As Door County’s tourism-driven economy winds down for the winter, many local workers face reduced hours or seasonal layoffs. But community organizations like We Are HOPE the Employability Hub want residents to know that help is available.
“You don’t have to face unemployment alone. At We Are HOPE the Employability Hub, we can help you navigate seasonal layoff, find new opportunities, and help you build computer skills,” said Executive Director Kim Carley.
We Are HOPE offers free assistance with job searching, resume writing, skill building, and technological literacy — resources aimed at helping individuals transition through the off-season or prepare for year-round employment.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD), the unemployment rate in Door County continues to reflect seasonal patterns linked to our unique tourism economy. In 2023, the annual average unemployment rate was 3.0%, slightly down from 3.1% in 2022. However, the DWD’s 2025 Door County Profile notes that within the county, the unemployment rate “peaks in the winter, typically in February. Conversely, the rate usually reaches its annual low in October.”
Computer skills are becoming increasingly essential for finding and maintaining work in today’s job market. At We Are HOPE the Employability Hub, staff help participants build confidence using computers, apply for jobs online, and navigate digital tools that many employers now expect workers to use every day.
For more information or to get support during the seasonal slowdown, contact We Are HOPE The Employability Hub by calling (920) 743-7273, or visit www.wearehopeinc.org to learn about free local programs and training opportunities.
