Older Workers

CAEL identifies opportunities for older adults to build on their skills and experiences to secure meaningful work and attain economic security.

Older workers can be among the workforce’s most experienced, skillful, and reliable contributors. As they approach the traditional retirement age, they may look for ways to continue contributing and supporting their financial needs—while leaving their longstanding careers. We help organizations identify and prepare older workers for new job opportunities that meet their needs and complement their abilities.

The Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) helps older workers return to school by placing them on the path to:
 

  • Being Valued for Decades of Experience
  • Having New Dreams Understood
  • Overcoming New Challenges 

CAEL SUCCESS STORIES ABOUT OLDER WORKERS

Read stories about programs CAEL has designed and implemented for older workers.

Better Government Programs for Older Adults

Challenge

An aging workforce requires new services and support systems.
 

Response

Three-year initiative to provide technical assistance to ten sites across the country. Each site received Department of Labor funding to design new models to assist older workers to prepare for jobs in growth industries. Strategies were developed to promote the successful transition of unemployed older adults into paid employment.

More information

Collaborators

  • Atlantic Philanthropies
    Atlantic Philanthropies

    The Atlantic Philanthropies are dedicated to bringing about lasting changes in the lives of disadvantaged and vulnerable people.

  • US Department of Labor
    US Department of Labor

    The United States Department of Labor fosters, promotes, and develops the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers, and retirees of the United States; improves working conditions; advances opportunities for profitable employment; and assures work-related benefits and rights.

Green Jobs for Older Workers

Challenge

Identify jobs in the green economy that are appropriate for older workers and that build on their
prior skills
 

Response

Documented job families in three sub sectors of the green economy which are appropriate for older adults with varied skills and experience

Created a list of criteria and database of jobs in the green economy that can be filled by older workers

More information

Collaborators

  • Civic Ventures
    Civic Ventures

    Civic Ventures is a think tank on boomers, work and social purpose. Through an inventive program portfolio, original research, strategic alliances and the power of people’s life stories, Civic Ventures demonstrates the value of experience in solving serious social problems – from education to the environment, health care to homelessness.

  • MetLife Foundation
    MetLife Foundation

    MetLife Foundation was created in 1976 by MetLife to continue its longstanding tradition of contributions and community involvement. The goal is to empower people to lead healthy, productive lives and strengthen communities. Underlying the Foundation's programs is a focus on education at all ages and a commitment to increasing access and opportunity.