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LAURINBURG, N.C. — North Carolina's unemployment figures far exceed the national numbers and parts of the tar heel state are facing tougher times than others.

On Thursday, an urgent unemployment opportunities summit was held in what can be considered the epicenter of unemployment, Scotland County. Residents with resumes in hand came to Laurinburg looking for jobs and ideas to find any openings.

Scotland County has the highest unemployment rate in North Carolina.

“In Scotland County the unemployment rate is 17.6 percent that's really awful. It now takes longer to find a job than anytime in the last 60 years. It takes over 40 weeks and if you can find a job it is 17 percent reduction in pay,” said Rep. Bill Faison, an Orange County Democrat.

Preachers, teachers, politicians and employers gave their best advice to those who are searching for jobs. They said those who are in need of employment should keep their eyes and ears open to the plethora of information and resources are available.

Scotland County resident Irene Davidson hopes the summit will open doors to an opportunity for her but she walked away with some good advice for all job seekers.

“For those of you are are unemployed, keep your head up be strong stay diligent get your resume out there do the leg work, it's worth it,” said Davidson.

New county unemployment numbers will be released Friday by the Employment Securities Commission.