Tapping into the 55-Plus Workforce

Tuesday, December 26, 2017

The struggle is on both sides: Employers looking for workers and seniors looking for meaningful employment.

One solution: DEED’s Senior Community Service Employment Program – or SCSEP. 

The SCSEP helps organizations and businesses statewide, by providing training wages to workers assigned to a business, non-profit organization or agency.  

Here’s how it works: SCSEP pays for all of the participant’s training wages if they are assigned to work at a government or non-profit agency. Businesses that provide on the job training experience may also be qualified for the program, but may have to share in providing training wages. 

People age 55 and older who are eligible can participate. They benefit by getting on-the-job training and current work experience they need through paid community service assignments. 

“Organizations get additional workers but typically don’t pay training wages, while participating workers receive valuable work experience,” said Taryn Galehdari, program coordinator.  

Seniors have traits and skills such as dependability, wisdom and a strong work ethic, she said. 

Here’s what one Minnesota WorkForce Center had to say about Dave Bye, a senior worker who came through Experience Works

“Our worker does a great job hosting the front desk, working with customers and assisting employees with administrative tasks,” said Tom Reese, interim manager for the South Hennepin WorkForce Center in Bloomington. 

“He knows what to do when difficult situations arise, adapts to change quickly and pitches in on new projects,” added Laurie Trach, workforce development specialist. “He has a great attitude that spreads to customers and staff.” 

Check out a video about the benefits older workers bring to the workplace.  

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