The Experience Unlimited concept started in Berkeley in 1959 and expanded quickly throughout the state. In the late 1970′s, the number of chapters began to decline until only four cities retained chapters. In 1986, the concept was revived and there are currently more then 20 chapters. Each chapter has its own identity and name, such as Professional Resource Network, ProSearch (Oakland), Profile (Santa Cruz) and ProMatch (Sunnyvale). To find other “Experience Unlimited” chapters throughout the state, visit the EDD website.
Experience Unlimited chapters are supported by the volunteer efforts of their members. These members have experience in administration, management, finance, personnel, education, engineering, marketing, accounting, computer technology and various scientific fields. They offer years of experience and often possess advanced academic degrees.
The emphasis in Experience Unlimited is on self-help. Members engage in job-seeking activities under the general guidance of an EDD chapter liaison. Members contribute a specified amount of time to an activity designed to obtain employment for themselves or other active chapter members.
On June 19, 2002, the first orientation meeting was held at the Professional Resource Network (PRN) in Stockton, California. This first meeting signaled the filling of a gap in the Central Valley, as there were no other Experience Unlimited chapters between Sacramento and Fresno.