Two worlds collide during red ribbon week: Criminal Justice job fair/drug and alcohol expo
The Saddleback College quad was host to the Criminal Justice Job Fair/Drug and Alcohol Expo on Wednesday, Oct 28. The event took place in the middle of Red Ribbon week, during which the venerable organization sponsors events educating students about the dangers of substance abuse nation-wide.
Law enforcement made up about half of the booths set up in the quad, offering information and advice to students who stopped to talk. “I’m here to provide students with an opportunity,” said California Highway Patrol Officer Lassig. “We offer great programs for students interested in working with the California Highway Patrol. In fact, it’s one of the highest paying jobs when you join, up to $74,000.”
In addition to the Sherrif’s booths as well as the CHP presence, several therapy centers also had representatives on campus to talk to students interested in receiving care. One of those was Stacey Kinney, who was with the Mariposa Women’s Center. “It’s a Red Ribbon sponsored event, but a lot of organizations have booths here,” said Kinney. “Our organization provides therapy and support for the whole family. We have a sliding pay scale so that anyone can afford our services, and a special substance abuse program for women struggling with an addiction.”
Students who visited the job fair expressed their interest as well. “Yeah, this fair is pretty cool,” said Richard Lorusso, 18, criminal justice. “It gives students a chance to figure out what kind of jobs they want in the criminal justice field. The law enforcement booths provided a lot of information about what they do, and what kind of jobs you can get.”