For Lehigh Valley families searching for employment, education, veterans services or support programs, the Working Families Resource Fair offered more than information. It provided direct connections to organizations working to improve lives and strengthen the community.

Hosted Aug. 22 by the Office of U.S. Rep. Ryan Mackenzie (R-7th) at the new Upper Macungie Lifestyle Center, the event brought together more than 60 vendors serving families from throughout the Lehigh Valley and Poconos. While children enjoyed activities on one side of the facility, parents and caregivers met face-to-face with representatives from agencies and organizations ready to help them navigate challenges, find resources and build a stronger future.

One organization making a difference was Job Corps, a federally funded residential education and workforce training program for young adults ages 16 to 24.

Blaise Eyster of Bethlehem explained how the program helps young people gain trade skills that can lead to lifelong careers, particularly those facing financial hardships.

For participants who qualify, Job Corps removes many of the barriers that can prevent young adults from pursuing training. Students receive housing, three daily meals, a biweekly stipend and career preparation at no cost. The program also provides professional tool kits to graduates who maintain employment after completing their training, helping them transition successfully into the workforce. Beyond trade skills, participants learn life skills, leadership and civic engagement through opportunities such as Student Government Association service.

The fair also connected families of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to The Arc of Lehigh and Northampton Counties. Through advocacy, education and support services, the organization helps families access opportunities and resources that promote independence, inclusion and quality of life.

Visitors seeking personal growth and encouragement found support through motivational life coach Lisa MacDonald, an Emmaus High School Class of 2014 graduate. MacDonald shared resources focused on self-discovery, coping skills, time management and youth enrichment. Attendees received information about her “Imperfect Helping Hands” podcast and a complimentary 30-minute coaching session.

Veterans and their families also benefited from the event. Representatives from the Lehigh County Office of Veterans Affairs and the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs provided information about benefits, services and programs available to those who served. Families had the opportunity to ask questions and connect directly with experts who could help them access support.

Additional organizations focused on employment opportunities, educational advancement, consumer protection and community services. Mackenzie’s staff shared information about scam prevention, while schools and workforce agencies offered guidance for individuals looking to improve skills, pursue training or secure employment. A document-shredding service provided residents with a secure way to dispose of private information and protect themselves from identity theft.

“As the father of two young children, I’ve been committed to supporting working families in our community,” Mackenzie said.

The fair reflected that commitment by bringing together a wide range of resources in a welcoming, family-friendly environment. Rather than requiring residents to visit multiple agencies, families could access services, ask questions and form valuable connections in one location.

The event also marked the first major public gathering at the new Upper Macungie Lifestyle Center, which is scheduled to hold its official ribbon-cutting ceremony in September.

For many attendees, the greatest value of the Working Families Resource Fair was not simply the information provided, but the people helped. Families left with new contacts, practical resources, career opportunities and support systems that can make a meaningful difference in their daily lives. By connecting residents with organizations dedicated to service, the fair helped turn community resources into real opportunities for those who need them most.