Portsmouth’s ‘ConnectFest’ provides job resources to underserved communities

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — Portsmouth@Work, a group that offers help with job training, training programs and more, is offering an opportunity to connect city families with practical resources.

The group’s first “ConnectFest” was held on August 7. However, there are two more festivals in town taking place over the next two weeks.

Nahla Saleh, Portsmouth’s workforce development manager, says she and Portsmouth Police Chief Stephen Jenkins have noticed that when programs are in one location, transportation could be an issue. They saw firsthand that residents can’t get to certain events.

Follow related coverage: Portsmouth leaders see ‘blue economy’ as key to city’s future success

Portsmouth leaders see the ‘blue economy’ as key to the city’s future success

To ensure that everyone who wants to participate, the organizers have chosen three locations to hold the festival: Dale Homes, Southside and London Oaks. Workforce development leaders say the idea was a collaborative effort with Chief Jenkins to remove barriers in those neighborhoods.

“He saw the need in those communities because of the violence that was occurring and the increase in violence over the years. We think it’s a benefit for the residents of those different locations to learn about the opportunities,” Saleh said. “We will have food and games for families too. We try to have more things for families and children to have something to do.”

At the festival, attendees can speak one-on-one with local employers.

The three neighborhoods have been hit hard by gun violence. Organizers hope that people in these neighborhoods will have the opportunity to follow a positive path.

Nonprofits like the YWCA and United Way and even first responders will be at the festival. City leaders say they will be fully paid for job opportunities and certification courses.

In addition to career-enhancing resources, ConnectFest organizers offer free school supplies before the school year.

Details for the remaining two ConnectFests are as follows:

• Wednesday, August 14th from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Southside Gardens, 707 7th St
• Wednesday 21 August 11am to 2pm at London Oaks, 2680 High Street

For more information, click here.