Free “Back to Work: A Guide for Retirees” Program for Metro Detroit Starts Jan. 29

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Gesher Human Services Launches New Free Program “Back to Work: A Guide for Retirees” for Growing Number of Mature Metro Detroiters Seeking Employment; Starts Jan. 29.

  Gesher Human Services, one of the largest human service agencies in metro Detroit, is launching a new free program for retirees to not only help them find their passion in identifying potential career paths, but also to help manage their finances and navigate modern job search processes, including the use of AI. Gray Panthers NYC, an organization which combats ageism and advocates for economic justice for seniors, reported last year: “Retirement is no longer the one-way street it used to be. More and more seniors are deciding to delay retirement or even “unretire” by rejoining the workforce after initially retiring. This trend is expected to continue growing over the next decade.” It highlighted data from ChamberofCommerce.org which showed that over 21 percent of seniors nationwide are in the workforce and that this number is expected to rise to 30.7 percent for 65–74-year-olds by 2031 according to projections by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

In addition,

Fortune magazine recently reported on a study by Prudential Financial which showed that many mature adults were actually living well below their means because they were “daunted by the price tag of living until their nineties”. This concern, that retirement savings would no longer cover a long life, was also contributing to the unretirement phenomenon. Tapping into this need for employment guidance for mature adults, Gesher’s Back to Work: A Guide for Retirees offers three 90-minute classes on Jan. 29, Feb. 5 and Feb. 12 from 1-2.30 p.m. at its headquarters in Southfield (29699 Southfield Road) and is designed to empower retirees seeking to re-enter the workforce. Registration is at geshermi.org/events.

“We consistently get calls from people in their late 60s, 70s and even into their 80s asking us for help in finding employment,” explained Employment and Internship Specialist Gerard Baltrusaitis. “While we have offered programs in the past for retirees, our focus had been on trying to help people discover what might be the best fit for their skills. Recently we felt that there was also a need to assist retirees with managing their finances, particularly with knowledge about budgeting and savings, plus provide information on how to search for a job, which is likely to be a different experience from when they last applied.”

The three parts of the program include:

Part 1: Finding Your Passion: Discover how to leverage your unique experiences, skills, and passions to identify fulfilling career paths. We’ll explore techniques for self-assessment and explore various job options that align with your interests and goals.

Part 2: Budgeting for Your Future: Gain a clear understanding of your financial situation and set realistic budgeting goals. Learn how to assess your current income, expenses, and savings to make informed decisions about employment after retirement.

Part 3: Understanding the Job Search: Equip yourself with essential job search strategies and tools. Everything from job search sites, applying for jobs and uploading resumes will be covered. There will also be information on how AI can be used to assist with a resume, cover letter and enhance the job search process.

Baltrusaitis said there were many reasons why mature metro Detroiters wanted to re-enter the workforce, but social reasons, such as loneliness or feeling bored, and financial hardship were frequent motivators. “Inflation still remains high which is impacting the retirement funds of many metro Detroiters,” he said. “Getting back into the workforce, even for a few years, can make a big difference to their financial wellbeing.”

For more information contact Gerard Baltrusaitis gbaltrusaitis@geshermi.org or call 248-233-4288.

About Gesher Human Services

Gesher Human Services is a non-profit organization providing a bridge to hope and opportunity for people at work, at home and in the community. It is dedicated to helping people across metro Detroit lead more stable and fulfilling lives through workforce development, career mobility, behavioral health, inclusion programming and residential services that serve all metro Detroiters while meeting the needs of the Jewish community. The organization works with job seekers, people with disabilities, older adults, and the community at large to provide skills, support, and equitable opportunities for people to succeed. Uniting two of metro Detroit’s most influential Jewish human services agencies, JVS Human Services and Kadima, Gesher brings over 110 years of combined experience facilitating equitable employment opportunities and better mental health outcomes for residents. With a network of more than 400 employees and volunteers across 25 locations in southeast Michigan, Gesher delivers a continuum of services and support that directly impacts the lives of over 26,000 individuals and families annually. More information at www.geshermi.org.