First Job Fair to Support Those Impacted by LA Fires Coming to Pasadena July 19

First Job Fair to Support Those Impacted by LA Fires Coming to Pasadena July 19

A Countywide “Hire a Survivor” Initiative to Support Families Rebuilding After the Fires Led By GEM with Cal OES and LAEDC

Global nonprofit organization the Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), in collaboration with Cal OES, the County of Los Angeles, and the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), and other partners will host the first-ever Job Fair for Fire Survivors on Saturday, July 19, 2025 in Pasadena.

The Job Fair will be held in tandem with a large-scale Recovery Pop-Up, a collaborative effort between GEM and the partner entities, LAEDC and Cal OES, offering survivors direct access to vital resources, services, and giveaways to support their ongoing recovery. The Job fair marks GEM’s continued commitment to this mission, taking place two weeks following the six month remembrance mark of the devastating fires that rocked Los Angeles to its core.

Following the devastating wildfires across Los Angeles County, this event provides survivors with meaningful employment opportunities and access to services that support long-term recovery. It’s a one-stop day of hope, help, and healing for hundreds of families beginning to rebuild their lives.

“Hire a survivor, because it’s more than just a job. It’s a direct investment in healing and rebuilding our communities. Steady employment creates the foundation for long-term housing stability and personal recovery. This initiative shines a light on fire survivors and calls on all of us to take part in their journey forward.” - Michael Capponi, Founder, Global Empowerment Mission

“Eaton Fire survivors deserve every bit of support to help get them back on their feet,” said Los Angeles Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “I am proud to support this job fair which brings together state, county, and non-profit partners locally. I wholeheartedly support providing a comprehensive approach to helping fire survivors in their job search. Finding and securing work is a key step in their recovery journey.”
Attendees will have access to:
● Dozens of employers conducting on-the-spot hiring, including the LA County DEO’s Fire Recovery and Resilience Workforce Program
● LA County’s Youth@Work Program, providing paid work experience for youth ages 14 to 24.
● Resume help and job coaching
● Recovery Pop-Up will offer resources, access to services
● Free food, giveaways, and a Kids Zone for families
WHEN:
Saturday, July 19, 2025
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
* Speaking portion will begin at 12:00 PM PST
WHERE:
PazNaz Church
3700 E Sierra Madre Blvd
Pasadena, CA 91107
WHO:
● Global Empowerment Mission (GEM)
● Elected Officials
● Cal OES
● County of Los Angeles
● LAEDC
● Dozens of local and national employers
● Community-based organizations
● Over 1,500 fire survivor families expected
About Global Empowerment Mission:
Global Empowerment Mission is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing disaster relief and supporting long-term recovery efforts worldwide. Since the January wildfires, GEM has distributed over $8 million critical aid in Los Angeles County. GEM is now investing in sustainable and long-term recovery solutions for the community. Operations are run out of two warehouses: one in DTLA and another in San Pedro, which serves as a multi-agency hub supporting fire relief organizations across the region.
Press credentials are required for entry. Interview opportunities available with survivors, partner agencies, and employers. Media are encouraged to RSVP in advance by contacting any of the representatives listed below.
Media Contacts:
Press Inquiries: The Influence - Ali Lasky / Ali@theinfluence.com
/ Tabitha@theinfluence.com / Gem@theinfluence.com
Elizabeth Jernberg
Director of Operations, USA West – GEM
elizabeth@globalempowermentmission.org
559-309-1473