City Joins with Community Partners to Host Regional Job Fair on February 14

Love isn't the only thing in the air this Valentine's Day; opportunity is too! The City is pleased to announce its collaboration with Grey County and other community partners to play cupid in your career journey on Wednesday, February 14. Whether you're a job seeker, a recent graduate, or an employer, find your perfect professional match at the 2024 Regional Job Fair this Valentine's Day at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre in Owen Sound from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

The City is committed to working with our regional partners to grow local industries, support workforce development, and plan for a thriving and prosperous future here in Owen Sound. 

More than 100 employers throughout our region are expected to attend and showcase their businesses and current job opportunities. Several full-time, part-time, and seasonal positions will be available, supporting various sectors across the region. 

Employers can still register for a booth online at Grey.ca/JobFair. 

Grey County and its partners have increased our marketing reach this year to attract additional job seekers from outside the region. Partners are also hosting a bus tour with Grey Bruce Local Immigration Partnership and the Newcomer Centre of Peel through the Rural Employment Initiative (REI). REI works with clients living in the GTA and looking to relocate to a rural community. We expect around 30+ job seekers from the GTA to join us at the job fair and meet our local employers. Most job seekers are skilled professionals, but some are looking for entry-level positions. 

Registration is not required for job seekers to participate. Grey County residents without transportation to the event in Owen Sound can complete a pre-registration form at Grey.ca/JobFair. They will be contacted to discuss possible transportation options. 

YMCA Employment Services plays a pivotal role in this event, providing crucial support for job seekers, from resume assistance to advice on engaging with potential employers. The job fair encourages attendees to come prepared with resumes and a readiness to discuss their experiences, with YMCA Employment Services offering pre- and post-fair support. 

The City of Owen Sound will distribute red heart stickers proclaiming "Now Hiring, Inquire Within" to local businesses seeking new employees. These stickers, available at City Hall, are designed to be placed in the windows of hiring establishments, making it immediately clear to passersby that there are job opportunities available within. This initiative aims to streamline the job search process for individuals by visually highlighting potential employers in the community. 

For more information, please contact Paul McGrath, Manager of Community & Business Development, at 519-376-4440 ext. 1254 or email pmcgrath@owensound.ca 

Quotes: 

"Supporting the growth of local industries and workforce development is one of Council’s key strategic priorities. In our role as the regional centre, the City continues to work towards a prosperous local economy. We hope that job seekers and employers across the region will attend this worthwhile event.” 

-Mayor Ian Boddy 

Quick Facts: 

• More than 100 regional employers will be attending. 
• Employers are also encouraged to sign up and find their ideal candidates at Grey.ca/JobFair 
• Space for on-the-spot interviews will be made for employers that request it.  
• YMCA Employment Services for support as you prepare for the upcoming job fair YMCAOwenSound.on.ca/Employment 1-800-265-3711. 

• The 2024 Regional Job Fair is a chance to find love in your work with no registration required for job seekers and transportation assistance available for those who need it. 

• Taking public transit? Ride Owen Sound Transit’s East Bayshore route (runs every 30 minutes) and get off at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre stop. 

-30- 

Attachments

 2024-02-05 - Media Release - City Joins with Community Partners to Host Regional Job Fair on February 14