As the nation's economy continues to improve and unemployment rates continue to drop, job opportunities abound.

To help connect veterans with this economic rebirth, AMVETS Alvah R. Dravis, Post 1, is hosting an American Veterans Hiring Event.  This is the 17th year that the post, located at 5717 South Tyler St. in Tacoma, has held the event.

"We're here to help and support our veterans," wrote adjutant Glenn Skinner, in an email.

Founded in 1941, the post is named in honor of World War II Army veteran Alvah R. Dravis, an early chapter member.  

AMVETS, also known as American Veterans, is the largest and oldest veterans service organization.  It is open to and advocates for all veterans and their families.

"We serve to enhance and safeguard the entitlements for all veterans who have served honorably through leadership, advocacy and services," continued Skinner.

In fulfillment of this philosophy, the post's hiring event is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Lending support is the Washington State Department of Veteran Affairs, which helped coordinate the event.  Approximately 75 businesses and organizations -- ranging from area police departments and companies to service organizations and insurance companies -- will be present to take resumés.

Skinner pointed out that he expects about 200 attendees, that the event is open to the public, and that attendees should "bring their resumés and dress to impress."

For more information, call 253.472.2552, extension 4.

But the job news gets better.

Thursday, Nov. 16, the day after the AMVET American Veterans Hiring Event, Ignite-U will host Expo 2017.

An event designed to increase networking among businesses, it will be held at 5700 Pacific Hwy. E. in Fife from 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Ignite-U has partnered with local business owners to inspire and educate the local business community since 2011.

Expo 2017 is free to attend, and more than 60 vendors are expected to be present.

"This is pure gold," wrote Lori Michelle, in a review of a recent expo. "This amazing group of people (has) done more than just brought me new clients to work with, but I have made new friends."

For more information about Expo 2017, visit facebook.com/events/298719050605083??ti=ia.