Eckerd Connects Expands Youth Partnerships in Flagstaff

As the Title I-B service provider for ARIZONA@WORK Coconino County, Eckerd Connects continues strengthening local partnerships to expand opportunities for youth.

Team members recently met virtually with Becky Daggett of City of Flagstaff to discuss the EXPLO youth program and explore new Work Experience (WEX) opportunities across city departments.

The discussion focused on enhancing referral pathways and increasing meaningful career exploration options. City Council members and municipal leaders were also invited to serve as volunteer mentors during EXPLO’s Professional Interview module, supporting adult mentoring and leadership development under the WIOA Youth program. These efforts will help create hands-on learning experiences and build strong career pathways for Flagstaff youth.

ARIZONA@WORK Coconino County Participates in Cultural Health & Wellness Series

As the Title I-B service provider for ARIZONA@WORK Coconino County, Eckerd Connects staff recently participated in the Cultural Health & Wellness Series, where they connected with students and shared information about available workforce and career coaching services.

The event brought together students and community partners to promote wellness, education, and career awareness. Our team engaged with youth to share information about workforce services and career coaching, answering questions and helping students explore pathways toward meaningful employment and long-term career success.

Other organizations in attendance included Coconino County Health Department, Tuba City Regional Health Care Corp., San Juan College, Navajo Nation Mental Health Awareness, and the Navajo Department of Health HIV Prevention Program, among many others.

Working Alternatives Hiring Event Yields Strong Results

Working Alternatives, a local Residential Reentry Center in Flagstaff, partnered with ARIZONA@WORK Business Services and the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) to host a two-day hiring event on February 9–10. Due to construction at DES, the event was held at the Hampton Inn & Suites Flagstaff West.

The employer aimed to fill 12 positions, primarily full-time roles. Over the two days, 25 candidates attended, applied, and interviewed based on their qualifications. Eight conditional job offers were extended pending background clearance, and additional applicants remain under consideration to fill remaining openings.

Working Alternatives expressed strong appreciation for the candidate turnout and the support provided to help participants prepare for a successful hiring event.

Williams Community Resource Fair

The Williams Community Resource Fair is coming up, bringing healthcare providers, youth programs, and support services together in one place to help our community thrive.

Date: Friday, March 27

Time: 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Location: Williams High School Gym (440 S 7th St), Williams AZ

Available Resources Include:

• Medical, dental, and vision services
• Mental health and substance-use programs
• Youth sports and recreation opportunities
• Family resource and support groups

Interested in participating as a provider? Contact dsanders@williamsaz.gov or sclauer@williamsaz.gov.

WMED Offers In-Person ServSafe® Certification

White Mountain Economic Development (WMED) is now offering in-person ServSafe® Food Manager Certification training with same-day testing across Northern Arizona. Developed by the National Restaurant Association, this nationally recognized credential covers essential food safety practices required for managing a food operation.

By providing local access, WMED helps rural entrepreneurs and restaurant staff overcome barriers to certification. Participants who earn their credential also become eligible to use WMED’s shared commercial kitchen network. Classes are offered regularly with certified instructors.