Economic Empowerment for Older Veterans

June 11, 2019

A Success Story

Introduction

SSAI works nationwide through a combination of direct service and a network of local, community-based partners. SSAI and our robust network of partners create pathways to economic independence for our low-income, older workers.

One of our amazing partners is Pro Action, a community action organization serving Steuben and Yates Counties of New York. SSAI and Pro Action deliver the Senior Community Service Employment Program (“SCSEP”), the only federally-funded program specifically targeted to older adults seeking employment and training assistance.

We are thrilled to reprint the following success story originally shared in the Pro Action of Steuben & Yates newsletter:

Carlton and Cedric

Carlton and Cedric are both Veterans that started in the SCSEP program as part-time kitchen aides to help with the Senior Nutrition and Home Delivered Meals program assisting with food prep and delivering quality service to residents and customers at the Clyde Simmons/Lake View Apartments community. Carlton and Cedric excelled in their assignments and were diligent with their Carlton and Cedricprogram requirements and job searches. It didn’t take long to recognize their talents and great attitudes, which lead them to be hired on by their Host Agency, Pro Action!

“It is an extreme pleasure to have Cedric and Carlton on my Senior Nutrition staff. They both are very engaging with the clients. Pro Action is truly blessed to have them as part of our team!” stated Jamie Hojnoski, Senior Nutrition Director.

Cedric Walton commented; “I was retired, but my Social Security wasn’t enough to keep up with my bills. I feel a lot of gratitude for the SCSEP program. They allowed me to earn some extra money and helped me with my job skills and made me feel part of a great organization”.

Carlton Bracey also commented; “I was living at the Bath VA before moving into my own apartment. I enrolled in the SCSEP program and was lucky enough to be placed at Pro Action as a receptionist and then transferred to the Nutrition Site to work with Jamie and his staff. The program has helped me realize that I still have great work skills and it has helped me grow and develop patience and tolerance for myself and others I work with. I have been able to accept my responsibilities and am accountable for myself to live a productive life. I am very satisfied with the program, they are wonderful, thank you!”