Lewiston CareerCenter Wins Award for Service to Lewiston and Auburn

Lewiston, Maine - The Lewiston CareerCenter has earned Lewiston's and Auburn's Economic Achievement Award. The award recognized that the CareerCenter provides "a critical service to both local employers and job seekers, diversifying, strengthening and growing our economy," wrote Lincoln Jeffers, assistant to the administrator of the City of Lewiston. The award was presented at the Lewiston Auburn Economic Growth Council's Annual Dinner on May 22, 2012. 

The Lewiston CareerCenter is one of 12 located throughout the state. The CareerCenters form the statewide delivery network of the Bureau of Employment Services within the Maine Department of Labor.

The centers serve both employers and jobseekers and have specialists located on-site to assist veterans, youth, people with disabilities and people who are unsure of how to reconnect with employers using new technologies. People who are unemployed as well as those who want to get a better job or change careers access the centers' services.

Jeffers noted that "the CareerCenter quickly rose to the top" when considering which organizations deserved recognition with this award. He added that "[Mary LaFontaine, the Lewiston CareerCenter manager] and the CareerCenter have been integral to our business attraction efforts. … Your work with employees has strengthened our labor pool."

Commissioner of Labor Robert Winglass praised the work of the Lewiston CareerCenter. "The Lewiston CareerCenter has a top-notch team who are caring members of the community." He added, "They understand that businesses need a strong workforce to compete in today's economy." The Award presentation reads, "‘The Lewiston CareerCenter … has played a critical role in helping attract new business to the area, help local businesses meet their staffing needs, and help residents secure employment or freshen up their skill sets. They organize and host job fairs, can assist with recruitment and provide access to state and federal training programs and tax credits."

It goes on to recognize the active role the CareerCenter plays in recruitment efforts and assisting businesses considering locating by providing an understanding of the local labor force, its strengths and capacities. "The cities are pleased to recognize and celebrate the critical role that the CareerCenter plays in serving the employment needs of local residents and businesses, and adding to the strength and diversity of the regional economy."

For more information about employment services available to businesses and jobseekers through Maine's CareerCenters, call at (207) 623-7981 (TTY users call Maine Relay 711) or visit www.mainecareercenter.com.