The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) helps unemployed, low income, job seekers 55 or older obtain the job search skills and on-the-job experience needed to find employment.

If you are eligible, SCSEP can place you in a temporary, part-time work assignment for 20 hours a week, (as funding permits) earning the current minimum wage.

As a participant you could be assigned to a public or non-profit community organization such as a senior center, library, school, or local government office.

Within this supportive environment you can learn new skills, help your community, and earn a limited income while continuing to seek a job with an employer in your community.

Job ready participants  are required to actively seek part-time or full-time employment while training.

Applicants must be citizens or eligible to work in the U.S. and must be willing to train for 20 hours per week.

SCSEP is authorized under Title V of the Older Americans Act.  Funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Labor through the Virginia Department for the Aging.

 

What Kind of Training can I Receive?

Once you are enrolled in the SCSEP program, a skills assessment will help determine training needs and options.

Job related counseling and assessment will help you to develop an employment career goal.

Then you will learn how to develop an Individual Employment Plan (IEP), set goals, based on interest, skills, and abilities.

In addition to on-the-job training, other training opportunities may be available.

To reach your employment plan and get a job, you may receive help to build job search skills: learn how to find job leads, complete applications properly, prepare a resume, and learn interview skills.

When you are placed in a temporary assignment you may be assigned to positions including: office assistant, library aide, receptionist, custodian, food-service worker, and more.

What is Your Checklist for Employment Success?

  Dependable - Maintain good attendance, be reliable and flexible.

  Communications - Speak and write clearly, use good grammar, be courteous and pleasant during all communications.

 Attitude - Show enthusiasm and get along well with others.

  Appearance - Dress properly, practice good grooming and personal hygiene.

  Work Ethic - Show pride in doing a good job, be productive, and work smart.

  Initiative - Accept challenges and opportunities, work without supervision when possible, and  look for work during slow periods.

What do Employers Look For in Today's Workforce?

• GED or High School Degree

• Basic Math and Reading

• Written & Verbal communication skills

• Computer Literacy

• Problem-Solving & Decision Making

• Understanding the Broader Picture

• Strong Work Ethic

• Positive Attitude and Flexible

• Independence & Initiative

• Good Self-Presentation

• Loyal and Dependable

What are  Eligibility Requirements? 

 Income           # in Household     

$ 12,763.00 ................... 1  person

$ 17,113.00 ..................  2  persons

$ 21,463.00 ..................  3  persons

Age Requirement:   Person must be at least 55 years old to be eligible.

Employment:   Persons cannot be employed at time of eligibility certification.

Residence:       Persons must reside in Virginia and service area at time of eligibility certification.

Job Search :     Job Ready Participants are required to actively seek employment while enrolled

                            in the program.

What are the Benefits for Older Workers?

• Individual Employment Plan (IEP) based on job related assessment and counseling

• GED preparation and adult education

• Computer literacy

• Learn where to look for jobs or get job leads

• How to complete job applications to improve an employer's response

• Learn resume and cover letter preparation

• Learn effective interviewing techniques

• Temporary on-the-job work experience with a limited income

• Opportunity to learn new skills and enhance current skills to improve employability

• Free limited medical examination

• Referrals to other service agencies for supportive services