Imagine you are over 55, you want to work, but you feel your skills are outdated or you have been out of the job market for a while. Getting back into the workforce can feel difficult. Luckily, there is a federal program designed just for you. It is called the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) . Run by the U.S. Department of Labor, SCSEP helps low-income, unemployed individuals who are 55 and older get back to work. The best part? You get paid while you learn new skills by working at local community places like schools, hospitals, and senior centers. This guide explains everything you need to know about this program in simple, clear terms.
What is SCSEP? (Program Value: Over $405 Million in Federal Funding)
SCSEP is the nation’s oldest program dedicated to helping older adults find work. It was created in 1965 . Every year, the federal government invests hundreds of millions of dollars-over $405 million-to run this program across the country . This money pays for your training wages, so you can earn an income while you prepare for a new career. It is a community service and work-based job training program that matches eligible older adults with part-time training positions at local non-profits and public agencies .
How Does SCSEP Work? (Paid Training: 20 Hours/Week at Minimum Wage)
Once you are accepted into SCSEP, you are placed in a paid training role at a “host agency.” This could be a school, a day care center, a hospital, or a senior center . You do real work that helps the community while learning valuable job skills.
- Work Hours: You typically work an average of 20 hours per week .
- Pay Rate: You are paid at least the federal, state, or local minimum wage (whichever is highest) . This is not a volunteer position; it is a paid training opportunity.
- Training Duration: You can receive training for up to 48 months (4 years) to help you become ready for a permanent job .
- Skill Development: You receive on-the-job training in new computer skills, administrative tasks, or vocational skills, plus professional job placement assistance to help you find a permanent job afterward .
Who is Eligible for SCSEP?
To join SCSEP, you must meet specific requirements set by the federal government. These rules ensure the program helps those who need it most.
Who Gets Priority?
Because there are limited spots, the law gives priority to certain groups of people. If you fall into any of these categories, you have a better chance of being enrolled :
- Veterans and qualified spouses of veterans
- People aged 65 or older
- Individuals with disabilities
- Those with low literacy skills or limited English proficiency
- People who live in rural areas
- Homeless individuals or those at risk of homelessness
- Formerly incarcerated individuals (within the last five years)
Where Will You Work? (Community Service Sites)
SCSEP participants are placed in meaningful community service roles that help the public. These assignments are designed to give you experience that looks good on a resume. Common training sites include :
- Schools and Libraries: Helping in classrooms or with administrative tasks.
- Hospitals and Clinics: Assisting with patient intake or office work.
- Senior Centers: Helping run activities or meal programs for other seniors.
- Day Care Centers: Assisting staff with childcare.
- Non-Profit Offices: Learning clerical and computer skills.
Real-Life Success Stories
The program truly changes lives. Take Joyce Lindberg, for example. She was on disability but joined SCSEP and discovered a passion for helping older adults navigate Medicare and Medicaid. She now runs programs that provide heaters and air conditioners to seniors in need .
Another example is Wayne Bohrn, a 63-year-old from Idaho. After retiring as a contractor, he needed to pay bills. Through SCSEP, he learned new technology skills on a platform called GetSetUp, mastering the iPhone and iPad. Now, he helps other older adults learn these same skills .
At North Carolina State University, participants like Serafin Carvajal and Eduardo Garcia used SCSEP to return to work as line cooks after retiring. They received hands-on training and were welcomed back by their old colleagues, describing it as “coming back home” .
Employers: How to Become a Host Agency
If you run a non-profit organization or a public agency, SCSEP is a fantastic way to get reliable, trained workers at no cost to you . The SCSEP grant pays the wages of the trainees. Here is what you need to know :
- Requirements: Your organization must have 501(c)(3) non-profit status or be a public agency. You must be able to offer 20 hours a week of supervised training and provide a safe work environment.
- Benefits: You get access to a pre-screened, motivated, and experienced workforce. It helps you build a multi-generational team and broadens the skills within your organization.
How to Apply or Find a Program Near You
If you think SCSEP is right for you, or if you are an employer wanting to participate, finding a local program is easy.
- Use the Online Finder: Visit CareerOneStop (sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor) and use their “Older Worker Program Finder” to locate services in your area .
- Call the Helpline: You can call the toll-free help line at 1-877-US2-JOBS (1-877-872-5627) for assistance .
- Contact Local Agencies: Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging or American Job Center (like WorkOne in Indiana) .
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is a powerful resource for older Americans who want to remain active, independent, and financially stable. It recognizes that age is an asset and that with a little retraining and support, older workers can thrive in today’s economy. Whether you need to update your computer skills, gain experience in a new field, or just need a bridge to a permanent job, SCSEP provides the paid training and confidence you need to succeed. If you are 55 or older and looking for work, this program could be your perfect opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is SCSEP just a job placement service, or do I actually get training?
You get real, paid, on-the-job training. You are placed at a host agency where you work and learn new skills, which is different from just being referred to a job opening .
2. How much money can I earn in the program?
You will be paid for the hours you work, which is usually around 20 hours per week. You are paid at least the minimum wage, so you earn a regular paycheck while you train .
3. Does SCSEP guarantee me a permanent job at the end?
While it does not guarantee a job, the program’s main goal is to help you find one. They provide job placement assistance, and many participants are hired by their host agencies or find jobs elsewhere using their new skills .
4. I have a lot of work experience. Do I still qualify if my income is slightly above the limit?
The income limit is strict at 125% of the federal poverty level. You will need to provide proof of your household income for the last 6-12 months to determine eligibility .
5. Can I participate in SCSEP if I am receiving Social Security benefits?
Yes, you may still be eligible. However, 25% of your Social Security benefit is not counted as income for eligibility purposes, but you should discuss how working might affect your specific benefits with a program counselor .
6. Is there a cost to join the SCSEP program?
No, the program is completely free for eligible participants. All training, support services, and wages are covered by the federal grant .
