National Older Workers Employment Week
National Older Workers Employment Week shines a spotlight on the contributions of Americans aged 55 and up who continue to make a difference in the workplace.
Held annually during the last full week of September, this event calls attention to the unique skills and strengths these experienced employees bring.
Many older workers continue working past the traditional retirement age, not only to meet financial needs but also to stay active and pursue meaningful careers.
Employers value the dependability, problem-solving skills, and seasoned judgment that older employees bring, making them valuable team members who strengthen workplace culture.
This week also helps raise awareness about support programs for older workers, such as the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP).
SCSEP assists low-income job seekers aged 55 and older by offering paid, part-time job training with nonprofit organizations and government facilities. These opportunities not only build work-related skills but also connect participants with potential long-term employment.
How to Celebrate National Older Workers Employment Week
Celebrating National Older Workers Employment Week offers a great opportunity to highlight the skills, experience, and value older workers bring to the workforce.
Here are a few spirited ways to mark the occasion!
Host a Skills Showcase
Plan an event to let older employees share their expertise! Invite team members to present a workshop or training on a skill they’ve mastered over the years.
From project management tips to tech tricks, this gives younger colleagues a chance to learn and celebrate the expertise of their seasoned peers.
Encourage Mentorship Matchups
Create a mentoring program that pairs older employees with younger team members. These matchups foster knowledge exchange and can introduce fresh ideas to both sides.
Mentoring also strengthens relationships and demonstrates the incredible value that different age groups bring to the team.
Run an Age-Friendly Workshop
Organize a workplace workshop focused on age diversity. Discuss stereotypes, highlight the benefits of a multi-generational workforce, and encourage open conversations about inclusivity.
This helps build understanding and appreciation for the unique strengths each age group offers.
Recognize Contributions with Awards
Nothing beats a little recognition. Hold a special awards ceremony to recognize the outstanding achievements of older workers.
Spotlight their contributions and loyalty, making them feel valued and appreciated. Acknowledging hard work creates a positive workplace culture for everyone.
Share Stories on Social Media
Highlight the careers of older team members by sharing their stories on social media. Create posts or short videos that showcase their career journeys and achievements.
Sharing these stories publicly celebrates their impact and shows a company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workforce.
History of National Older Workers Employment Week
National Older Workers Employment Week (NOWEW) began in the 1970s as a response to growing concerns about age discrimination and the lack of opportunities for older workers.
In 1971, President Richard Nixon first proclaimed a dedicated week to recognize the value that Americans over 45 bring to the workforce. His initiative aimed to challenge stereotypes and encourage employers to tap into this skilled labor pool.
In 1973, Nixon further solidified the focus by emphasizing public and private support to overcome employment barriers facing older adults. The week has since evolved, with a significant push in the 1990s and 2000s as baby boomers continued working well past traditional retirement ages.
Congress officially acknowledged this demographic shift, expanding the reach of NOWEW and supporting laws like the Age Discrimination in Employment Act.
This Act aimed to prevent employers from setting age limits and ensure that older workers had equal access to employment and advancement​.
As the program developed, the U.S. Department of Labor promoted it by introducing the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). SCSEP offers paid, community-based job training to low-income adults aged 55 and older, helping them stay active in the workforce and acquire new skills.
Today, NOWEW takes place every September, reflecting the modern trend of longer working lives and shifting workplace demographics.
Events across the country celebrate the experience and dedication of older workers while organizations and governments work together to make employment more accessible for everyone, regardless of age.​
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