Pastor Rev. Jim Driskell cell phone 717.386.3698 e-mail bm2driskell@aol.com
Pastor Emeritus Rev. Edward Devan
Church e-mail firststjohns@verizon.net
Church phone 717.843.8597
140 West King St. York, Pa. 17401

Staff Reporter

4:07 p.m. EDT, April 7, 2011
wpmt-york-unemployment-support-group
YORK— Losing a job doesn't only create financial challenges; it takes a toll on a person both mentally and emotionally. That is why members of a York church are offering a support group for the unemployed.

Jim Driskell, pastor at First St. John's Lutheran Church, says the class provides job search resources, as well as encouragement and hope.

"This is a group that is designed not only to help you find a job, it is also ultimately to realize you're not the only person there, you're not the only person dealing with the problems," said Driskell.

A handful of people showed up to participate in the class. Mark Stephens, who has been unemployed since 2009, drove from the Gettysburg area. He says he is hoping the group helps him grow his computer skills.

"As you know, the job market has changed, not all the jobs are going to be found through the paper or even through word of mouth, it is mostly through the Internet now," said Stephens.

Besides basic computer skills, Driskell says the class covers creating resumes, job interview techniques, and ways to network.

"It helps to have support, a lot of support from people who are going through the same," said Gregory Markey, who is looking for work.