BREA : Job Center to Receive Award From Rutgers

The Brea Day Worker Job Center will be presented with an award from the National Center for Productivity at Rutgers University in New Jersey.

The center, which began operating in April, 1990, helps day laborers find work by providing a place for employers and workers to meet. It was opened in response to residents’ complaints about day laborers gathering at various sites in Brea to find work.

Qualified prospective workers are selected for jobs via lottery numbers that are handed out daily. Payment is worked out between the employer and employee.

The award from Rutgers honors the center for several factors, including its impact on the quality of life for clients, effectiveness and ability to be duplicated elsewhere.

Most of the men and women who depend on the center for help are immigrants. The center does not require workers to carry proof of legal U.S. residency, maintaining that checking documentation is the responsibility of employers.

The award will be presented to Brea City Manager Frank Benest at the annual National Productivity Improvement Conference, held June 7 to 9 at Rutgers University.