The Shasta Economic Development Corporation Launches “First Friends”. A Pilot Program to Help Shasta County Businesses Recruit Top Talent.

Updated: January 10, 2025
News Release - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Shasta County businesses have a new tool to help recruit skilled professionals and medical staff! Today we’re excited to announce our “First Friends” pilot program. 

The “First Friends” program aims to complement local hiring efforts by connecting candidates with community members who can show and sell the lifestyle of Shasta County. Local businesses can request help from the Shasta EDC to introduce their promising candidates to vetted community members that share their interests and can answer questions about our community beyond the workplace. 

“Relocating for a job is a big decision, and we know that candidates often have questions or hesitations about moving to a new area. First Friends ensures candidates and their families experience the best of Shasta County during the interview process while simultaneously connecting them to their first relationships outside of their work. Our mission is to help businesses attract and retain the talent they need to thrive and we expect this innovative approach to be a huge help.”

— Rebecca Baer, President and CEO of the Shasta Economic Development Corporation

How the “First Friends” program works:

  • Employers connect with the Shasta EDC and introduce their candidates. We connect with the candidate to gather information about interests and potential relocation concerns. 
  • Based on what the candidate shares, we organize a personalized experience and identify a vetted community member that shares the candidate’s interests. 
  • When the candidate visits, they get introduced to their “First Friend” who can introduce them and their spouse or family to the best aspects of Shasta County.

Our First Friend ambassadors are carefully selected to ensure a positive experience. We make sure they can provide valuable information about local schools, outdoor recreation, our arts and culture scene, or anything else that matters to the candidate. The “First Friends” program ensures each candidate connects with a local community member that can inspire a vision of a life that can be built in Shasta County.

“We want candidates to feel confident not just about their job, but about their quality of life in Shasta County. First Friends provides a unique kind of support that helps families feel at home from day one.”

— Rebecca Baer, President and CEO of the Shasta Economic Development Corporation

Our aim is to directly address one of our business community’s biggest challenges: attracting and retaining skilled professionals and medical service providers to the region. This program is one way we are working to strengthen the regional workforce and economy while enhancing the area’s reputation as an attractive place to live and work.

How to Join the Pilot Program

The First Friends program is currently being offered free of charge. During the pilot phase, we are seeking employers in the medical space and those recruiting management-level professionals and executives. Shasta County businesses are invited to take advantage of this opportunity. For more information visit www.ShastaEDC.org/First-Friends or email us EDC@ShastaEDC.org

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Additional resource links that employers can share with candidates

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About Shasta Economic Development Corporation
Shasta Economic Development Corporation is a 501(c)(3) public benefit corporation focused on growing, diversifying and maintaining a balanced economy, leading to more economic stability and sustainability for Shasta County.

Media Contacts:
Erik Janiszewski / Erik@ShastaEDC.org
Rebecca Baer / Rebecca@ShastaEDC.org

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