Park district, KidsMatter sponsor job fair

Residents seeking summer, seasonal or year-round part-time employment are invited to learn more about job opportunities at roughly 50 area businesses at a job fair co-hosted by Naperville Park District and KidsMatter.

The fair will be from 9 a.m. until noon Saturday, Jan. 5, at the park district's Fort Hill Activity Center, 20 Fort Hill Drive in Naperville.

The fair is free and intended for a variety of jobseekers, from high school students 15 and older to senior citizens.

The park district and Naperville-based KidsMatter are combining what formerly were two separate job fairs into one event, with positions available not only at the park district but also at a variety of local businesses.

"We are holding the job fair early in January to give college students who are home on winter break an opportunity to begin seeking summer employment and internships," said Kamala Martinez, CEO and executive director of KidsMatter.

"KidsMatter is planning to offer mock interviews, resume building and career conversations for additional workforce preparation."

In addition to targeting both college and high school students, the 2019 Job Fair will include opportunities for retirees and other adults seeking part-time work.

For example, park maintenance and golf course maintenance positions at the park district can be ideal for retirees who are looking for a flexible schedule.

Lifeguard positions at Centennial Beach may be attractive to firefighters and others who are available for the entire season. For the 2019 season, lifeguard positions will be structured in shorter shifts with the option of shallow water only positions or full facility positions.

"We are happy to partner with KidsMatter to expand the Job Fair to include more opportunities and resources to assist jobseekers and to get an early start in filling many seasonal positions," said Katie Sepe, park district director of human resources.