By Elise Prezant, JFS Career Counselor
The end of the pandemic is hopefully in sight, the economy is improving, the job market is doing better, unemployment rates are on the decline. So, are career counselors frantically updating their own resumes and exploring new careers? Not quite. Unfortunately, even in better times, there are still many people in our community who are struggling with their job search or employment situation. Why is that?
The unemployment rate nationally is 4.8% however the rate in New Jersey is 7.2 %, reflective of how hard the Garden State has been hit by the pandemic compared to other parts of the nation. We also live in an area of the country that has one of the highest costs of living. In addition, many of the jobs available, are not suitable for every job seeker and often do not pay a livable wage for this area. In fact, over 50% of jobs in NJ pay less than $20/hour.
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There are, of course, other “fast-growing” jobs with higher annual wages, however, many require specific training, licensing, or degrees. This is not an option for job seekers who cannot afford the time or expense of going back to school. The myriad of part-time, 2nd or 3rd shift jobs, seasonal or contract positions that are routinely available are also not practical for many.
Younger job seekers, surprisingly, are also struggling, but often for a different reason. A recent study by Mind Share Partners revealed that half of the millennials and 75% of Gen Zers have left a job for mental health reasons. While there are a number of reasons cited for this disturbing trend, it is clear that those on the other end of the job search spectrum have also been in need of support in finding new jobs and even a change of careers.
At Jewish Family Service of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties, Career Services are available for anyone in the community who is unemployed, underemployed or seeking a career change. Individual career counseling, as well as job search groups, offer advice on job search techniques, interviewing skills, resumes and much more. If you are a recent college graduate, a stay-at-home mother needing to return to the workforce, a recently laid off professional who hasn’t had to look for a job in 30 years, or anyone else in need of job search assistance JFS is here to help. If you would like more information about the Career Services program, contact Elise Prezant at 908-725-7799 x108 eprezant@JewishFamilySvc.org.
JFS is a not for profit, nonsectarian social service agency serving the needs of individuals and families in Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties since 1980. JFS is committed to serving the needs of the entire community and offers a continuum of programs and services. Licensed clinical social workers provide individual, couple and family counseling as well as geriatric assessments, supportive counseling and case management services for home bound elderly. The Family Mentor Program recruits, trains and matches volunteers with vulnerable young families or with elderly persons for friendly, supportive, in-home visits; Families with children with special needs are assisted through social groups, parent groups and through the Family Mentor Program. Ohr Tikvah-Light of Hope Jewish Healing Services offers presentations, support groups, and individual spiritual counseling to address the health, wellness and healing needs of the community. All information is confidential. Many programs are at no cost, on a sliding fee scale or payable through third party insurance. If you are interested in learning more about JFS’ programs, please contact us at (908)725-7799, email us at Admin@JewishFamilySvc.org, visit our website: www.JewishFamilySvc.org and like us on Facebook. Jewish Family Service of SHW, Inc. 150-A West High Street, Somerville, NJ 08876.