Udall, Bennet and Salazar Staff participate in the 2010 Jumpstart Resource Fair in Grand Junction

Staff was on hand to help Western Slope residents connect with services

Staff representing Senators Michael Bennet and Mark Udall and Congressmen John Salazar partnered with the Mesa County Workforce Center on Wednesday to connect Coloradans with employment and job training resources at the 2010 Jumpstart Resource Fair.

"Coloradans have a long tradition of pitching in to help their neighbors get back on their feet during tough times, and that's the spirit of today's Jumpstart Resource Fair. I want to thank the agencies who joined us to help families here on the Western Slope, and I want Coloradans to know that my doors are always open to help them connect with services from the federal government," Senator Udall said.

"When families are working hard to make ends meet, they should know that help is available right here in the Western Slope," Bennet said. "Agencies across the region and the state are working very hard to make sure nobody falls through the cracks during these tough times, and event like this can ensure they are reaching as many people as possible."

"The 2010 Jumpstart Resource Fair and the Mesa County Workforce Center are doing their part to provide employment and job training on the Western Slope. It is crucial that assistance is available to those who need it in these tough economic times and I'm glad that Coloradans are working together to help their friends and neighbors," said Congressman John Salazar.

The event brought together more than 3,000 attendees and more than 65 local agencies offering information, referrals and access to vital resources for unemployed and underemployed job seekers during this difficult economic climate. Agency services available included: housing, job searches, health care and public housing assistance, family and childcare assistance, senior services, veteran's services, legal and victims assistance, mental health services, youth services, education, and training services.

The 2010 Jumpstart Resource Fair is a result of cooperation by a number of Western Colorado government agencies, businesses, non profits, and community leaders.