WICHITA FALLS, Texas (KAUZ) – For some job seekers, finding employment can be difficult because of past experiences or other barriers. <\/p>\n
Workforce Solutions North Texas held a Second Chance Job Fair at Sikes Senter Mall Thursday, bringing together about 50 businesses willing to consider applicants who may face challenges finding work. <\/p>\n
Hours before the job fair began, Workforce Solutions North Texas held a pre-event service focused on preparing job seekers for the hiring process. <\/p>\n
The services were available to people who have faced injuries, recently lost their jobs, struggled with addiction, served convictions or faced other barriers to employment. <\/p>\n
The organization offered interview clothing assistance, professional haircuts, resume printing and workshops focused on interview skills. <\/p>\n
\u201cTo have your best chance of success, you need to be prepared. How to do an interview, to dress appropriately. Well, this event can be life-changing. I mean, you come out here and you find that second chance opportunity; it could change your whole life,\u201d Tom Ostovich with Workforce Solutions North Texas said. <\/p>\n
Bill Vandestreek, who has a conviction on his record, attended the event hoping to find a job that would allow him to support himself and his family while caring for his mother. <\/p>\n
\u201cIt would mean a lot because I\u2019m having to take care of my mother at the same time. If I can find a job that\u2019s applicable for me and my family, then I will be able to work and take care of the household rather than have to take care of her for full time. It\u2019s a rare opportunity and a great chance for a second start, just like it says,\u201d Vandestreek said. <\/p>\n
Ostovich said providing those second chances can benefit not only individuals looking for work, but the entire community. <\/p>\n
\u201cThose individuals, it can be difficult because they\u2019ve been used to hearing no a lot when they apply for jobs. So that\u2019s why, here we try to bring all those employers together. All the employers we have here today are willing to hire a second chance. It\u2019s also good for our community, you know, because we want to have more people to work. The more people we have to work, it\u2019s just overall win-win for our community,\u201d Ostovich said. <\/p>\n
Officials said about 150 people who attended last year\u2019s event walked away with new jobs. <\/p>\n