Applications Accepted for Older Worker Programs

Applications for programs to help older workers re-enter the workforce are being accepted through the province's Age Advantage Plus program until Feb. 21.

Age Advantage Plus is funded through the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers, a federal-provincial partnership developed to aid unemployed older workers in communities affected by significant workforce downsizing or workplace closures.

"Helping older workers develop the skills they need to stay in the workforce is an important part of our jobsHere strategy," said Marilyn More, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education.

"Continuous learning is an investment that pays dividends in all areas of a person's life and helps individuals be better prepared to find work in today’s marketplace."

Age Advantage Plus targets people aged 55-64, and prepares older workers for employment in their communities. The Department of Labour and Advanced Education works with community-based organizations to develop and deliver Age Advantage Plus programs. The organizations plan, design and implement projects that respond to the needs of older workers and the community.

Since April 2009, the Targeted Initiative for Older Workers has supported 21 projects, providing training for over 350 people to help them re-enter the workforce.

"The Age Advantage Plus programs have had a tremendous impact on the mature workers in our community," said Bill Travis, executive director of PeopleWorx, a community organization that is delivering a program in Coldbrook.

"Participants value being in a supportive learning environment with their peers. Employers are eager to hire mature workers that posses such a strong work ethic. This is truly a win-win program."

Applications and more information are available at www.gov.ns.ca/employmentnovascotia/tiow .