Older Workers: The Future Of North Carolina

For Immediate Release September 19, 2002
Contact: Dewey Graham (910) 798-3910 or Tony Sarmiento (301) 578-8469

WASHINGTON—The importance of older workers to North Carolina communities is being recognized Sept. 22-28 during “Employ the Older Worker Week,” acknowledged in a proclamation by Gov. Michael Easley.

Gov. Easley’s proclamation points out that older workers are more vulnerable in the current economic downturn, unable to find work after losing jobs. In fact, only half of those 55 years and older actually return to work within two years of losing their jobs. Once re-employed, workers over 55 earn only 78 percent of their previous wages.

“North Carolina’s population is aging, just like it is all across the country,” said Dewey Graham, director of the Senior AIDES Program for the Cape Fear Area United Way. “Fortunately, our seniors have options because of programs like ours. Governor Easley understands how important these programs are to North Carolina communities.”

“It’s our privilege to work with those North Carolina organizations that are helping senior citizens find good jobs that make a difference to their communities,” said Tony Sarmiento, executive director of Senior Service America. “These agencies have done an excellent job finding employers who can provide new skills and even permanent employment for economically disadvantaged seniors.”

Senior Service America has awarded more than $1.7 million in grants this year in North Carolina, part of the $65 million it has awarded nationwide in 27 states.

The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) of Senior Service America is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. SCSEP is an equal opportunity program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.