Elgin Community College's Workforce Development Office offers virtual unemployment services

With the COVID-19 pandemic reducing work hours and shuttering businesses, unemployment rates are up across the country. For those who have unexpectedly found themselves on the job hunt, Elgin Community College's Workforce Development office is here to help.

"The Workforce Development team is committed to helping the residents of our community get through this difficult time," said Anne Hauca, dean of workforce development and continuing education. "We are here to help you get back to work as quickly as possible."

Employment Transitions Coordinator Linda Brubaker has taken her job search assistance online.

Brubaker is still running her weekly "Monday Lunch-N-Learn" sessions virtually, and is available for one-on-one sessions both virtually and by telephone. All of these services are free and available to everyone in the community.

"I've been meeting with a growing number of people," Brubaker said. "One of the things I've noticed is that there is an increased need just to talk, to ask questions about unemployment, jobs, and just how (individuals) are feeling, mentally and physically.

Brubaker is also putting together new programming to be held on a virtual platform.

Those interested in attending a virtual session or speaking with her one-on-one can email lbrubaker@elgin.edu for more information.

Additionally, Workforce Development has remote services available for eligible youth, age 16 to 24, through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.

Services include job search and referral assistance, resume development and interviewing skills, transportation assistance, paid work experience, and tuition, books, and fees to support eligible participants.

Kane County residents should reach out to Jackie Espinoza at jespinoza@elgin.edu.

Cook County residents should reach out to Vicki Miranda at vmiranda@elgin.edu.

Learn more about all the services provided by the Workforce Development office at elgin.edu/life-at-ecc/services-resources/unemployed-resources/.