Naperville career center holds fundraiser to help job seekers

With the current economic downturn, the Community Career Center in Naperville is busier than ever providing free services to job seekers.

But the center - which provides training, career counseling and computer availability to anyone seeking employment - is asking for help too.

Its 12th annual fundraiser, "Celebrating the Olympic Spirit" on Aug. 27, offers more than a chance to sip sangria and enjoy Spanish tapas at Meson Sabika and to bid at a silent auction and win a raffle prize.

The fundraiser provides about a quarter of the center's support, which otherwise is contributed by United Way, local service clubs and churches.

"We're hoping to raise $40,000," Executive Director Amy Webber said.

The money goes to provide job seekers training in resume writing, interviewing skills, job search strategy and career transition. One-on-one sessions are conducted by volunteers, many of them professionals in the field.

Employment seekers also can network at a job club, check on job openings, and use the center's computers to conduct their search or learn new programs.

"We're having far more people utilize our work stations," Webber said. "We're seeing quite a few people."

The center, which serves clients from Naperville and many communities in the DuPage County area, has seen a 15 percent increase in traffic in the last six months. The center had more than 4,200 visitors in the fiscal year that ended June 30, and sees about 85 new job seekers a month.

Webber said many of the new job seekers are professionals.

"We're seeing more of the top tier people let go," she said.

Job seekers who are using the center's services can attend the fundraiser for half the $75 ticket price.

"One hundred percent goes for the job seeker," Webber said.

The fundraiser also offers a good opportunity to network, as well as to bid on more than 100 silent auction items.

Webber said this year's auction features a variety of high-end sports memorabilia, including Olympic Lladro statutes, a White Sox baseball from the 2005 World Series signed by the entire team, and a Tiger Woods framed and autographed photo.

Other items up for bid include hotel stays and restaurant gift certificates.

Webber said unlike some job services, the Community Career Center doesn't serve just one segment of the population.

"We're open to anyone," she said, "and the services are free."

If you go

What: "Celebrating the Olympic Spirit," fundraiser for the Community Career Center

When: 5 to 8 p.m. Aug. 27

Where: Meson Sabika Tapas Bar and Restaurant, 1025 Aurora Ave., Naperville

Cost: $75

Info: (630) 961-5665