• Health
• Money
• Leisure
• Make a Difference
• Family
• Online Community
• Membership

Since graduation I have had the opportunity to attend four entirely different, yet career related events. What a great way to meet others in the field and learn of opportunites. 

I am thankful to our state AARP office and staff for an invitation to participate in one of the events called "Work @ 50+ - A New Age of Possibility. What a terrific event. The morning session included a keynote speaker and two panels. The first panel consisted of representatives of corporations  and a community college in the Grand Rapids, MI area. The second panel, of which I was a panelist, discussed job seeking experiences. Questions followed each panel discussion. During lunch, attendees had the opportunity to visit booths set up by area businesses, colleges and organizations. After lunch there were several workshops offered. I suggest that you check with your state and local AARP groups for opportunities such as this one.

While there, I learned of a service that AARP offers called SCSEP: Senior Community Service Employment Program. This program provides skills training and job placement assistance to low income mature job seekers. To see if there is a SCSEP program in your state or city go to: http://www.aarp.org.scsep  AARP has many job search aides. Contact your local or state office.

During the past two weeks, I have submitted resumes and cover letters for both paying and volunteer positions in the legal and governmental fields. Although I really want to land a paying job, I am anxious to use the skills I learned while earning my associates degree as a legal assistant. I have volunteered to work for a local non-profit organization which offers legal aide for seniors. I have submitted resumes to five Michigan State Representatives to work unpaid as an assistant. I am hoping to at least have the opportunity to interview for these positions.

Bob, my career counselor, has made some contacts for me with local temporary work services such as Manpower and Kelly. I am willing to do whatever it takes to gain experience and secure full time work.

I have been reading the journals of my fellow winners and am impressed with the progress they appear to be making. The important thing that I've gleaned from all of their journals is - Don't Give Up! I am anxious to meet them all at the national event in Washington, D.C.

I know it's been a while since I've written and I apologize to anyone who has been waiting to hear what has been happening. Things are moving a bit slowly, but I feel that I have been making some vital contacts through the events I've written about. I will be participating in another AARP Work @ 50+ Forum on July 11th in Battlecreek, MI. If you live in the area, I encourage you to sign up and attend. It will be worth the effort to get there!  Until my next entry...God's blessings to all!