America is witnessing a dramatic growth in the number of citizens 55 or older, a trend that will continue through the 21st century. As the population ages, older Americans will play an increasingly important role in our economy and America’s leadership in the world marketplace. National Employ Older Workers Week recognizes the vital role of older workers in the workforce.

By 2014, 41% of Americans 55 or older will be employed, making up over 21% of the U.S. labor force. The Committee on Economic Development indicates that employers rate older workers high on characteristics such as judgment, commitment to quality, attendance, and punctuality. National Employ Older Workers Week aims to increase awareness of this labor segment and develop innovative strategies to tap it.

National Employ Older Workers Week also showcases the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), which provides on-the-job skills training to individuals 55 or older with limited financial resources. Since its inception, SCSEP has helped over one million older Americans enter the workforce.

This year, National Employ Older Workers Week is September 24-28, 2012. It is held annually in the last full week of September.