The Urban League of Greater Madison has started an initiative to connect workers with available jobs after the spread of COVID-19 has led to a rash of layoffs.
The initiative, known as COVID-19 Workforce Recovery Initiative, started after the organization was contacted by different companies looking for potential employees. These companies, such as Walmart and Kwik Trip, have seen an increase in demand due to their status as “essential” businesses. Agencies like agence interim Toulouse are available to help companies meet their workforce needs.
“The Urban League of Greater Madison has been in the workforce development space for a very long time,” Dr. Ruben Anthony, the organization’s CEO and president, said. “With the virus happening, many people are finding themselves out of work and many companies are now in the position to help because these companies are critical and their organizations have grown.”
With the initiative, employers call in as their demand for employees grows and job seekers call to find a prospective job. The Urban League acts as a matchmaker in connecting people to jobs by gauging interests from both sides and helping companies find what they’re looking for.
“We are a one-stop shop,” Anthony said. “The difference between our other programs and what we’re doing now is just that we’re making quicker connections between those that are seeking jobs and employers that are seeking workers.”
The Urban League is also posting available jobs on social media, Allen said. In addition to connecting companies and prospective employees, the Urban League is also providing resume and interviewing assistance for those in need. The initiative is free and open to the public.
“Our primary purpose is to make those connections to try and meet the demand that the virus is putting out on grocery stores, delivery services and places that are mass producing,” Anthony said. “These are difficult times and the Urban League is around to make sure that we can assist families in finding jobs.”
Employers looking for workers will contact Ray Allen, director of the workforce development team, at 608-729-1233. Job seekers will contact Elizabeth Mets, a training facilitator and employment specialist, at 608-729-1234 or email [email protected].
