Nonprofit helps older job seekers reenter workforce

For many older Idahoans, going back to work is not an option — it's a necessity. Experience Works, a local nonprofit organization, has immediate openings for interested applicants who need assistance getting back into the workforce.

Experience Works operates the Senior Community Service Employment Program or SCSEP in 41 Idaho counties. The U.S. Department of Labor-funded program is a stepping stone to employment and geared for people 55 and older who are unemployed and have incomes of $14,850 per year or less for a family of one; $20,025 for a family of two. (Call for additional guidelines for more family members.)

“Searching for employment can be difficult or even overwhelming for older job seekers,” saidPat O'Sullivan, employment and training coordinator for Experience Works. “This program provides a life-line to help them succeed.”

O'Sullivan pinpoints dwindling retirement accounts, rising healthcare costs, and increasing household expenses as just a few of the reasons people are remaining employed or searching for a job to help make ends meet. The SCSEP provides the opportunity to bridge skill gaps and build confidence for a successful job search.

Those enrolled spend an average of 18 hours each week in paid community service assignments at public and nonprofit organizations, for which they receive the minimum wage of $9.00 per hour. Examples include performing clerical and administrative duties at nonprofits, sorting donations at food banks, preparing meals and recreation at senior centers, or assisting in classrooms and libraries. They also have access to a variety of training and supportive services such as developing a resume, improving interview skills, and identifying job opportunities.

According to O'Sullivan, there are a limited number of program openings in Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Idaho, Kootenai, Latah, Lemhi, Lewis, Nez Perce, and Shoshone counties. “We want to reach out to people who are struggling and need help,” she says. “We encourage them to call us to learn about whether the program might be right for them.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Experience Works at (208) 765-5191(208) 765-5191, toll-free (866) 207-2611(866) 207-2611 FREE or visit www.experienceworks.org.