For the first time ever, there's now a single location for both employer and employee resources in Pleasanton. The new One-Stop Career Center at 2174 Rheem Drive can help local employers find qualified employees. Plus, there is no charge for their services.

The partners in the One-Stop cover a full spectrum of local and state employment agencies, training programs, and more, and include the State of California Employment Development Department, Las Positas College, the Private Industry Council, Regional Occupational Program, and local adult schools. The Pleasanton One-Stop operates under the umbrella of East Bay Works, a partnership of public, non-profit and private organizations, and is one of 17 in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

E.J. Hilliard, One-Stop supervisor, explains that they serve every size of employer from large corporations to mom-and-pop businesses.

"It's a good way to match local employers with people seeking local jobs," she adds.

The EDD's Ron Cornman, who works to help employers find the employees they need, agrees. He believes that the One-Stop will attract many Tri-Valley residents who are commuting long distances but want to work closer to home.

Live Locally, Work Locally

The City of Pleasanton's Economic Vitality Committee thinks so, too. In fact, the group is working to create a program that will help connect employers with residents seeking to work locally. The project, which is under design, will involve Pleasanton employers and public employment services groups and should be completed by early Fall.

The anticipated outcome of the program would be benefits to residents, businesses, and the City. Residents' quality of life will improve through reduced commute times, employers will have assistance in attracting needed employees, and the City would have the satisfaction of assisting community members and helping reduce regional traffic.

A Link to the Web

Another service available at the One-Stop is information and assistance for employers who wish to post job openings on the Internet, including the EDD's CalJobs site ( caljobs.ca.gov ), the second largest jobs site in the world. Help accessing America's Job Bank, run by the federal Department of Labor, is available as well. Other EDD programs, such as their helpful employment tax seminars for businesses of all types, are also available through One-Stop.

Loads of Information

The One-Stop also serves as an information clearinghouse. They have information on the labor market, Tri-Valley employment trends, economic development, and referral and training opportunities for current employees. Plus, there's information and resources for veterans, people over 55, youth, laid-off workers and people with disabilities. It's all there and it's all free.

Hours are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Wednesday from noon to 7:00 p.m. The phone number is (925) 417-2040.

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