Jobs and Jabs

Good morning neighbors and happy June,

I am reaching out today to provide a resource for those in the 6^th District and beyond that might be looking for work. We have job opportunities, internships, and new openings in many of our communities across the county.

If you are 16 or older and looking for a new career, some extra money, or working while learning a new skill, below are some local options:

Hiring our Heroes: This program is run through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and JBLM and looks to partners and spouses of current military members looking to get back to work or start something new. It is an innovative learning program with DoD (Department of Defense) Skill Bridge opportunities allowing service members, military spouses, and caregivers to spend six or 12 weeks, respectively, in the civilian workforce. The professional development prepares candidates for smooth transitions into meaningful careers. Participating corporations benefit by gaining access to the best and brightest military talent. Applications are open now. You can learn more at: HiringOurHeros.org/fellowships or email Sonia Garza for specific questions.

WorkForce Central: Recently through the county’s ARPA fund appropriations, Council allocated funds to WorkForce Central – a local agency helps displaced workers and those looking for reskilling to try a new pathway. They have a variety of programs, and I have found that their data and resources provide a lot of first steps. So, take a look at their website, you never know what is out there unless you look. WorkForce Central

Local Governments & Organizations: Several of our local cities and towns along with Pierce County are looking for qualified seasonal and full-time employees. Some of these jobs are perfect for young people looking for work between school years, or if you find yourself unemployed and are looking for a new career, check out each of the jurisdiction’s sites.

As we come upon the halfway mark of the year, it is hard to believe that we have been in this pandemic for more than 16 months, that we have lost almost 600 lives in Pierce County, that we have seen so many individuals and families impacted by loss of income, loss of employment, loss of child care or access to school. We are not out of it yet, and I will continue to advocate for those that CAN, to please get vaccinated. There are trends now in our county and state that show rising numbers of outbreaks and cases specifically in our communities that have the lowest vaccination rates.

We are all trying to figure out our new normal. I am seeing signs of what that looks like because I am seeing people’s faces, seeing pictures of extended families and friends getting together after a long separation. Please remember that COVID-19 is still here.
If not vaccinated, please consider doing so!

And if you’ve been on the fence, Alaska Airlines and the Washington Hospitality Association are offering the ultimate incentive. For people who get vaccinated at planned pop-up vaccination sites in Pierce County, they will be entered into a drawing to win two round-trip vouchers for anywhere Alaska flies.

The pop-up clinics are located at various restaurants throughout the county, but specifically in District 6 the first event is Wednesday, June 2 from 4-7 p.m. at Carrs Restaurant, 11006 Bridgeport Way SW in Lakewood. Grab some dinner, (in-person or to-go) and get your shot all at one time. A second event is planned this week for Friday, June 4 from 4-7 p.m. at Paradise Lanes, 12505 Pacific Avenue South in Tacoma.

Learn more about these pop-up clinics at Pierce County restaurants at getvaxxedwa.com. You can also learn about other vaccination opportunities at the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department website: VaxToTheFuture.

Stay safe, mask up, get vaccinated and make sure to take care of yourself.