Marion County job fair helps residents frustrated with unemployment

OCALA, Fla. (WCJB) – Unemployment numbers in North Central Florida are rising slightly, but some applicants still say they are having trouble landing a job.

Serenity Jackson is one of many Marion County employees applying for a new job, but her frustrations are growing. She says she’s applied to more than 40 jobs within a few weeks.

“It’s kind of like a double-edged sword. You want a job, you need experience. You need experience to get a job,” said Jackson. “It’s just kind of like a unending cycle where you’re like well, how can I get either if you don’t hire me?”

Jackson attended a free summer job fair, hosted by CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion, at the Howard Academy Community Center in Ocala.

Leaders say more than 20 onsite employers offered entry-level, experienced, and part-time positions.

State data shows between May and June, Marion County’s unemployment rate increased from 3.6 percent to 4.4 percent. Percentages increased in several counties across North Central Florida, including Alachua and Levy.

RELATED: Unemployment rises in North Central Florida, stays steady statewide

Juan Ramirez Jackson says he lives in the Salvation Army and has been on the job hunt for seven months.

“I got a little flyer from the police department, correctional facilities, so I like that,” he said. “I’m not being picky. I’ll get whatever I get.”

Aside from getting the job, one man told TV20 it’s hard to navigate between industries, even if he’s qualified.

“They just say we don’t have any interest in you, even though I can actually handle the system,” said Carlos Hernandez.

Even those with a job are lending a hand.

“My friends are unemployed, so I’ve been trying to help them actively look for jobs. We heard about this job fair, so I thought it’d be better to come in person rather than be online,” said Vincent Bryers.

CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion will hold another career fair at the College of Central Florida on September 25 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

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