Smart Workforce Solutions

Tapping the Experience of Older Workers

Hiring Older Workers through the Senior Community Service Employment Program

What is SCSEP?

SCSEP stands for Senior Community Service Employment Program. Its mission is to provide job training and placement for people with limited financial resources who are age 55 or older, and to provide employers with trained, motivated workers. SCSEP is an equal opportunity employer/program.

Why should I hire an older worker?

Talented. Experienced. Responsible. Qualified. These words represent the values demonstrated by older workers. SCSEP participants possess a work ethic unmatched by most other employees.

A survey of human resources managers showed “loyalty and dedication to the company” along with “commitment to doing quality work” as the top two qualities of older workers. These qualities serve a business not only through the older worker’s efforts, but by providing an example for other employees to follow.

Hiring older workers brings stability to a workplace by reducing turnover. This saves money in the long run by reducing recruitment and training costs. Some employers may even qualify to take part in a program that pays the new employee’s salary during an on-the-job training experience.

Does it work?

For nearly 40 years, SCSEP has helped millions of Americans find jobs in community service and the private sector. Each year, more than 100,000 participants receive job training and over 20,000 are placed with employers through 69 grantees, including 13 national non-profit organizations and 56 units of state and territorial governments.

How do I find out more about SCSEP?

Sherri Wright, SCSEP Project Director
2700 McClelland Boulevard, #B-214
Joplin MO 64804
(417) 659-8100
(417) 659-8110 (FAX)
scswright@aol.com