Fremont Economic Development Corporation, in collaboration with the Upper Arkansas Tourism and Retail Sector Partnership, recently announced the creation of an online job board and career center to connect local employers with prospective employees, while providing upskilling and reskilling opportunities. By empowering local businesses in Fremont, Chaffee, Lake and Custer Counties to promote job openings within the communities they serve, the coalition hopes to create a workforce pipeline to fill the dozens of job openings across the Arkansas River Valley region.

"While upskilling and reskilling remain a top priority for the Sector Partnership, businesses
across the region continue to struggle with staffing issues so there's an obvious need for
workforce development," said Kevin Mahmalji, engagement coordinator for the Sector
Partnership. "With the support of Fremont County Economic Development Corporation, we are
pursuing a holistic approach to address the region's shortage of skilled labor."

With upskilling and reskilling resources such as Career Readiness Bootcamp, Customer Service
& Sales certification, and more, the coalition can ensure that those entering the workforce for
the first time, reentering the workforce or simply changing careers will have the skills they need
to succeed within the region's tourism, retail or food service industries.

"The road to economic recovery for the majority of small businesses within the region has been
slow and arduous. Despite a record number of job openings, business owners are falling short
of their post-pandemic staffing goals, which has resulted in fewer operating hours and less
revenue," added Rob Brown, executive director of Fremont Economic Development
Corporation. "That's why we must focus our time and energy on the staffing shortage that's
plaguing small businesses."

In addition to the collaboration with the Upper Arkansas Tourism and Retail Sector Partnership,
Fremont County Economic Development Corporation is working with Pueblo Community
College, Colorado Workforce Development Council and Colorado Workforce Centers across the
region to promote resources and facilitate training through the Lives Empowered Training
Academy - which has been made possible by a $4.1 million grant from Walmart.

Sangre de Cristo Community Care seeking volunteers to join expanded Volunteer Services Program

Sangre de Cristo Community Care is seeking volunteers to assist with expanding programs and services across Fremont County. A wide variety of opportunities exist, including bereavement support, office work, direct patient care, crafting, and more.

"As we approach the holiday season, our team is making a concerted effort to reach out to patients and families in need of additional bereavement support to offer our services and resources," said Demetria Montoya, Director of Volunteer Services. "Volunteers play a vital role at Sangre, and we are always in need of caring, compassionate volunteers to help us carry out our mission."

Volunteer opportunities are wide-ranging and flexible. Those interested in becoming bereavement support volunteers are invited to attend a special training on October 16th at the Sangre de Cristo Community Care office. Volunteers are not required to have previous training, and anyone can volunteer; opportunities are open to anyone over 18 years of age.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer for Sangre de Cristo Community Care is encouraged to visit the Cañon City office, located at 601 Greenwood Ave., or download an application at www.sangre.org/services/volunteer.