The Freeman Community Development Corporation and the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation are teaming up to showcase employment opportunities in the Freeman community. Set to take place from 3:30-5:30 PM on Monday, October 16, the event’s format is designed to enable interested job-seekers to receive information about local businesses and available positions quickly and from the convenience of their vehicle.
Representatives from the FCDC and the DLR will meet drive-thru participants in the Freeman Shopping Center parking lot at 609 S. US Highway 81. Those participating will be handed an “Experience Freeman” bag filled with flyers provided by local businesses. A surprise bonus of “Freeman Bucks” will be tucked inside several of the bags; Freeman Bucks can be used just like cash at Freeman businesses.
Businesses are invited to utilize this opportunity to attract employees by providing a one-or two-sided flyer that will be packaged and provided to prospective employees. In addition to providing notice of open positions and information about how to apply, businesses are encouraged to also raise awareness of what their business does and also detail the monetary and non-monetary benefits and perks prospective hires can enjoy. Flyers should measure 8.5 X 11 in size, with 50 copies delivered to the development office at City Hall, 185 E. Third Street in Freeman by noon on Thursday, October 5.
For a town of just 1,300 residents, Freeman boasts an expansive array of businesses and amenities that make it a favorable place to live, work and play. With the many businesses located in Freeman come a variety of open employment positions. The drive-through event is one way of assisting those local businesses in securing the needed workforce. Similar events have been hosted in Yankton and have proven to be successful.
Julie Dykstra, business engagement/employment specialist with the SD DLR has seen advantages of the drive-thru format, not only for job-seekers who aren’t currently employed, but for those who may only be considering a possible job change. People can be apprehensive about having their current employer see them at a job fair; the drive-thru approach removes that uncomfortable aspect of a traditional job fair.
Questions about the drive-thru event may be directed to the development and marketing coordinator by calling 605.925.4444 during normal business hours.