Meet Dormika Scruggs. She’s been with TARCOG nearly nine years and is now the program director of the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP.)
“We are excited to announce that Dormika is taking the lead on this program that helps empower aging job seekers to learn new skills and find employment opportunities,” said TARCOG’s Director of Aging Programs Sheila Dessau-Ivey.
Dormika is taking over the role formerly held by John Sanders, who retired earlier this month.
Throughout her TARCOG career, Dormika has been a dedicated advocate for clients in the north Alabama region, connecting them with resources that support independence and quality of life. For nearly nine years she has been a case manager and personal choices counselor in the Medicaid Waiver Program where she has helped aging and disabled clients receive care and services needed to remain in their home. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is working toward a master’s in clinical psychology.
Sheila said Dormika brings both compassion and expertise to her work.
Dormika said she was interested in the new position because she is passionate about helping individuals maintain independence and improve their quality of life.
“After years of working with the aging and disabled populations, I wanted to expand my experience into the community through employment and workforce training,” she said. “This type of engagement can positively impact seniors’ confidence, financial stability, and overall well-being.”
The SCSEP 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. For example, disability income is not counted as income for the senior employment program.
“It’s an easy conversation so if anyone is interested in the opportunity, just give me a call,” Dormika said. Within her first month, she’s already signed up several job seekers and is networking to connect with potential job seekers and hosting agencies.
Job placements are with public agencies or nonprofit organizations.
“I look forward to growing the participation in the program,” she said. “Our goal is for participants to leave our program with permanent employment.”
For more information or to check if you qualify, call TARCOG at (256) 830-0818.
Dormika Scruggs is the new director of TARCOG’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)