AARP: Welcome to today's chat with AARP President Rob Romasco.

Rob Romasco: Hi, and welcome to today's live chat on resources for experienced workers and job seekers.

Before we get started I just want to say that our thoughts are with the victims of Hurricane Sandy. We at AARP want to help as well. We've committed through AARP Foundation to match your donation dollar for dollar to help Sandy victims if you donate via this link, up to $500,000: bit.ly/Tq8ucy.

Go to our website and make your contribution, and your dollar will count twice as much.

Now let's get to your questions.

Comment From Karl: Older workers need help! What is AARP doing to help us find jobs?

Rob Romasco: Good question, Karl. AARP is here to help and you’re not alone.

Let me tell you about the newest resource. Millions of our members are still working – some because they enjoy it, some because they need the income.

That’s why we created a new workforce program called Work Reimagined, the first talent exchange dedicated to directly connecting experienced job seekers with organizations seeking top talent, leveraging the power of social media through LinkedIn.

Over 150 employers (and counting!) have signed a pledge saying they support experienced workers, they recruit across diverse age groups and they consider all applicants on an equal basis.

The Work Reimagined website, www.WorkReimagined.org, has a complete list. They include General Mills, CVS Caremark, AT&T, Walgreens, UnitedHealth Group, Lowe’s, Harvard and many others across the country.

So definitely check out www.WorkReimagined.org.

Comment From Nancy: Are there honestly companies that think older workers are worth hiring?

Rob Romasco: There certainly are! AARP has a program called the AARP Best Employers for Workers Over 50, which recognizes organizations that have programs and practices to attract and retain top talent.

AARP has run this program for 11 years. It highlights employers that offer great recruiting practices, a good workplace culture, solid health and retirement benefits, flexible work options, and generally good practices that value people with experience and good work habits.

Check out www.aarp.org/bestemployers to learn more about the program and view the list of the 2011 winners. Many of these employers are also participating in the Work Reimagined program.

Comment From David: I’m 61 years old, and I need to keep working. How realistic do you think it is for someone my age to be thinking about starting my own business?

Rob Romasco: David, lots of people your age are starting their own businesses. In fact, last year more than 7 million self-employed people in the United States were over 50.

To help you and others with this challenge, AARP has linked up with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide counseling and training to people over the age of 50 who want to start or expand a small business.

Visit www.aarp.org/startabusiness to learn more. And good luck to you.

Next: How can older workers compete when college grads are willing to work for so much less? »