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-- Programs and Services -- Contact Information Honor the contributions of older workers, Sept. 24-28
By Heather P. Boulger
Did you know seniors age 65 and older are one of the fastest growing labor groups in the U.S.? Did you also know that 18% of the Berkshire County workforce is 65 or older?
Berkshire County is witnessing a dramatic growth in the number of citizens who are 55 or older, a trend that will continue well into the 21st century. As our population continues to age, older residents will play an increasingly important role in maintaining our economy. Many of today’s older workers are delaying retirement by beginning second careers. Other seniors continue to work for personal satisfaction or for financial reasons.
One way to introduce employers to the benefits of employing older workers is by joining Elder Services of Berkshire County, the Berkshire County Regional Employment Board, Berkshire Works, and the U.S. Department of Labor in celebrating National Employ Older Workers Week, September 24 to 28. Both Mayor James Ruberto and Mayor John Barrett, III will be signing proclamations encouraging employers to participate in activities that recognize the important contributions that older workers make to the Berkshire labor market.
National Employ Older Workers Week activities focus on recognizing the importance of the participation of older workers in the labor force. National Employ Older Workers Week showcases the efforts of the Department of Labor’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) of 40 years in serving the job training and placement needs of people with limited financial resources who are age 55 or older. In Berkshire County, this program is operated by Elder Services and helps nearly 125 people annually.
The Committee on Economic Development cites surveys indicating that employers rate older workers high on factors such as judgment, commitment to quality, attendance and punctuality. These qualities, coupled with their “old fashioned employer loyalty,” make older workers an attractive resource for employers seeking workers and possibly mentors for younger workers.
Heather P. Boulger is the Executive Director of the Berkshire County Regional Employment Board.