North Tidewater News

Portsmouth@Work, a project of the Portsmouth Economic Development Department, is set to launch ConnectFest, a series of career and community events aimed at linking residents with job opportunities and essential resources. The initiative begins on March 18 with a Community Job Fair at Tidewater Community College in Portsmouth. Events will continue through March and April, open to all city residents without charge.

Brian Donahue, Director of Portsmouth Economic Development, stated, “Our goal is to create a more prosperous Portsmouth for everyone, and it's vital for us to bring meaningful job and resource opportunities directly into our neighborhoods. ConnectFest is a chance for Portsmouth residents to access key resources, build connections and enhance their career paths."

The events are organized in collaboration with several community partners including the Urban League of Hampton Roads, Big Homies, C.U.T.S. YEP, the Portsmouth Police Department, the Portsmouth Health Department, Bon Secours, Connecting Communities, Fishing Point Healthcare, Sisters in Service, Stylez and Kutz School of Barbering and Cosmetology, and Community Outreach Coalition.

The first event in the series is Career ConnectFest on March 18 at TCC Portsmouth Campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where job seekers can meet nearly 50 employers from various industries such as Hampton Roads Transit and Norfolk Naval Shipyard.

Youth Career ConnectFest will follow on April 17 at The Virtual Learning Center. It targets young job seekers aged 15½ to 21 years old offering career opportunities and mentorships.

Resource ConnectFest is scheduled for April 23 at Fountain Park and April 30 at Dale Homes/Lexington Place from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., featuring local organizations providing information on mental health services and workforce development.

For additional details about these events, visit PortsmouthAtWork.com