Senior friendly businesses wanted! The State Workforce Board’s (SWB) Older Workers Committee is looking for Maine’s best employers for people over the age of 50. The Silver Collar Employer Award honors employers whose policies and practices are senior friendly, matching the needs of mature employees, capturing their skills and experience, strong work ethic, flexibility and enthusiasm.

“Silver Collar employers understand the value older workers provide to business,” said Governor Paul R. LePage. “Maine’s older citizens play a vital role in our economy as both workers and consumers. Businesses that recognize this will benefit both themselves and our state.”

Senior FriendlySenior friendly business nomination entries must be postmarked by August 1, 2016. Businesses may self-nominate. The Older Workers Committee will consider a business’ flexible work options, training and development opportunities, pension and health benefits, and age-neutral policies and practices. Silver Collar Employers will be honored during National Employ Older Workers Week, September 26–30, 2016.

The Senior-Friendly nomination form is available at http://maine.gov/swb/documents/index.shtml . Employers or anyone with questions should contact the State Workforce Board (SWB) at swb.dol@maine.gov or 207-623-7985.

Older workers play an important role in Maine’s workforce. Maine is the oldest state in the United States, with a median age of 43.5 years. More than a quarter of the civilian labor force is over 55 years old. This share is expected to increase between 2014 and 2024.

Senior Friendly is Important

Between 2014 and 2024, the impact of minimal population growth and an aging population on Maine’s labor force will be partially offset by an expected increase in participation across age groups, particularly among our oldest workers. By 2024, more than two thirds of 55–64 year olds and nearly one quarter of those over age 65 will still be in the labor force.

For more information about the SWB or workforce development, visit http://www.maine.gov/swb/ .