ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - The Turner Job Corps Center held a resource and workforce fair in Albany Thursday, June 6 in an effort to connect students with new opportunities.

This fair comes as news broke that a U.S. District Judge issued a temporary restraining order on Wednesday in response to a lawsuit in the fight to save job corps centers nationwide.

Although cameras were not allowed at the event, WALB was on site and spoke with vendors about helping students and employees during the uncertainty.

On Tuesday, June 3, Albany city leaders gathered for a press conference addressing the federal government’s decision to pause operations at several job corps centers, including Turner who’s doors are set the close by the end of the month.

More than 500 students were enrolled at Turner Job Corps at the time of the decision. Nearly 20% of those 500+ students are considered homeless.

The event brought together a wide range of different organizations. Representatives from employers and agencies like WorkSource Georgia, Vocational Rehabilitation, Goodwill and Phoebe Putney were on site and ready to assist with applications, career counseling and support services.

Albany Technical College’s Director of Communications of Human Resources Lola Edwards told WALB that helping people transition after job loss is personal to her.

“I’ve been in this position before with two other companies, and when you are looking at having to start over again after you’ve been in place with an organization for over 10 years, it’s kind of hard, and it’s kind of heartfelt for me,” said Edwards.

Some students told WALB that although this is a tough situation, they are relying on their faith and the opportunities presented today to help them get to their next step.

For now, community partners said the focus is on helping students stay on track and continue building toward their future.

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