March Madness? Nope. March Mentors
My favorite event of the whole year is in the month of March. There are no ticket sales, no entertainment to book, no dinner to serve and no items to buy. This event is organized and facilitated by business professionals and volunteers truly dedicated to the youth of this community. This month the Post Falls Chamber Business Education Committee will partner with Post Falls High School to hold our 7th annual Reverse Job Fair.
The Reverse Job Fair started in 2007. Our first year we awarded two $500 scholarships and in 2012, 10 students earned scholarships ranging from $250 to $1,000. This event prepares high school seniors for marketing themselves to potential employers through classroom instruction and real-world interaction with local business professionals.
Class time is provided for students to prepare materials and research their career interest fields. Business professionals are sometimes invited to the class to address issues, concerns, and questions students may have about their particular area of expertise, or how to be better prepared for this event.
Up to 300 high school students present themselves to business professionals at a 2-hour event held in the auditorium at Real Life Ministries Church. They come prepared to interview with a resume, portfolio and presentation board. Interview time is approximately 10 minutes. Each student experiences 4-5 interviews. Students are matched to business professionals based on their career interests. The business professionals evaluate each student and feedback is given to the instructors, who share with the students.
Our event will be held on Wednesday, March 27 from 11:30-1:30 and we are seeking professionals to "interview" students. Everyone is invited to volunteer, but professionals in the medical/health care, arts/communications, engineering/industrial systems and human resources are practically sought. If you have experience from your past or are currently serving in one of the above mentioned career sectors, please consider participating this year. I promise you an amazing experience. Brochures are available at the chamber, 201 E. 4th Ave., Post Falls.
If you are looking for a fun night out, you won't want to miss the 3rd annual "Shooting for Success" game night at Center Target Sports on Friday, March 22. CTS has partnered with Buck Knives and Cabela's to bring you a great evening of sportsmanship and competition for the whole family. $2,000 in prizes will be given away throughout the evening. Proceeds from this event benefit tourism in Post Falls. Details can be found on our website at www.postfallschamber.com
For a complete list of programs and events, visit our website or call us at (208) 773-5016.
Pam Houser is president and CEO of the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce.