Senior Employment Program

Introduction to the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is a Federal and State-funded initiative. Specifically, SCSEP is funded through the U.S. Department of Labor and operates as a program under the Department of Rehabilitative Services – State Unit on Aging. Notably, SCSEP provides seniors who were once in the workforce with an opportunity to return. In addition, it offers seniors who have struggled to enter the workforce the chance to gain skills that can help them find permanent employment.

History and Purpose of SCSEP
Since 1968, the SCSEP has been delivering community service work training under Title V of the Older Americans Act. Currently, in Fairfield County, the SCSEP is administered by two agencies: Jewish Family Services and The WorkPlace. This program aims to provide seniors (aged 55 or older) with the opportunity to train for an average of 18-20 hours per week at a community service agency (host agency).

Training and Employment Goals
Moreover, there is no time limit for host agency placements, allowing participants to gain valuable experience. During this time, seniors will not only develop new skills but also enhance their existing ones while receiving on-the-job training. Ideally, after completing their assignment at the host agency, the trainee will secure permanent, unsubsidized employment—either at the host agency or elsewhere.

Role of Host Agencies and Payment Structure
Host agencies, which are non-profit or government organizations, provide SCSEP participants with training and learning opportunities. Importantly, during the SCSEP enrollment, participants’ wages are covered through the Title V Program. As a result, host agencies are not responsible for paying any wages to the participant. This arrangement ensures that seniors receive fair compensation while developing the necessary skills for long-term employment.