Job Seekers' Garden Club of St. Louis

The Job Seekers' Garden Club of St. Louis is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering a supportive community for job seekers, recruiters, and connectors in the Greater St. Louis area. Founded in March 2020, the group initially started as a networking effort on LinkedIn and has since grown significantly, now involving nearly 5,000 members, including job seekers, career coaches, mentors, hiring managers, and recruiters.

Mission and Impact

The organization aims to create a warm and caring environment where individuals can support each other in their career journeys, while contributing to making St. Louis a stronger and more vibrant community. Its approach involves eliminating negativity and focusing on positive support and growth opportunities through networking. By doing so, the club helps job seekers find career opportunities, accesses educational resources, enhances community outreach, and supports local businesses by fulfilling staffing needs.

Structure and Leadership

The Job Seekers' Garden Club of St. Louis is guided by a Board of Directors and an Advisory Board, which include professionals from various sectors such as human resources, corporate recruitment, and learning development. The founder and Executive Director, Bob Kolf, a retired structural engineer, played a pivotal role in establishing the organization following a career often spent as a hiring manager. The leadership team ensures that the organization maintains its focus on inclusivity and diversity, welcoming individuals from all walks of life.

Events and Programs

The organization hosts various events throughout the year to facilitate networking and support among its members. These include regular meetings, conferences, and workshops designed to help individuals navigate career transitions and find new opportunities in the St. Louis area. Notably, the annual Career Conference provides a platform for learning, networking, and personal development.