Westchester County hosted its fourth annual Diverse Abilities Job Fair on Tuesday.
A total of 300 registered candidates showed up at the Westchester County Center to check out the more than 60 organizations and companies looking to hire people with special needs.
"We have everything from janitorial jobs to jobs for people with advanced degrees," said Shari Rosen Ascher, director of Policy and Programs Small Business and Chambers of Commerce. "We want them to know that there are opportunities right here in Westchester and that there are companies that will take you seriously and are anxious to talk to you."
The Westchester County Department of Correction, state troopers, different hospitals, the MTA and the county were there, and so was Sonata Hotels.
In the hotel industry, there's a variety of positions that they can apply for - everything from entry level, dishwashing positions, housekeeping all the way up to management," explained Sonata representative Jeff Legares.
No prior experience required, you've just got to have heart.
"We aren't necessarily looking at skill-based applicants but more so the desire for hospitality. Hospitality is more a spirit to serve," said Legares.
People from high school to adults showed up, including 22-year-old Myles Brown, who is on the hunt for his first real job.
"It's a good experience, lots of different opportunities for people to explore so people can start making money and get paid and start living independently," he said.
With the unemployment rate for people with disabilities at 65%, events like this are critical. They're also highly accessible, with everything from ASL translators to the Commission for the Blind representatives available to help prospective candidates who need assistance maneuver through the event.
"The feedback we got from attendees is you really made me feel seen and heard, and I felt like I belonged," said Rosen Ascher.
Those who couldn't make it to the event can still check out the
host of resources from the county for anyone looking to find work.