Older Learner Center

Encore Careers in Healthcare Project

The Grand Rapids Community College Encore Careers Project, with funding from the MetLife Foundation and Civic Ventures, is a program designed to prepare persons 50 and older for entry level careers in the growing health care field. 

By developing basic computer skills, resume writing, interview skills, and the ability to search the internet, participants will be well on their way to developing the 21^st century skills needed for a rewarding Encore Career. An Encore Career is a one that makes a difference in your community, is filled with personal meaning, provides you with continued income, and takes into account your talents and experience.

Are you unemployed or between careers?

If you are 50 or older, free of a criminal record, and hold a GED or high school diploma, consider the following questions to help you determine if this program is for you:

• Are you a people person?
• Are you considering a career in the health care field?
• Are you willing to accept an entry level position?

If you answered "yes" to these questions, you are ready to take the next step and fill out an application. Applicants will be screened for potential entry into the program. 

Upon acceptance, participants will join other classmates in a 40 hour preparatory program, and will receive direct support and encouragement from program staff. 

Classes will be held for five consecutive Fridays from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. Participants will be placed in one of the two 40-hour sessions.

Session One: October 23 through November 20

Session Two: February 19 through March 19

Programming includes:

1. Preparing for 21^st century health care workplace.
2. A brief look at what to expect in the health care environment:
   1. Control of infectious disease
   2. Airborne Pathogens
   3. HIPPA Privacy Act
   4. An overview of medical terminology
3. Career Development
4. Basic Computer Skills.

For more information: please contact:

Jeanette Smith
Project Coordinator
(616) 234-4412
jesmith1@grcc.edu

Employer Seminar

The project will also host a free seminar (including breakfast) for health care providers that highlights the benefits and importance of hiring and retaining workers aged 50 and older. A goal of the Encore Careers Project is to use this seminar as a tool to educate area health care employers on the value of the 50 plus worker. 

This free seminar for healthcare employers will address:

• Perceptions/Stereotypes commonly held by employers regarding employment of workers age 50+
• Developing newfound appreciation for the assets of the mature worker
• Dispelling myths and misinformation regarding the potential of older workers to meet your workforce needs with experience, a strong work ethic, and leadership

Pre-Registration is required.

Register online at www.grcclearn.com or by calling 616 234-3400

Jan 29, 2010 8:00 - 10:00 am

Apr  9, 2010 8:00 - 10:00 am

For more information: please contact:

Jeanette Smith
Project Coordinator
(616) 234-4412
jesmith1@grcc.edu

Program Flyer (PDF)

Videos

Dr. Harry Moody - 50 Plus Workers: Making Age an Asset (event)

Dr. Harry Moody - Seniors & Learning: A Conversation (interview)

Mature Persons in the Workplace is a 23 minute video produced in 2007 by the Older Learner Center and Media Technologies of Grand Rapids Community College. This video explores the myths and realities of employing older persons in the contemporary workplace. Filmed in a variety of employment settings using interviews of employers and employees, the video demonstrates the value of training mature workers to excel in a range of skilled, high-tech jobs.

View Streaming Video: Windows Media or Real Player

Resources

Fact Sheet for those working in Employment Services

Fact Sheet for Job Training Instructors

Slideshow for those interested in working with mature workers

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