Free Thrive 45+ Program Offers Mature Metro Detroiters Support and Empowerment to Navigate the Job Market with Confidence

Photo by Marten Newhall on Unsplash

Gesher Human Services in Southfield offering new four week, in-person program, starting Feb. 9!

 SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (Jan 2026) – Gesher Human Services, one of the largest human service agencies in metro Detroit, has a new program for mature job seekers called Thrive 45+. The program will be held on Feb. 9, 16, 23 and Mar. 2 from 10 a.m. to 11. 30 a.m. at Gesher’s headquarters in Southfield (29699 Southfield Road) and will provide job search strategies, resume assistance, LinkedIn updates, identification of skills and strengths and much more. Unemployment claims in Michigan rose earlier this month according to the US Department of Labor; for the week ending Jan. 10, new jobless numbers (which indicate layoffs) were 19,081 compared with the prior week where the number was 15,209. Gesher is offering Thrive 45+ to assist workers who may have been in the same job for many years, find themselves unemployed and who are then faced with a job search landscape that has changed dramatically. The classes will also be suitable for workers who are currently employed but who want to reevaluate their skills and perhaps look for a new career opportunity.

“Every week we have people in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond calling us because they need a job but are really struggling to find one because the job search process has changed so much. For example, the use of AI for applicant tracking means that key words must be included in your application,” explained career counselor Sherrie James. “It is very frustrating for people. Then, if they get an interview, that can seem very daunting if they haven’t been had an interview in 20 years and don’t feel adequately prepared.”

James added that age discrimination continues to be an issue for older workers,

so understanding how to present a resume is vital. In addition, if computer skills are not appropriate for today’s job market, these need to be addressed; Gesher is also able to provide computer training classes.

“Thrive 45+ is a way to help metro Detroiters refresh their job search strategies and then re-enter the workforce with confidence,” added James. “Also, taking part in a program with other adults in a similar position offers camaraderie and support.”

Participants in the program will:

• Identify their strengths and transferable skills
• Update LinkedIn for a stronger professional presence
• Learn updated and effective job-search strategies
• Refresh their resume and interview toolkit
• Build confidence and gain clarity on employment possibilities

To register for Thrive 45+ go to www.geshermi.org/events. For more information contact Sherrie James at sjames@geshermi.org or call 248.233.4472. One on one career counseling is also available at employmenthelp@geshermi.org

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, individuals with disabilities, older adults, and the broader community to provide the skills, support, and equitable opportunities necessary for people to succeed. Gesher draws on over 110 years of combined experience to facilitate equitable employment opportunities and enhance mental health outcomes for Metro Detroiters. With a network of almost 500 employees and volunteers across more than 25 locations in southeast Michigan, Gesher delivers a continuum of services and support that directly impacts the lives of nearly 34,000 individuals and families annually. More information at www.geshermi.org.