Small Business Solutions Meeting Aims To Foster Local Networking And Community Engagement

The 17 North Event Center will host an informal gathering of business owners, organization representatives, and interested residents on Monday, November 13, at 5:30 p.m. This event, known as the Small Business Solutions Meeting, is set to provide a unique opportunity for the local community to connect, brainstorm ideas, and propose solutions to various challenges faced by small businesses and the workforce. In addition, the meeting aims to generate local interest in the Senior Community Services Employment Program (SCSEP), which plays a vital role in supporting low-income, unemployed seniors.

The Senior Community Services Employment Program (SCSEP) is a community service and work-based job training program for older Americans, authorized by the Older Americans Act. SCSEP offers training and employment assistance to low-income, unemployed seniors through American Job Centers. Participants engage in a variety of community service activities at non-profit and public facilities, contributing over 40 million community service hours to public and non-profit agencies.

Participants in SCSEP work an average of 20 hours per week and are paid the highest of federal, state, or local minimum wage. This program serves as a stepping stone to unsubsidized employment opportunities for seniors who participate, offering them valuable work experience and training.

To be eligible for the program, participants must meet specific criteria. They should be at least 55 years old, unemployed, and have a family income of no more than 125% of the federal poverty level. Enrollment priority is given to veterans and qualified spouses, followed by individuals who are over 65, have a disability, have low literacy skills or limited English proficiency, reside in rural areas, are homeless or at risk of homelessness, have low employment prospects, or have been unsuccessful in finding employment through the American Job Center system.

The Small Business Solutions Meeting, scheduled for November 13, will provide an excellent platform for local business owners, community organizations, and residents to learn about SCSEP and how it benefits the community. Attendees can also take part in discussions about ways to support small businesses and the local workforce.

This event presents an opportunity for the community to come together and brainstorm innovative solutions to address the needs of small businesses, as well as provide valuable support to seniors through the SCSEP program. It's a chance for collaboration, networking, and community engagement.