Northern Kentucky University receives AmeriCorps grant to partner with Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission
The partnership will result in the Senior Workforce Program, which will serve adults aged 55 and over as they pursue new skills and workforce training.
Northern Kentucky University has received a grant from AmeriCorps which has facilitated a partnership between the university and the Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission. The university and the NKCAC will provide adults aged 55 and over with workforce and upskill training through the Senior Workforce Program.
According to an article on Northern Kentucky University’s website, Rhonda Chisenhall, who serves as the Vice President of Community Development for the Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission, was quoted as saying of the partnership, “We are thrilled to be a partner with NKU in helping Northern Kentucky adult learners achieve their goals. The Senior Workforce Program assists low to moderate-income seniors in gaining the education and work experience necessary to achieve a job in the financial industry making a livable wage. This funding from AmeriCorps Seniors allows us to pilot a unique program giving seniors access to the tools necessary to help them be successful in their second careers.”
The Senior Workforce Program will allow adult learners to earn college credit at Northern Kentucky University. Those who participate in the program can expect to complete it within two years. The courses offered in the program will help individuals learn the skills they need to pursue career advancement opportunities, as well as assist them with tax and financial skills in courses that have been specifically tailored to be beneficial for adults 55 and over.
The program is free, thanks to the grant from AmeriCorps. In addition to the courses, the Senior Workforce program will give participants access to support services and opportunities like job placement assistance and networking opportunities, all of which are useful for individuals seeking to make a career or industry change.
Jennifer Bastress Tahmasebi, the Interim Agency Head of AmeriCorps, said, “AmeriCorps is dedicated to expanding skill and career building opportunities for all Americans. Older Americans are one of our nation’s greatest resources, representing a large and often overlooked section of the workforce. Programs like this ensure older Americans gain the skills they need to pursue a new career and adapt to a dynamic and evolving economy.”
Lee Kersting, who serves as the chair of the Department of Accounting, Economics and Finance at NKU’s Haile College of Business, shared, “We are so proud of what this incredible initiative has been able to achieve so far. By providing valuable educational opportunities to those who need them most, we are widening the scope of accessibility in higher education and creating an environment that empowers students to achieve their goals no matter their age or background.”
For more information about Northern Kentucky University, visit the school’s website.