US Agency Helps with Jobs for Elderley

Sometimes an employer will shy away from an older adult looking for a job, worried that the person can't learn new skills or get along with younger employees.

In San Mateo County, a non-profit agency working in conjunction with the county is giving older workers another shot at landing a job and dispelling some of the stigma surrounding older workers.

``We have employers who call us all the time and say, `We really want someone we can depend on, someone who will show up when it's a sunny day on a Friday,' '' said Susan Houston, director of senior services for Family Service Agency. ``Employers are realizing there's really a value in hiring someone who's been around for a while.''

The agency runs a program that places low-income county residents 55 or older in internship programs where they can hone their skills before landing a permanent job. It also provides job placement services for people who don't qualify for the internship program, which can be important around the holidays.

``There are some people who just want temporary jobs, seasonal jobs through the holidays,'' Houston said.

The agency gets funding through the U.S. Department of Labor and the county along with private grants. Interns are paid minimum wage, which goes up to $7.50 an hour from $6.75 an hour today.

For others, the chance to work provides rewards much greater than the paycheck.

``I had some emotional and financial problems when I came in here,'' said Diana Hervey, 65, who now works as a receptionist at the agency.