Securing Futures: James Hunter and Seattle Housing Authority's JobLink Program
On “The Day With Trae” last month, James Hunter, the Employer Engagement Broker at Seattle Housing Authority (SHA), illuminated the critical work his organization is doing to connect residents with meaningful employment. Hunter's passion for his role is evident as he discusses SHA's comprehensive JobLink program and an upcoming career fair on Friday, October 10 designed to genuinely uplift the community.
The JobLink program is a cornerstone of SHA's commitment to resident empowerment. It offers a robust suite of services, including resume writing, mock interviews, and access to career and college navigators, all aimed at equipping residents for success. Hunter's specific focus is on forging strong relationships with employers, particularly within city and county sectors, to secure high-quality jobs that offer long-term financial stability and equity. As he explained, these are positions that "help build equity and they help families build stronger and they have [a] good retirement system."
Hunter highlighted the program's dedication to meeting residents where they are at, highlighting employment gaps as a significant obstacle for people to overcome. His team works to help individuals identify and leverage their transferable skills, ensuring that every experience can be an asset. He recounted how rewarding it is to help someone who "hasn't worked in one year, five years, or 10 years" to see that their past activities can be presented as valuable skills to potential employers. This personalized support system is crucial for bridging the divide between residents and opportunities.
A major upcoming event showcasing SHA's dedication is the career fair on October 10 at the New Holly Gathering Hall. Unlike larger, often overwhelming job fairs, this event is curated to feature no more than 20 vested employers who are committed to hiring from within the SHA population. Hunter stressed the importance of having "the right employers in the room," ensuring higher engagement and better outcomes for residents. This warm and inviting environment will include employer concierges to guide attendees, dedicated resume writing rooms, and on-site resume printing.
Hunter's approach to employer engagement is rooted in tenacity and respect. He shared that building these relationships can take months. His persistence, coupled with a deep understanding of employers' busy schedules, has fostered fruitful collaborations that directly benefit SHA residents.
The upcoming career fair, open to both SHA residents and the public, is a significant opportunity for individuals seeking career advancement. From entry-level positions to roles for professionals like attorneys, the fair aims to serve a wide range of job seekers. Hunter passionately urged potential attendees to "give us an opportunity to earn your business," underscoring the vital role of community support in the program's continued success. Hunter and the Seattle Housing Authority are not just connecting people to jobs; they are fostering economic stability and empowering individuals to build thriving lives.
RSVP to the career fair on Friday, October 10 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 7054 32nd Ave S on Eventbrite.
