West Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging to hold job fair May 21 at Senior Center

QUINCY — The West Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging is the host of a job fair at the Illinois Senior and Family Resource Center, 639 York, from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 21.

Mary Crawford, field representative for the WCIAAA, believes a stereotype exists around the over-age-50 job seeker.

“Older workers are overlooked when employers are seeking to fill open positions,” Crawford said in a press release. “For example, it’s assumed that people who did not grow up using computers will never be able to learn to use technology. I am in no way suggesting that all employers do this, but bias against these groups is still present in our societies.”

The job fair also is offering a workshop employers focusing on the benefits of hiring the plus-50 crowd, including veterans and the disabled. Information will be offered on potential tax benefits and local training programs. Another workshop will provide prospective employees with tips on interviewing and speaking to their skill sets to employers.

Leonard hopes to have around 25 businesses at the fair.

“This fair has a mission to support workers of all ages as they seek employment,” she said. “It’s an integral part of creating a dynamic, sustainable workforce which, in turn, promotes economic health.”

Businesses and job seekers who want information on the job fair or workshops should contact Crawford at wciaaa@wciagingnetwork.org.