In the current economy many older adults are finding a need to return to the workforce or stay in longer than planned. Unfortunately, they do not all have the job skills necessary to remain relevant in today’s employment market.
Easter Seals-Goodwill Northern Rocky Mountain would like to help, said Utah director of services Janet Wade.
The organization, a division of the century-old Easter Seals, has a program for Utahns ages 55 or over called the Senior Community Service Employment Program.
It pairs older adults who want to work with a nonprofit or state agency that needs help. For about 20 hours a week the agency gives them work skills and job training in exchange for about $7.25 per hour, Wade said.
After six to 12 months, the participant should have enough experience to apply for a regular job. In the meantime, the nonprofit or government agency received valuable help from the individual.
Wade said the program is often utilized by women who were homemakers and find themselves needing more income later in life or by people with job skills that have become obsolete by new technology.
Park City residents have traditionally been better off in retirement than the average Utahn, but since the recession began in 2008, Easter Seals-Goodwill is finding more and more Summit County residents needing help.
“We want people to know this service is available,” she said. “Sometimes 20 hours a week can make the difference between losing your home or putting food on the table.”
The program manager for the Park City area is Jean Richter. Call 801-536-7009 or 801-485-1205 for more information.
A description of the program can be found at the Easter Seals-Goodwill website at www.esgw-nrm.easterseals.com .
Most of the programs described on the site are for disabled adults, but under “adult services” select SCSEP to read about the program open to all income-challenged adults over the age of 55.