There are about twice as many job openings in Columbia than there are people looking for a job, according to the Columbia Chamber of Commerce — a gap of roughly 3,000 people that the Chamber is looking for ways to fill.

At an Oct. 1 meeting, the Chamber's vice president of external affairs Lily White Boyd announced a new “Boomerang” program, a joint venture with the City of Columbia intended to entice former residents to move back to the city and take open jobs.

Samantha Chandler, director of marketing and communications with the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, said a particular focus of the program will be those who left Columbia for their careers, but who are now looking for a place to settle down — including University of Missouri alumni and those who grew up in the area.

“You're mov

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