Employment
Senior Community Services Employment Program (SCSEP)
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) places economically disadvantaged adults aged 55+ into part-time community service assignments which assists them in transitioning into unsubsidized employment.
SCSEP enables them to acquire job skills and work experience by training 20hrs per week in non-profit and governmental agencies while they receive a training stipend for their efforts. The program also provides other opportunities for professional growth and development through educational workshops and internships.
The Program is offered through the State and three national contractors.
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is a community service and work-based job training program for older Americans. Authorized by the Older Americans Act, the program provides training for low-income, unemployed seniors. Participants also have access to employment assistance through American Job Centers.
SCSEP participants gain work experience in a variety of community service activities at non-profit and public facilities, including schools, hospitals, day-care centers, and senior centers. The program provides over 40 million community service hours to public and non-profit agencies, allowing them to enhance and provide needed services. Participants work an average of 20 hours a week and are paid the highest of federal, state or local minimum wage. This training serves as a bridge to unsubsidized employment opportunities for participants.
Participants must be at least 55, unemployed, and have a family income of no more than 125% of the federal poverty level. Enrollment priority is given to veterans and qualified spouses, then to individuals who are over 65, have a disability, have low literacy skills or limited English proficiency, reside in a rural area, are homeless or at risk of homelessness, have low employment prospects, or have failed to find employment after using services through the American Job Center system.
SCSEP grantees include state agencies and 19 national non-profit organizations. For more information on SCSEP programs in your area, use CareerOneStop's Older Worker Program Finder or call the toll-free help line at 1-877-US2-JOBS (1-877-872-5627).
