by John Asgeirson

Created on: March 31, 2009

Tucked away in the massive economic stimulus billed just passed by Congress is a program called the Senior Community Service Employment Program whose funding was increased by 118 million dollars. The program was originally authorized by Congress in 1965 in Title V of the Older Americans Act and the program is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. Money is allocated to all fifty states and in most States, the governor has selected the State Office on Aging to administer the program with money going to Area Agencies on Aging or community based organizations.

Older workers may need some assistance in upgrading skills or help in reentering the labor market, it's possible that a part time job funded by the government can be that bridge to a better job and prevent having to make a decision between medicine, food, or rent in these tough economic times. Participants may work in local government offices or agencies helping to provide needed services to those affected by poor economic conditions. Individuals in the program will receive part time employment (usually 20 hours per week at the minimum wage), training as needed related to the placement, an annual physical, fringe benefits including social security and workers compensation coverage and placement assistance at the local One-Stop Career Centers. Older workers will be able to upgrade their skills using computers and learning other office related skills while upgrading their job search skills.

Confidence, new job knowledge, enhanced skills and a current work history will make each participant more competitive in the labor market and make retirement more comfortable and interesting. The program realizes that older workers are reliable and able to provide services and continue to be productive in ways that can benefit everybody. It beats isolation and lessens the issue of poverty for those most in need of economic assistance.

With additional money from the economic stimulus program the SCSEP should be able to help more workers improve their skills to compete in the job market and provide job placement assistance. Priority for enrollment in the program is given to those over 60 years old, veterans, and qualified spouses of veterans and those in the greatest economic need but you are eligible if you are 55 years old and have an income no more than 25% over the Federal poverty level you are eligible for the program.

There are many more people who are eligible for these jobs than funds to support these jobs. If you are interested contact your local One-Stop Career Center, or call 1-877-872-5627 to find information regarding SCSEP programs in your area.

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