Saturday, July 19, 2025

‘Hire a Survivor’ Job Fair Today Offers Jobs, Services for Thousands of Fire Survivors

Hundreds of fire-affected families are expected to attend the “Hire a Survivor” job and recovery fair today at PazNaz Church, located at 3700 East Sierra Madre Boulevard in Pasadena. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a formal speaking portion scheduled for noon.

Hosted by First Church of the Nazarene of Pasadena in partnership with Global Empowerment Mission, Los Angeles County’s Department of Economic Opportunity, the California Office of Emergency Services, and other organizations, the fair serves families displaced by the devastating January wildfires that scorched over 57,000 acres and destroyed more than 18,000 structures.

Attendees must present two forms of identification confirming residence in the impacted fire zone. Survivors can explore on-the-spot hiring, resume assistance, job coaching, free food, live music, and family-friendly entertainment, including a Kids Zone. A concurrent Recovery Pop-Up will provide giveaways, essential services, and long-term support.

Job opportunities available include roles such as laborer, crew supervisor, intake specialist, case manager, childcare worker, and food packer, as part of the Fire Recovery and Resilience Workforce Program — a $14.2 million federally funded initiative. LA County’s Youth@Work program will also be on-site, offering paid work experience at $17.87 per hour to youth ages 14 to 24.

“This initiative shines a light on fire survivors and calls on all of us to take part in their journey forward,” said Michael Capponi, founder and president of Global Empowerment Mission. “Hire a survivor, because it’s more than just a job. It’s a direct investment in healing and rebuilding our communities.”

Kathryn Barger, chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, called the fair “a comprehensive approach to helping fire survivors” and emphasized the importance of employment in achieving housing stability and personal recovery.

Volunteer shifts were organized through L.A. Works, with setup on July 18–19, event assistance from noon to 4 p.m. today, and breakdown from 4 to 6 p.m. Press credentials are required for media access, with interview opportunities available with survivors, partner agencies, and employers.

“As a region, we’ve faced immense challenges,” said Kelly LoBianco, director of LA County’s Department of Economic Opportunity. “We can only hasten recovery and set our sights on a brighter future by coming together.”

Governor Gavin Newsom added, “Nearly 10,000 homes cleared — months ahead of schedule — because recovery can’t wait. Now we turn the page to rebuilding, and we’re doing it with a clear plan, strong partnerships, and the urgency this moment demands.”

Saturday’s fair underscores that urgency, offering not just job placements but a renewed sense of community for survivors still navigating the long path to recovery.