Older Workers

The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is operated by Goodwill Industries and is work-based job training program for older Americans. The program provides training for low-income, unemployed seniors. SCSEP participants gain work experience in a variety of community service activities at non-profit and public facilities, including schools, hospitals, day-care centers, and senior centers. Participants work an average of 20 hours a week, and are paid the highest of federal, state or local minimum wage. This training serves as a bridge to unsubsidized employment opportunities for participants. Visit this site for more information on this program.

The Virginia Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS) provides resources and services to improve the employment, quality of life, security, and independence of older Virginians, Virginians with disabilities, and their families. Click below to find out more about their services and how to contact them.

The Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (VDDHH) works to reduce the communication barriers between persons who are deaf or hard of hearing and those who are hearing, including family members, service providers, and the public. Below are some of their services:

VA RELAY

The telecommunications system for the deaf and hard of hearing communities in Virginia. It allows individuals to use specialized telecommunication devices or features to communicate with standard telephone users.

 

TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Provides adaptive telecommunication equipment to qualified applicants whose hearing loss or disabilities prevent them from using a standard telephone.

 

SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETERS

The interpreter services program includes a Directory of Qualified Interpreters and Interpreter Services Coordination.

To receive information and training about local services including where to find sign language classes, support services, and the technical equipment needed to aid persons who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing with their communication needs, visit the National Association of the Deaf website.

The Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI) is committed to providing quality services to assist Virginia’s citizens who are blind, deafblind or vision impaired in achieving their maximum level of employment, education, and personal independence. Click below for more information about the programs and services they provide.

Providing peer counseling, independent living skills training, advocacy and information and referral, the Blue Ridge Independent Living Center in Roanoke works to assist disabled individuals live independently.