Associated with the Governor's Summer Youth Job Hunt, the fair marked the first time Arapahoe/Douglas Works! and the Denver Office of Economic Development have collaborated to provide youth the chance to conduct a Denver metro area job search under one roof.

"This fair is specifically designed to make it easier for youth, ages 14 -21, to find employment," said Arapahoe County Commissioner Jim Dyer. "We've eliminated the daunting task of going from one company to the next filling out job applications and instead brought 55 metro area businesses searching for summer and entry-level positions to one location."

It's a fact that proved useful for employers as well. Aurora Century 16 Cinemas gave out more than 600 applications during the fair. In addition to employers, youth took advantage of 30 community resources at their fingertips including community colleges, apprenticeship programs and volunteer agencies to decide their summer plans.

"There were a lot of booths to help youth prepare for joining the workforce," said Laura Montoya who accompanied her daughter to the fair. "I was happily surprised to see how they are preparing youth to be adults."

Although the Fair is over, Arapahoe/Douglas Youth in the Works! provides year round support to youth seeking employment, volunteer opportunities, job-readiness workshops, career planning and more. For more information, visit www.adworks.org or call 303-636-1260.