Skagit County celebrates opening of new community resource - March 16, 2006

06-023

Media contacts: Gary Smith, 360-676-3241
Rafeeka Gafoor, 360-676-3220

MOUNT VERNON – Skagit County businesses and job seekers are invited to celebrate the grand opening of WorkSource Skagit, a state-of-the-art, full-service employment center. 

The facility is located at 2005 E. College Way in Mount Vernon.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 4 p.m. on Friday, March 24, followed by refreshments and tours of the new facility until 6:30 p.m.  Skagit Valley College also will unveil the center’s new entry sign, which was designed and manufactured by students in the college’s welding-technology program.  

“This facility represents a great new advantage for Skagit County,” said Brian Humphrey, administrator for the Skagit County Workforce Development Council.  “The WorkSource building provides employment and training resources all in one place, while offering the community an exceptional location for business meetings, recruiting and training.” 

WorkSource is a partnership of government agencies, community colleges and nonprofit organizations that offer services for job seekers and businesses. 

At WorkSource, job seekers can use computers, phones, copiers and fax machines, get work referrals and resume help, and attend career workshops and connect with employers. They also can search job listings and post their resumes online.

Employers can take advantage of computerized job matching, assistance with recruitment and layoffs, and information on wages, training and tax credits. 

“Our job is to offer all the options in one place and tailor services to each person or business that comes through our door,” said Carlos Canty of the state’s Employment Security Department.  “With the number of organizations now housed at WorkSource Skagit, we are well positioned to handle the needs directly from this new facility.”

The new center serves more than 200 businesses and 1,500 job seekers each month.  Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The phone number is (360) 416-3600.

WorkSource Northwest partners include the Workforce Development Council, Employment Security Department, Department of Social and Health Services and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Skagit Valley College, Whatcom Community College, Bellingham Technical College, Job Corps, OIC of Washington, Economic Development Association of Skagit County and the Skagit County Community Action Agency.

Web Links
Resources for job seekers and businesses, including a searchable database of job listings

Apply for benefits online 24 hours a day or by phone from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, except state holidays

Information on occupations, wages and other economic trends