WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the West Orange Department of Senior Services. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.
The West Orange Department of Senior Services hosted its first Volunteer and Job Resource Fair for Older Adults 55+ at the West Orange Public Library on April 29.
Hosted with the goal of connecting older adults with meaningful volunteer opportunities and skill building resources, the event provided a welcoming space for attendees to engage directly with representatives from organizations offering a wide range of volunteer opportunities, information on career pathways, job training programs, certification programs, part-time and some full-time employment.
Nearly 70 adults 55+ from West Orange and neighboring communities were in attendance. In addition to networking, attendees benefited from a supportive and inclusive atmosphere that encouraged conversation, and community connection.
The fair brought together 20 diverse vendors from local government, nonprofits, businesses, educational institutions and service organizations, all who shared a common commitment to support older adults as active, valued contributors in the community.
In addition to the West Orange Department of Senior Services, the list of organizations that participated are AARP Driver Safety Program, the American Red Cross, Essex County Division of Senior Services, Essex County Medical Reserve Corp., Essex County Family Justice Center, H&R Block, Jersey Cares, NJ Performing Arts Center, Rotary Club of West Orange, Thomas Edison National Historical Park, Toni’s Kitchen, Urban League of Essex County, West Essex YMCA, WO African Heritage Organization, WO Arts Council, WO Police Athletic League, WO Suicide Advocacy Coalition, WO Women’s Club and the West Orange High School World Languages Department.
Vendors noted that the event exceeded expectations, not only in attendance but in the quality of interactions. Many attendees expressed appreciation for the chance to connect face-to-face with organizations that value their experience and contributions.
One vendor stated, “One aspect that worked well was having multiple organizations available in one location, giving attendees direct access to information, guidance, and resources. The giveaways and on-site support also helped attendees feel more comfortable asking questions and learning how to navigate available services.”
Another said, “The event did meet our expectations. In one aspect it exceeded them. The venue allowed community partners to network with each other and gain awareness of the many different ways we each serve our community.”
The event concluded with an informative presentation by the AARP Speaker Bureau on how to “Jump Start Your Job Search.”
Given the success of the fair, organizers are already exploring plans to expand future events. “There are so many resources available in our county and neighboring communities,” said Olive Ross, West Orange Senior Livability Coordinator, “and if we work collectively, we can address other key issues facing older adults, like social isolation, food insecurity, transportation challenges, access to healthcare, affordable housing, and opportunities for meaningful community engagement and lifelong learning.”
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