Ohio Department of Aging
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Ohio is witnessing a dramatic growth in the number of citizens who are 55 or older - a trend that will continue well into the 21st century. By 2008, 40 percent of the labor force will be age 45 or older, and eight million more Americans age 55 or older will be in the labor force than in 1998.
Americans aged 55 or older are a dedicated and experienced core of our workforce. Their contributions to the nation as paid workers and volunteers in both the private and public sectors are immeasurable.
This population of mature workers includes individuals who are retiring at young ages and want second careers, individuals who choose to work beyond age 65, and some who want a regular source of income, but not necessarily a full time job.
Employers rate older workers high on factors such as judgment, commitment to quality, attendance and punctuality. These qualities, coupled with their sense of loyalty, make older workers an attractive resource for employers seeking workers and possibly mentors for younger workers.
FOR ALL OF THESE REASONS, I, TED STRICKLAND, Governor of the State of Ohio, proclaim the week of September 23-29, 2007 as Employ Older Workers Week in Ohio. I urge all Ohio businesses to explore this untapped resource of talent that is available in older Ohio workers.
On this 21st day of September, 2007;
Ted Strickland
Governor
Ohio Department of Aging