Inosi Naga, originally from Fiji, training at ACC SCSEP office.
I have been working for SCSEP for more than two years, and I have seen that this program can have a positive impact on mature job seekers’ lives. ACC- SCSEP has helped dozens of senior job seekers to find employment in the past five years. What really inspires me to work for this program are those moments when participants exit for unsubsidized employment with a big smile, or when you see a participant learning new skills and growing. It is important to note that ACC has been a key supporter of SCSEP participants by connecting them with more opportunities and community resources, especially during the COVID19 pandemic.
No demographic has been more impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic than older adults. SCSEP has helped older adults to stay employed during the pandemic. The program provided online training hours to participants so that they could continue to receive their benefits. Our immediate priority during the pandemic was the health and safety of our participants. At the beginning of the pandemic, we were able to secure a grant and provide laptops for participants. In the meantime, with the support of the Sacramento Public Library, we provided free hotspot devices to participants to help them engage in email communications, take online classes, and eventually learn how to search online for jobs using their own laptops.
Another benefit of SCSEP for older adults is civic engagement and reduced mental health issues. Isolation from the community and doing nothing can be very dangerous for one’s mental health. Our participants’ engagement in the community and their support of community organizations can have a positive impact on their overall well-being and stability. According to the National Council on Aging, the health of older adults also suffers when they struggle with finances. The SCSEP financial support is a huge help for the participants and allows them to be independent with less financial stress while searching for a job.
The program also provides participants with a variety of supportive services such as personal and job-related counseling, job search assistance, job referrals, technology training, utility assistance, and other community resources. The program team is working continually to connect participants with community resources. At this time, we are planning to organize a computer class for our participants where they will work with a computer instructor to improve their technology skills. I believe SCSEP is more than just a job training program for seniors. It is a golden opportunity for those who want to improve themselves and build a better quality of life.
To learn more about SCSEP, contact Haroon Abasy at
habasy@accsv.org or visit accsv.org/senior-job-training-program.
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