GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)--Over 70 employers and resource agencies filled up the gym at Howard Center, ready to hire Georgetown County Paper Mill employees who will soon be without jobs. Officials said the goal is to keep the workers local and support Georgetown’s economy. Last month, over 600 employees were told they'd be out of a job before the end of the year. When the International Paper Mill announced plans to close emp,loyers in the community rallied around them. “We have had a fantastic turnout. I cannot believe many employers have come out to meet these IP people. They know how talented and skilled they are and what they want, which is wonderful,” said Ayla Dyer, A director of Waccamaw Regional Council Workforce development. Approximately 80 companies and businesses participated in the job fair. Representatives from state and local government jobs, medical facilities, and more. With the vision to keep these skilled workers in the local workforce and ensure Georgetown’s economy isn't crippled by the closure. “The closure has created a lot of issues for us, most of which we will be looking at in the coming year but right now our focus is on the people, and we want to make it possible for their families to stay in Georgetown County to work and live and thrive in Georgetown County,” said Jackie Broach, The public information officer for Georgetown County. Officials said this is just one of the ways they're supporting those impacted by the closure, and they plan to continue doing so throughout the process. “I hope that they realize that this community is close-knit. I hope they know that we’re here to build each other up and keep each other here to ensure we’re a thriving community and keep building toward a better future,” said Maya Morant, the marketing director for economic development. Another job fair happens on Friday from 12 pm until 5 pm at the Howard Center.