STURGIS, S.D. (KBHB) – For many older South Dakotans, going back to work is not an option – it’s a necessity.

That’s why a local resource wants to make sure senior citizens know that a help is out there to help them overcome barriers to employment and get the skills they need to find good jobs in their communities.

The nonprofit organization Experience Works, Inc. was in Sturgis Tuesday at the Meade County Senior Citizens Center. The organization operates the Senior Community Service Employment Program or SCSEP.

SCSEP is a U.S. Department of Labor funded program, geared towards people 55-years and older who are unemployed, with limited annual incomes and limited job prospects.

Nora Gale is Employment and Training Coordinator for Experience Works and was taking applications today. She says SCSEP is an excellent way for older job seekers to earn a paycheck while they update job skills and discover possible new career opportunities.

Participants spend an average of 20 hours each work in work experience training at various public and nonprofit organizations.

Gale says SCSEP is a stepping stone to employment for older South Dakotans, and these working relationships pay big dividends for both participants and the public.