Goodwill is celebrating National Employ Older Workers Week and recognizing the contributions older workers (ages 55 and up) make both inside and outside the workforce. At a time when employers need to build resilience, older workers can play a critical role. They bring experience, reliability and perspective to every workplace setting. Your purchases and donations make stories like Kevin’s possible.
In July 2020, Kevin Kennedy found himself seeking a new beginning after having a poor work history and facing a recent struggle with a serious health issue. A trusted friend encouraged Kevin to apply to a Goodwill program that helps older adults get back into the workforce and build new skills.
The Senior Community Service and Employment Program (SCSEP) operated by Easterseals Goodwill Northern Rocky Mountain (Great Falls, MT) helps individuals ages 55+ find paid community service training in the field of their choice.
Kevin trusted his friend and many others who were encouraging him to make positive changes in his life. At Goodwill, he received assistance to develop a plan to find stable housing and build skills that could help him find full-time work. In his first community service role, Kevin trained at an emergency food bank in his local community where he could build soft skills like communication, problem solving and dependability.
Kevin enjoyed his training environment and meeting new people and says his favorite part was training alongside a friend, who helped him stay focused and mentored him during their time together. Kevin states, “He got me back on my feet, and the host agency nurtured me back into a job after my illness.”
In early 2021, that friend passed away unexpectedly and Kevin was devastated. He turned his grief into motivation to make the most of the opportunities that were presented to him. He dedicated himself even more to the emergency food bank and took on the extra duties that had been assigned to his friend.
He demonstrated stellar work ethic at his training site, and his efforts did not go unnoticed. In June 2021, Kevin was offered a full-time position and more than doubled his monthly income. Now that he has reliable work and an employer where he truly belongs, Kevin has found stability in his living situation and achieved more than he ever expected. He is determined to contribute everything he can to his employer and is an example of dedication and determination, despite having the odds stacked against him.
All older job seekers and workers deserve the opportunity to thrive. Goodwill helps older Americans through paid training, upskilling, ongoing support and assistance finding jobs that provide livable wages. If you are an older worker seeking help with training or paid work experience, contact your local SCSEP representative to see if you qualify. Find a SCSEP location near you.
Anyone looking to learn more about Goodwill job training programs or career search assistance can also contact their local Goodwill.
