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Free Employment Training Opportunities Available in Buffalo & Orchard Park

February 2, 2009

Erie County Executive Chris Collins, Buffalo Mayor Byron W. Brown and Erie Community College President Jack Quinn announced free training opportunities for local residents impacted by recent layoffs through local One-Stop Career Centers. The national recession is affecting the Western New York economy and several local companies have announced layoffs, including American Axle, Arcelor Mittal, Delphi and Yellow Transportation.

The One-Stop Career Centers - located in Buffalo and Orchard Park - offer a wide range of free employment and training services to individuals who are unemployed, looking to change careers, or seeking advancement in their current field. The two local One-Stop Career Centers allow people to access a multitude of agencies and services all under one roof.

"The national recession is hitting our local economy," said Erie County Executive Chris Collins. "Local businesses have announced layoffs, impacting many of our families. Learning new, marketable skills will be critical to helping people find new employment. That opportunity exists through free training provided by the Workforce Investment Board with support from Erie County, the City of Buffalo and Erie Community College."

"While layoffs have occurred and the national economy continues to struggle, area residents should take advantage of the resources we have made available through the city and county to provide employment and training services," said Mayor Brown. "County Executive Collins and I, along with ECC President Jack Quinn, will work closely together to ensure that these important services are available to anyone who seeking job training assistance."

"The staff of ECC's One-Stop center stands ready to help anyone who is looking for a job," said Erie Community College President Jack Quinn. "ECC's One-Stop will assist you, whether you're looking for a job in your current field or if you're looking to switch careers. I invite all Erie County residents to visit our One-Stop Center to see how we can serve you."

Center Locations:

Buffalo Employment & Training Center

77 Goodell Street

Buffalo, New York 14203

Phone: (716) 856-5627

ECC Employment & Training Center

3176 Abbott Road

Orchard Park, New York 14127

Phone: (716) 270-444

Website: http://www.ecc.edu/paths/onestop.asp

Summary of Available Services:

•Job Referral and Placement