After nearly five months of furloughed workers and funding uncertainty, TARCOG’s senior employment program is back in action and seeking 48 individuals aged 55 and older who are in need of a part-time community service job.
Starting on July 1, participants were furloughed due to potential federal funding cuts. On Nov. 16, Program Manager John Sanders received notification that furloughed workers could return to work, and the program is now funded through June 2026.
One of the biggest changes when the program was reinstated is a significant pay bump. Previously set at $7.25 per hour, the pay for participants in the current fiscal year has increased to $12 per hour, thanks to a pilot program. This increase allows participants to work up to 29 hours per week, offering much-needed financial support for seniors, many of whom are looking for part-time jobs to help make ends meet. The results of the pilot program will determine whether the higher pay continues after June 2026.
So far, 36 furloughed workers from DeKalb, Jackson, Limestone, Madison, and Marshall counties have returned to work. Other participants found jobs elsewhere and didn’t return, leaving 48 available slots in the program. John said there are openings in each county, including 16 in Madison County, 10 in Marshall County, 6 in Jackson County, 14 in DeKalb County, and 8 in Limestone County.
The program provides paid job training opportunities where individuals can learn new skills or enhance existing ones, with the ultimate goal of securing permanent employment. Participants can stay on the program for up to four years.
To qualify, applicants must be 55 or older, unemployed, and have a monthly income under 125 percent of the national poverty level. This year, the income threshold is $19,562.50 for one person or $26,437.50 for a family of two. However, there are other factors that may affect eligibility, and John encourages anyone interested to call and see if they qualify. For example, disability income is not counted as income for the senior employment program.
“Determining eligibility is a one-on-one process with a lot of questions,” John said. “If someone is interested in part-time employment to gain training for future opportunities, the best thing to do is call.”
Job placements are with public agencies or nonprofit organizations.
“The goal is for participants to leave our program with permanent employment,” he said. “Sometimes they are hired by the organization where they received training, or they find employment elsewhere.”
For more information or to check if you qualify, call TARCOG at (256) 830-0818.
TARCOG Senior Community Service Employment Program Manager John Sanders gives presentation on the program.