MATURE WORKERS SEMINAR A HUGE SUCCESS
OCTOBER, 2007

Irwindale, CA – LA Works Partnership recently sponsored the third annual “Older and Wiser: The Time is Now!” Seminar. The event, designed for jobseekers ages 40+ to support the increasingly growing population of mature workers, was held October 3rd in recognition of National Employ Older Workers Week.

America is observing an exciting growth in the number of citizens who are 55 or older, a movement that will continue well into the future. As our population continues to age, older Americans will continue to play an important role in maintaining our economy and our leadership in the world marketplace.

First celebrated in the Eisenhower Administration, and celebrated nearly every year since that time, National Employ Older Workers Week activities focus on recognizing the importance of the participation of older workers in the labor force. This is an important opportunity for elected officials, employers, and the general public to highlight the vital role of older workers in the current labor force and the continuing importance of the participation of older workers in meeting the employment needs of our 21st century economy.

National Employ Older Workers Week provides an opportunity to increase awareness and focus on development of innovative strategies for tapping into this underutilized labor pool that can help address the challenge posed by potential worker shortages. Americans aged 55 or older are a dedicated and experienced core of our workforce. Their contributions to the nation as paid workers and volunteers in both the private and public sectors are immeasurable.

Presentations were given by:

Slettie Jones, L.A. County Dept. of Mental Health
Nelson Santiago, Consumer Action Agency
Olga Hernandez, Labor Market Analyst, EDD Jose Tello & Dr. Vanessa Isetta,
Neighborhood Legal Services
April Osback-Bustoz, “Clothes the Deal”

The event also included an employer panel that allowed attendees the opportunity to speak directly with employers regarding their hiring needs. Mr. Salvador R. Velasquez, Chief Operating Officer of LA Works had this to say about the success of the event: “I am very pleased with the turnout and outcome of the seminar. Older workers aid and improve our community by contributing their gainful experience, wisdom, and unique insight.”

LA Works partnership consists of Arcadia Mental Health, Employment Development Department, Department of Rehabilitation, East San Gabriel Valley Regional Occupational Program, Hacienda-La Puente Unified School District, Work Training Programs, Inc, Department of Public Social Services, and Los Angeles County Title V Program. The day’s activities included workshops on topics designed to help and protect mature workers against age discrimination, while providing job search assistance and useful information on services for mature workers.

For more information about LA Works, contact:

Shelly Laddusaw
LA Works
(626) 960-3964 ext. 2246
shelly.laddusaw@laworks.org

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