Residents of west Dayton, Jefferson Township, New Lebanon, Trotwood, and other nearby communities have a new place to obtain job
search help, funding for training, and space for community events. Federal, state, and county officials cut the ribbon on the Employment Opportunity Center on Wednesday, Oct. 27.
The new facility, built in the Westown Shopping Center at 4303 W. Third St., will give people access to job search help, training opportunities, free community spaces, and Montgomery County’s youth mentoring programs.
“This facility is an investment in our residents,” said Montgomery County Commission President Judy Dodge. “It will make many of our services easier to access for those located in the west Dayton, Montgomery County corridor.”
The county currently administers federal training funds that pay for up to $15,000 in education for qualifying individuals. Those funds will be available through this new facility as well.
“It’s incredibly important to ensure everyone has access to our services,” said Montgomery County Commissioner Carolyn Rice. “We want people to have the chance to gain new skills and be successful, no matter where their passion takes them.”
The center will house more than county services. Through partnerships with Sinclair Community College and Miami Valley Career Technology Center, there will be educational opportunities as well.
The county said these partnerships are what make the Employment Opportunity Center unique.
“Although it’s a major part of it, this isn’t just a place to help you find a job,” said Montgomery County Commissioner Debbie Lieberman. “People will be able to address needs ranging from getting a GED, to being trained in an in-demand field, to receiving assistance with career placement. This is a special project that will provide immense benefits to residents of west Dayton.”
Sinclair is bringing courses from its Computer and Information Systems department to provide training in the growing field of Information Technology.
“Sinclair Community College is committed to meeting the needs of residents of this community,” added Dr. Steve Johnson, President, Sinclair Community College. “We are proud to be a part of this initiative where we can deliver high quality credentials that lead to meaningful careers.”
Miami Valley CTC will hold training from its Aspire program, aimed at educating adults for high school equivalency credentials.
“We are thrilled to be in partnership with Montgomery County to provide another location where adult education services, especially Aspire, are offered close to those who can take advantage of the program,” said MVCTC Superintendent Nick Weldy. “We are proud to be part of the solution as the county continues to assist those who need to obtain their high school graduation credentials, find a job, and receive training to enhance their skill set.”
For more information on job search help, services for businesses, and job training grants, visit www.TheJobCenter.org or call (937) 225-5627.