New Beginnings: Tools and Resources for Your Next Career Move

Take the Next Step Toward Your Future. Losing a job can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a chance to explore new opportunities. At EmporiaOpportunity.com, we’re here to support you with tools and resources to help you get back on your feet. Whether you’re looking to brush up on interview skills, explore training programs, or navigate unemployment benefits, this page is your starting point.

Discover links to Kansas Works, tips for acing your next interview, and guidance for going back to college or trade school. Your next chapter starts here—let’s move forward together.

Flint Hills Technical College is prepared to serve the needs of the families in our community affected by the Tyson announcement. FHTC offers morning, afternoon, evening and online classes for one-year certificate or two-year associate degree programs, including 8- to 10-week training options, such as a Commercial Driver’s License course, Certified Nurse Aide and Certified Medication Aide. The College has advisors who can help a student understand these options, including Spanish-speaking staff. The FHTC Adult Education Center has support for GED, adult education, and English language learners. The College has available a variety of financial assistance options to help fund these educational and retraining needs. For more information, visit www.fhtc.edu or call (620) 343-4600. Learn More

Emporia State University Stands with You

To the hardworking individuals affected by recent changes at Tyson, we want you to know that Emporia State University is here to support you during this time of transition. We deeply value the contributions you’ve made to our community and are committed to providing helpful resources as you take the next step in your journey. Emporia State University offers courses designed to help you gain new skills, advance your education, and open doors to new opportunities.

Resources for Displaced Workers

Educational Opportunities at Emporia State University

• Classes for Tyson Workers:
  • Programs available in high-demand fields like business, healthcare, education, and technology.
  • General Microsoft Office training.
  • Flexible schedules, including online and evening options, to accommodate your needs.
  • Academic advisors available to help you choose the right program.
• Financial Aid and Scholarships:
  • Assistance is available to help cover additional costs. Our financial aid office is ready to work with you to identify resources

For more information, visit Emporia State University’s website at emporia.edu or contact the Admissions Office at [email protected] or 620-341-5465.

KANSASWORKS Southeast is here to help job seekers by offering a wide range of career services to guide workers through the job market, overcome challenges, and reach their career goals. Our friendly and experienced staff at the Emporia Workforce Center are ready to assist with things like exploring career options, job searching, creating resumes and cover letters, preparing for interviews, using technology and resources, and much more. All of these services are available either in-person or online to meet your needs.

For more information about the career services we offer, click on the link below:

https://sekworks.org/jobseekers/

If you’ve been laid off, KANSASWORKS Southeast can offer support throughout your career transition. We provide a range of enhanced services, for individuals facing loss of employment and meeting specific eligibility requirements. These services include an individualized employment plan that may include tuition assistance for in-demand job training and “Earn-and-Learn” opportunities like On-the-Job Training. Supportive Services such as transportation and childcare assistance may be available in coordination with a participant’s employment plan. These programs, funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), include personalized case management to guide you through your training and ensure long-term career success.

Visit the link to contact the Emporia Workforce Center and get connected with a Career Advisor who can help you start your next career path.

CareerOneStop offers a wealth of resources to guide you through every stage of your career journey. From job search tools and resume advice to training programs and certifications, the site is designed to help you succeed. Explore tools to assess your skills, learn about high-demand careers, and connect with local employment services. Whether you’re starting over or advancing your career, CareerOneStop is your partner in success.

Create an Account to Job Search & More Now

At CrossWinds Counseling and Wellness, we understand that the recent news of job loss in our community has created a wave of uncertainty, stress, and emotional challenges for many individuals and families. Losing a job can be a profoundly destabilizing experience, impacting mental health, financial stability, and one’s sense of purpose.

We want you to know that you are not alone during this time. Our team is here to provide support, resources, and a listening ear as you navigate these challenges.

Here are some ways we can help:

• Counseling Services: We offer individual, group, and family counseling to address feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, and grief related to job loss.
• Stress Management Workshops: Join sessions focused on coping strategies, mindfulness, and building resilience.
• Community Resource Guidance: Our staff can connect you with local resources, such as unemployment assistance, financial planning, and job training programs.

It’s important to prioritize your mental health and well-being during this time of transition. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to us at 620.343.2211 or through www.crosswindsks.org.

Our community is strongest when we support one another. Together, we can overcome these challenges and build a path forward.

Applying for unemployment benefits can provide crucial financial support while you plan your next career move. Kansas offers resources to help you understand your eligibility, file a claim, and manage benefits. Taking this step allows you to focus on exploring new opportunities and building a stronger future. Use the links below to access helpful Kansas unemployment information and get started today.

When facing job loss, it’s essential to focus on practical steps to navigate the transition. Process your emotions and seek support, inform your family, and apply for unemployment benefits promptly. Assess your health insurance options and financial situation by reviewing your budget and deciding what to do with your 401(k). Begin planning for your future career by updating your resume, exploring professional development, and networking. Stay organized, positive, and proactive as you search for your next opportunity.

According to employment site, Indeed.com here are eighteen steps to take on this journey:

Here are the 18 steps to take after losing your job:

• Process your emotions and seek support.
• Inform family and discuss next steps.
• Apply for unemployment benefits.
• Review your health insurance options.
• Decide what to do with your 401(k).
• Create a budget to manage finances.
• Set a daily schedule to stay productive.
• Reflect on your desired career path.
• Evaluate your online presence.

• Update your resume for job applications.
• Identify references for future applications.
• Reach out to your network for support.
• Focus your job search on relevant roles.
• Use a variety of job search methods.
• Invest in professional development.
• Practice interview techniques.
• Be prepared to address your job loss.
• Stay motivated and positive throughout the process.

Explore opportunities with Emporia Area Major Employers to find your next career path.

EMPORIA WORKFORCE CENTER

Business Address

215 W. 6th Ave., Suite 107
Emporia, KS 66801
(620) 342-3355
(620) 342-2806 Fax

Business Hours

Monday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m

The United Way of Flint Hills

The United Way of the Flint Hills is here to help connect individuals to vital resources and support services. One of the best-kept secrets is 211, a resource hotline funded by United Way that can connect anyone to services available in their area, both throughout Kansas and across the U.S. Additionally, individuals can contact our office directly at 620-342-7564, where we are happy to assist in navigating the best options for help. Beyond these resources, we will also provide a comprehensive list of our community partners (CPs), outlining the types of assistance they offer and the best ways to reach them. Stay tuned for this detailed list, which will be available soon. Visit Our Site

Upcoming Job Fairs

Registration is open for the State of Kansas Agencies- Government Positions Virtual Job Fair on December 11, 2024. Job Seekers (Attendee) and Employers (Organization) can REGISTER HERE.

Primary contacts: Rose Colunga, Office Manager, at 327 Constitution Street, phone number 620-342-3093 or Mylie Hadden, Corps Officer, for questions or information.

Our office hours at 327 Constitution Street are M-F 10 am -3 pm

Services:

Food Pantry by appointments Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons at 327 Constitution Street. ID’s or verification needed for all persons in the household. May receive food pantry once every 30 days.

Bimonthly (even numbered months) commodities on the third Wednesday of the month at 1 pm until gone. For example, the next commodity distribution date is Dec 18 at 1 pm.

Emergency Rental or Utility Assistance by appointment. Requirements are an eviction or disconnect notice. Proof of residency in Lyon County.

Salvation Army Thrift store at 520 Constitution Street for affordable clothing and household items. Hours M-Sat 10am -5:30 pm. Emergency vouchers available with referral.

Contact: 620.342.3015

Office Hours:

Monday-Thursday 8-5

Friday 8am – 12 pm

Closed most state holidays

Corner House, Inc., located in Emporia, Kansas, has been a provider of Substance Use Treatment for over 45 years. Focusing our strong commitment to high-quality evidence treatment and client-centered approach. Corner House, Inc. offers an expanded treatment service menu.

Clients needing assistance with Kansas Legal Services may call the intake line at 316-267-3975 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Resource –https://1800childrenks.org/. It is searchable by zip code and is not limited to just information for children and families. People can also call 1-800-Children or 1-800-332-6378 to talk to an actual person.

SparkWheel provides Integrated Student Supports, helping to meet students’ academic and non-academic needs in William Allen White, Logan Avenue, and Walnut Elementary Schools as well as Emporia High School. Our mission is to remove barriers and provide those we serve with the tools and resources they need to thrive, now and into the future. We envision a world where barriers do not stand in the way of possibilities.

Please contact Rachel Harrington, [email protected], 620.473.0466 for additional information.

Offering free counseling services, which include financial/credit counseling, mortgage default assistance, and tenant/landlord counseling.

**Financial and Mortgage Default Counseling**: This service is available by phone with an appointment. Please call 800-383-0217 to set up a time.

**Tenant/Landlord Counseling**: This service is also offered by phone. Clients’ names will be placed on a call log, and calls will be returned in the order they were received – 800-383-0217.

Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland provides financial assistance for memberships, uniforms, earned badges and pins and camperships. Parents can apply at Kansasgirlscouts.org.

Contact: Monica Barnett – Director – [email protected]

They provide child care for children ages 2-1/2 to 12 years

Nutrition Services – Jeri Bettge, 785-242-7200, [email protected]

Options Counseling – Arran Schlotzhauer, 785-242-7200, [email protected]

We cover Coffey and Osage County. In addition, for anyone who might live in one of our other counties we also serve AN, FR, LN, and MI counties.

Options Counseling will get the person directed to whatever program in the agency is best able to help them with their needs so that is the first place to start. If someone is 60 or over and knows they may need nutrition assistance Jeri is the point of contact.

They work with prenatal and newly delivered moms/families who are at risk of child abuse/neglect by providing weekly home visits and education on early childhood development as well as working with families to increase bonding and attachment. They also do assessments on baby’s development and offer rides to doctor’s appointments for families who don’t have transportation.

Contact Jessie Owen at 620-794-5825.

CPRF’s Equipment Fund helps clients building funding packages to purchase medical and adaptive equipment.

Contact: George Hayden

(316)651-5210 https://www.cprf.org/equipment-fund/

Email is the best way to reach the LEAP! @ ESU organization.

In terms of resources that might serve those impacted by the closing of the Tyson plant, LEAP doesn’t have much to offer for immediate assistance given their area of focus. Our organization focuses mainly on providing interactive educational workshops that help people reduce their risk factors for cognitive decline and promote healthy lifestyle behaviors for all age groups.

Help House (helphouse.online) is the food and clothing bank of Osage County. People can come to shop the floor for clothing and household goods. There is no charge, but they can donate. To receive food from the food pantry, they must fill out an application and include proof of income, proof of residence, and their ID. They must be income-qualified using state requirements. They also help some with utilities.

Contact: 785-828-4888

Emporia Day Care would have jobs available for classroom teachers if anyone is interested in applying. We are open from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

Please contact Jeanette Baker at 620-344-1238 or Stop by our locations:

Emporia Child Care

1320 C of E Drive
Emporia, Kansas.

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