Business & Human Resource Center

Building Neighborhood Connections

“Because of my work history, I knew it wouldn’t be easy for me to find a job.  But I found employment based solely on the recommendation of WHA’s Employment Center.  I’ve been working for ten months.  They are a great resource for the community.” -- Employment Center Client

Since 1992, WHA has worked to develop relationships with neighborhood employers in order to increase employment opportunities for residents. On August 1, 2007, Austin's new Business & Human Resource Center (BHRC) officially opened its doors at 4800 W. Chicago Avenue, and has already proven to be a tremendous asset to the community. WHA's Business & Human Resource Center (BHRC) serves businesses with their human resource needs while building the community by helping residents secure and retain viable employment. The BHRC's goal is to increase the capacity of Chicago business in order to continue to foster employment opportunities for community residents.      

The BHRC is unique in that it was formed and is facilitated by a collaboration of community-based organizations, governmental agencies and business partners, sponsored by the Mayor's Office of Workforce Development (MOWD). Located in the middle of the community, the BHRC seeks to build trusting relationships between employers and community residents. Our staff are experienced human resource managers that help navigate the needs of the businesses and case managers that help prepare job seekers for these jobs. 

In praise of BHRC, Mayor Daley said, "Rather than wait for the politicians, the community built this wonderful center. It will improve the economic health of this community...training residents for jobs...The center is open to everyone -- the unemployed, disabled and ex-offenders." 

Alderman Emma Mitts of the 37th Ward, chair of the BHRC Advisory Council, acknowledged the advantages of this resource, "We're looking ahead to a brighter future...an expanded hope for businesses and local residents seeking jobs...It's a great partnership." 

For more information on how to access BHRC's services, please call Quiwana Bell at 773-378-1878, or quiwanar@yahoo.com.

BHRC Services Include:

• On-site personnel needs assessment 
• Recruitment and Pre-screening of potential job applicants
• Training support for new and incumbent workers
• Work Opportunity Tax Credit Assistance 
• Assistance with processing TIFWorks 
• Empowerment Zone, B-HIP and other tax incentive and wage subsidy programs 

Accomplishments: