| Experience Works, a nonprofit organization has funds available to help small businesses in Joplin grow by assisting them in the recruitment, training and employment of mature workers. Services are available at no cost to any employer with 100 employees or less with funding provided by grants from the Small Business Administration.
The program helps small businesses save time, money and training costs, by matching them with qualified candidates for a variety of positions. Funds are also available to provide customized training and ongoing support to newly hired employees. Other services may include reimbursing an employer for up to half of the employee’s wages during the initial training period and screening and interviewing applicants.
“Employers that want an effective and dedicated workforce cannot afford to overlook mature workers to fill a variety of jobs,” said Sheila Thomas who coordinates Experience Works Small Business Program in southwest Missouri. “This program can provide great employees and a better bottom line for the company.”
By 2012, individuals ages 55 to 64 in the workforce is expected to grow by more than 50%, and many skilled workers ages 50 and over have been affected by downsizing and increased competition for jobs.
Small businesses who want to learn more about the Experience Works Small Business Program may contact Thomas at (417) 887-1704 or by sending an e-mail here. Go Back | 
