By NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Bob Gilbert with the Prairie Independent Living Resource Center is looking for more older people that he can help get new jobs through the Older Kansans Employment Program.
"OKEP is funded by a state grant," Gilbert said. "It's a free service that we offer in Reno, Rice, Kingman, Harper and Pratt counties. It's only been in Hutchinson since 2018. The only eligibility requirements are you have to be 55 or better and a resident of Kansas."
It's awfully hard to get a job these days without at least some computer skills.
"One of the services that we help with is the application process," Gilbert said. "In a digital environment, we can help them apply. Also, once you submit an application, many times the employer wants you to fill out an assessment. Of course, that's online, too. We just did one yesterday and the person I was helping, it took about 20 minutes to get through the entire assessment and she was very frustrated. I was glad to be able to help her work through that."
Gilbert notes several strengths older workers bring to the table.
"An older worker brings dedication to a job," Gilbert said. "They've got a lot of experience. They are honest. They are punctual, detail oriented and they are good listeners."
If you'd like more information, you can email [email protected], or call him at (620) 259-5802.