The WorkSource Oak Harbor Job Fair will be held on Thursday, May 24 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 155 NE Ernst St., Oak Harbor.

The job fair is open to the public and will host more than 20 local and area employers.

WorkSource Whidbey provides no-cost monthly employment workshops open to individuals 16 years or older.

For more information and to view the workshop calendar, visit www.

WorksourceNorthwest.com or call 675-5966.

In preparation for the job fair, 20 Island County youth participated in an employment skills workshop called “Yes-2-Jobs” May 17 at WorkSource Whidbey.

The afternoon workshop focused on equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and tools necessary to secure a job.

Facilitated by Alicia Underwood and Kim Zielinski-Monette of WorkSource Whidbey, the workshop was tailored to meet the needs of today’s young jobseekers, most of whom face increased competition for employment in a sluggish economy.

“Youth have a real challenge ahead of them as they make their way into the workforce,” Underwood said.

Many of the jobs traditionally held by young people are now filled by older, more experienced and skilled workers.

“It is increasingly difficult for young workers to gain that first foothold in the labor market. Yes-2-Jobs is about giving them the tools to improve their chances of employment,” Underwood said.

The interactive workshop covered topics such as resume writing, how to complete an application, interview skills and job search strategies.

Resume writing instructions and tips were a popular topic in the group.