If you're a local teen contemplating your future career or looking for a summer job, mark off March 12 on your calendar; conversely, if you're a local business owner looking for a summer intern or future employee, Marblehead for Teens wants you as well.

The local nonprofit group is hosting it's first ever Teen Job & Resource Fair next month at the Marblehead Community Center.

Marblehead for Teens, established in 2006 to provide leadership opportunities and safe recreational activities for teens in light of sobering local statistics on teenage substance abuse, says there's likewise a need to connect teens with career resources and training.

Executive director Molly Williams was not immediately available for comment on the upcoming event, but a brochure explains it this way:

"Summer employment can be more than just a means to earn money and fill a gap on a college application. It can be a profound mentoring experience that helps youth identify their talents, interests and passions.

"In speaking with the local high school head guidance counselor, there is also a need for teens to develop a sense of career-mindedness, exploring work opportunities and making connections to academic pathways that lead to fulfilling careers."

And teens need help making those connections and discovering their talents, which is where local employers come in.

Marblehead for Teens is asking businesses to consider both setting up a booth at the fair and becoming a sponsor. College career centers are also invited to participate. Additionally, volunteers are needed along with workshop speakers.

The fair will be held March 12 from 5-7:15 p.m. in the gym at the community center. Teens will be able to check out potential jobs and employers, colleges, get resources and more.

The week prior, workshops will be held for teens on job readiness skills (resumes, mock interviews, etc) and developing or discovering passions for careers that match up with their talents.

As of Feb. 12, the following sponsors were already signed up for the fair:

• Eastern Yacht Club
• Jewish Community Center of the North Shore
• The Landing Restaurant
• Lynch/van Otterloo YMCA
• Marblehead Chamber of Commerce
• Marblehead Recreation and Parks Department
• National Grand Bank

For more information, check out the Marblehead for Teens website here.