Coconino County Career Center seeks state aid

July 24--The Coconino County Career Center is asking the Arizona Department of Economic Security for additional funds to help the 345 Walgreens employees who were told Friday they would all be out of jobs by next April, when the Flagstaff distribution center closes completely.

Career Center Director Carol Curtis said the department has asked for additional money from a special fund set aside by DES for job support programs for large layoffs. She said she didn't ask for a specific amount and was unsure how much was in the state fund.

The closing of the distribution center will result in what is believed to be the single biggest set of layoffs in the city's history.

Walgreens is offering severance packages to employees. Company spokesman James Graham declined to give any details of what the package might include.

Members of the Career Center's Rapid Response Team met with representatives from Walgreens Tuesday to identify what career services employees will need, Curtis said.

Under state plant closure notification laws, the first layoffs could not legally take place until 60 days after Friday's announcement.

Right now, the Career Center will be helping employees to update their resumes, search for new jobs, fill out applications and practice interview skills.

The department is also offering employees help with financial planning and upgrading their skills or certifications.

The department is also looking at the possibility of creating a job club for the employees, holding a hiring fair and working with local companies on possible internships.

Curtis said she is confident her department and the community will be able to meet the challenge.

Walgreens is also offering severance packages to employees. Company spokesman James Graham declined to give any details of what the package might include.

Suzanne Adams-Ockrassa can be reached at [email protected] or 556-2253.

___

(c)2014 The Arizona Daily Sun (Flagstaff, Ariz.)

Visit The Arizona Daily Sun (Flagstaff, Ariz.) at www.azdailysun.com

Distributed by MCT Information Services