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DFTA Holds Job Fair to Help Seniors Rejoin the Workforce

NEW YORK (Oct. 19, 2018) - The New York City Department for the Aging (DFTA) on Friday held its 18th annual senior employment job fair to help lower-income older New Yorkers rejoin the workforce. Some employers included the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, Citibank, the Council for Airport Opportunity, the Department of Citywide Administrative Services, and home health companies.

Job seekers speak with potential employers at the 2018 job fair

The yearly job fair was an opportunity for people age 55 and older who have completed the Senior Community Service Employment Program through DFTA’s Senior Employment Services Unit to start a new career. According to the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, 1 in 5 U.S. workers was 55 years or older in 2015 — and more people are working well into their 60s, 70s, and 80s.

"Low-income older adults are faced with tremendous hurdles, including having to rejoin a changing and fast-paced workforce," said DFTA Commissioner Donna Corrado. "Even after retiring with Social Security, many have fixed incomes that can't cover necessities, so they rely on supplemental income from jobs. The participating employers understand and value the work ethic that older adults have to offer."

The program provides computer training, career counseling, and assistance with job placement. Participants are paid the prevailing minimum wage during the training. "I couldn't afford the basics like my choice of food and clothing," said Fabian Eyisi, who completed the program and now works as a substitute teacher. "The help I received put me back on track."

Nearly 30 potential employers attended the job fair. "Sweet Chick is an equal opportunity employer, and we were happy to partner with the Department for the Aging at today's career fair. We are a diverse company that values employing New Yorkers of all backgrounds and ages. We spread love; it's the Brooklyn way!" said Director of Human Resources Martine Moore.

Over the years, DFTA's Senior Employment Services Unit has placed older workers in jobs at more than 300 nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and private-sector companies. Through these placements, older adults make ends meet while remaining active and engaged in their communities.

For more information about DFTA's Senior Employment Services Unit, call 311 or 212-602-6958.

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The New York City Department for the Aging works to eliminate ageism and ensure the dignity and quality of life of New York City’s diverse 1.6 million older adults. DFTA also works to support caregivers through service, advocacy, and education. DFTA is the largest area agency on aging in the U.S.

Media contacts:
Zenovia Earle
212-602-4152
Suzanne Myklebust
212-602-4153