Jenny White
Director of Department of Employment and Economic Development
The SARPC Employment and Economic Development Services Department (EEDS) is responsible for programs that promote Workforce Development and the economy of the SARPC Region. Programs include:
- Small Business Revolving Loan Fund
- Older Worker Program
- Mature Staffing Services
- Annual Jobs Fair and Business Expo
- Advocacy on workforce and economic development issues
The Small Business Revolving Loan Fund provides financing for small and medium size businesses that will create jobs through new business startup or expansions. Loan proceeds may be used to finance land, building, equipment and working capital. Low interest rates and attractive terms are available to borrowers for projects that will create new jobs. DOWNLOAD THE FORM HERE
The Older Worker Program provides part time employment and on the job training for unemployed, low income individuals 55 and older through the Senior Community Service Employment Program. Participants earn while training and working at host agencies. Host Agencies are government offices or 501 C-3 Non-profit Organizations. Funding for the Older Worker Program comes from the Alabama Department of Senior Services and the US Department of Labor.
Mature Staffing Services (MSS) is a local program that hires and provides part-time temporary and seasonal employees to SARPC’s member governments and public agencies in the region. This SARPC Employment and Economic Development Services Department has operated the Mature Staffing Services since 1999. MSS employees may be any age with a “mature work ethic”.
SARPC’s Annual Jobs Fair and Business Expo is the largest and oldest Job Fair in the region. First held in 1998, the event regularly attracts over 3000 job seekers and 90 to 120 employers and training providers. Seminars on Interviewing Skills, Resume Development and other Job Search topics are part of the event.
SARPC’s Employment and Economic Development Services Department provides support and advocacy for Economic Development and Workforce organizations and issues in the region. The SARPC EEDS regularly partners with the Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council, the One Stop Career Centers, Workforce Development Boards and area Chambers of Commerce.
For more information on the workforce and economic development programs, contact Jenny White, Director of Employment and Economic Development Services at jennywhite@sarpc.org or call 251-652-0585.