a fresh start, as well as hands-on career services, such as resume and interview guidance.
Free professional headshots were also provided for those in attendance, to be included in their resumes and LinkedIn profiles. Additionally, Connie’s Closet provided access to clothing resources to support job readiness.
Those interested in learning more about future employment fairs can contact the Bronx Borough President’s Office by calling them at (718)-590-3500 or going to their website at bronxboropres.nyc.gov.
