The Dallas County Department of Human Resources JOBS Task Force is once again bringing local businesses together to aid in the search for employers with its 21st annual job fair.

Clifford Hunter, JOBS Task Force chairperson, said the event is the perfect opportunity for job seekers and businesses to meet and develop a working relationship.

“It’s a win win for both the community as well as the employers,” Hunter said.

“It’s a great time for networking and just sharing information about the company to the job seeker in hopes to spark some interest and employment opportunities.”

Hunter said last year, there were nearly 30 businesses and more than 500 job seekers in attendance, and he is hoping for even more this year.

“We just encourage anyone that’s seeking employment, and employers that are looking to do new hires or hire individuals to participate and become part of this awesome job fair that’s hosted for our area,” Hunter said.

In December, the unemployment rate for Alabama was 6.2 percent and Dallas County’s was 9.2 percent with 1,417 people not employed.

Hunter said he hopes the job fair will provide people with job, and lower the unemployment rate.

“It’s very important for both job seekers and the employers,” Hunter said.

“They’re networking, they’re making face to face contact. It’s great for our community in hopes to continue to drive down unemployment number.”

Hunter said he enjoys helping with the job fair and seeing the connections that are made.

“I’m always excited about the opportunity to help individuals who are trying to help themselves get to the next level in life and that is by gaining meaningful employment where by they can advance their way of living,” Hunter said.

Hunter said as always, DHR encourages job seekers to dress professionally and be prepared to speak with employers.

“We’re asking all job seekers that are coming to this job fair to please make sure you come with a polished résumé and come prepared to network with employers in hopes to gain employment,” Hunter said.

“We want the job seekers to look sharp, be sharp and act sharp. We want them to show up ready as if they’re going to land a job that day.”

All businesses in Dallas County and surrounding counties are encouraged to sign up, especially those that are actively seeking employees.

The job fair will be held May 10 from 9 a.m. until noon at the Carl C. Morgan Convention Center. Businesses are asked to reserve a table by March 31 by calling Ernestine Towns at (334) 874-1413 or Charlotte Lewis at (334) 874-1528.