Chicago Urban League Unites Job Seekers And Top Employers At 13th Annual Citywide Job Fair
The Chicago Urban League, in partnership with Allstate, Target, and United Airlines, hosted its 13th annual Citywide Job Fair on June 17, 2026, at the UIC Forum, 725 W. Roosevelt Rd., Chicago. This year’s event featured over 85 employers and 2,618 registered job seekers from across Chicago and the greater metropolitan area, including surrounding suburbs, villages, and townships. Click here to download photos from this event.
The job fair provided attendees with interview preparation, career guidance, and job readiness resources designed to help them connect with employers confidently.
“The Citywide Job Fair is a direct expression of what the Chicago Urban League stands for — connecting people to real opportunity and building economic equity,” said Karen Freeman-Wilson, President and CEO of the Chicago Urban League. “We are proud to bring together employers who are serious about diverse hiring and job seekers who are ready to work.”
“For 13 years, the Citywide Job Fair has bridged the gap between employers seeking diverse talent and job seekers pursuing new career opportunities,” said Andrew Wells, Vice President of Workforce Development and Executive Director of the Empowerment Center at the Chicago Urban League. “Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or looking to take the next step in your career, the Citywide Job Fair is your opportunity to connect with employers across healthcare, technology, finance, manufacturing, public service, and beyond. These few examples are not only examples of individuals with incredible work-ethic, but they are also examples of why The Chicago Urban League was founded in the first place.”
James Anderson, 24
At just 24 years old, James Anderson walked into the Chicago Urban League Citywide Job Fair ready to take an important step toward building his career. During the fair, James interviewed onsite with our co-partner Allstate, where he had the opportunity to share his skills, professionalism, and readiness to grow. His preparation and confidence made a strong impression, and shortly after the event, James received a conditional offer for a Customer Service Representative / Inside Sales Representative position, pending successful completion of his background check.
Pamela Evans, 36
Pamela Evans came to the Chicago Urban League Citywide Job Fair with purpose, determination, and a willingness to pursue the next chapter in her professional journey. After interviewing onsite with Allstate, Pamela stood out as a strong candidate for the Claims Adjuster I position. Her experience, maturity, and commitment to moving forward helped open the door to a new career opportunity, and she was later extended a conditional employment offer pending successful completion of her background check.
Yasmine Washington, 29
Yasmine interviewed onsite with Allstate and demonstrated the professionalism, focus, and potential that employers are looking for. As a result, she was extended a conditional offer for a Claims Adjuster I position, pending successful completion of her background check. Her journey shows the power of showing up prepared, taking advantage of the moment, and believing that the next opportunity can be the one that changes the direction of your career.
Shonda Lewis, 30
Shonda Lewis came to the Chicago Urban League Citywide Job Fair to find an opportunity where she could bring her professionalism, people skills, and dedication to a meaningful workplace. During the fair, she connected with Learn Together Be Together Childcare Agency and made a strong impression through her warmth, readiness, and ability to represent herself with confidence. As a result, Shonda was offered a Front Desk Clerk position at the organization’s South Suburban location
Ron Anderson, 28
Ron Anderson’s experience at the Chicago Urban League Citywide Job Fair reflects the importance of showing up prepared and believing that the right opportunity is possible. Ron showed up at the job fair about 2 hours before opening. While onsite, Ron interviewed with United Airlines and demonstrated the professionalism, customer-focused mindset, and potential needed for a Customer Solutions Representative role at United’s O’Hare location. Following that interview, he received a conditional employment offer pending successful completion of his background clearance.
Event Highlights Included:
- 85 top employers actively hiring
- On-site resume reviews and interview coaching
- Career readiness workshops and networking sessions
- On-site professional headshots
- On-site child care
###
