By 2022, older adults are projected to make up 35% of the civilian labor force.

“Sourcewise celebrates the generational diversity, experience, and skills seniors possess,” said Henri Villalovoz, Director of Senior Employment Services and Meals on Wheels for Sourcewise.

On September 26, 2018, Sourcewise recognized five Santa Clara County residents and employers for outstanding achievements at the annual National Employ Older Workers Week luncheon.

The National Employ Older Worker’s Week is observed the last week of September and is a nationwide effort to highlight contributions made by the 55 and older workforce.

Expanding economic opportunities for older workers in Santa Clara County, Sourcewise provides Senior Employment Services; one of the nation’s first programs to help low-income, unemployed individuals aged 55+ to find employment through personalized career counseling, on-the-job training, and transition to unsubsidized employment.

For the past 19 years, Villalovoz has developed one of the most successful programs in California, which he attributes to the strong, mutually-beneficial collaborations with community based organizations and local employers.

Villalovoz said, “Our effective partner organizations and dedicated staff make us successful in meeting annual goals to provide older adults with training and on-the-job experience, which is invaluable in today’s quickly changing environment.”

The following individuals exemplified dedication, commitment, and excellence to the elder workforce in Santa Clara County. This year’s honorees include:

Employee of the Year

Samar Quasto, Administrative Operations for Catholic Charities. Now working full-time as an Administrative Assistant for Catholic Charities

Supervisor Award

Pai Venegas, Director of Programs of Silicon Valley Independent Living Center

Nelson Leonor, Employment Program Manager for EDD Workforce—America’s Job Center

Host Training Agency of the Year Award

Work2future Foundation, accepted by Casandra Nash, Facility Manager

Employer of the Year Award

Eila Phailibus Latif, Deputy Director Economic Development Services, Catholic Charities

Learn more about Sourcewise Senior Employment Services: (408) 350-3200, option 5.