The job fair will take place on Saturday, March 29 from 10 AM – 1 PM at the LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland
The Plexus LGBT & Allied Chamber of Commerce and the LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland will be joining forces to organize a forthcoming LGBTQ+ career and resource fair in Cleveland.
Scheduled for Saturday, March 29 at the LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland, the Plexus LGBTQ+ Career & Resource Fair aims to empower and offer a welcoming, all-encompassing environment for individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ to delve into career prospects, engage with inclusive employers, and tap into resources that can support their professional growth, as per a press statement provided to 3News.
Phyllis Harris, Executive Director of the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland said:
“In today’s world, it is more important than ever for LGBTQ+ individuals to have spaces that recognize them, appreciate them, and offer genuine opportunities for their development. Workplace discrimination and disparities continue to persist, underscoring the significance of events like this in forging pathways towards stability and achievement.”
Through workshops, panel discussions, and one-on-one mentoring, participants can enhance their resumes, develop interview skills, and refine their personal branding and job search strategies. The fair also facilitates direct connections with employers committed to diversity and inclusion, creating a supportive and empowering environment.
Amanda Cole, Executive Director of Plexus, told 3News the broader impact of the event is also top of mind:
“The LGBTQ+ Career & Resource Fair is not just about connecting individuals to jobs; it’s about strengthening our region’s economy and ensuring Northeast Ohio retains the young, diverse talent that drives innovation and growth. By creating spaces where LGBTQ+ professionals feel valued and supported, we’re investing in a brighter, more inclusive future for our entire community.”
The need to create such spaces is evident in the results of the Kent State University College of Public Health’s 2024 Cleveland LGBTQ Community Needs Assessment, which revealed the following:
- 39% of respondents experienced verbal harassment in the workplace;
- 73% reported microaggressions;
- 53% faced stereotyping; and
- 28% felt they were passed over for promotions due to their identity.
The Plexus LGBTQ+ Career & Resource Fair launched in 2021, and continues today in an effort to provide actionable solutions to the above listed challenges.
The career fair opens on March 29 at 10 AM and closes at 1 PM. It’s free to attend, with pre-registration encouraged at this link.
The LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland is located at 6705 Detroit Avenue in Cleveland.
The LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland was established in 1975, making it one of the oldest LGBT community organizations in the country. The organization plays a crucial role in providing support, resources, and advocacy for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community in the Greater Cleveland area.
Plexus LGBT & Allied Chamber of Commerce is the only LGBTQ business focused organization in Northeast Ohio and is dedicated to creating a vibrant, inclusive business community that celebrates diversity and fosters economic growth for LGBTQ+ professionals and businesses.
3News’ Stephanie Haney serves on the board of directors for the Plexus LGBT & Allied Chamber of Commerce.
