In an effort to increase the workforce in Dallas County and make people aware of the career opportunities available to them, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Ala.) is hosting a Project R.E.A.D.Y Workforce Training Seminar at Wallace Community College Selma Friday, March 22 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Two workshops will be included in the program — career development and skills for getting hired.

“It’s a local program initiative that we’re rolling out throughout our whole district to deal with our number one issue, which is unemployment,” Sewell said. “The purpose of it is to facilitate employment opportunities in our district.”

Project R.E.A.D.Y, which stands for Realizing Everyone’s Ability to Develop Yourself, is an initiative that Sewell said she is excited about and thinks will spark employment and job opportunities in the area.

The first Project R.E.A.D.Y was hosted at Lawson State Community College and boasted more than 100 participants.

“We held a job fair back in August that drew over 5,000 people, which told me what I already knew — the people in our district want to work, it’s just lack of opportunities and resources,” Sewell said.

At the seminar, several local and state employers will be represented such as International Paper and Mercedes Benz in Tuscaloosa. Sewell said participants will have the chance to meet and talk with these employers to find out what they look for when hiring employees.

The seminar will also provide information on how to create an attractive resume, what to wear to an interview and how to prepare for a successful career.

“The real purpose of Project R.E.A.D.Y is to provide self empowerment,” Sewell said. “We want to help our constituents get the career development guidance they need.”

Along with Project R.E.A.D.Y, Sewell’s office has also created a workforce advisory council made up of local employers and educational instructors, which will be present at the seminar.

Residents can register for the seminar by visiting www.sewell.house.gov or by calling 877-4414.