Benjamin Westley learned about Goodwill’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) in 2013. A serious car accident, caused by a diabetic blackout, left him unable to return to his janitorial duties at the St. Vincent Heart Center.
He was eager to return work, despite being permanently disabled from the car accident.
“I was bored sitting at home all the time, but there aren’t many opportunities at my age for a new career.”
The SCSEP job training and assistance program for persons 55 and over helped Benjamin learn new computer skills and how to build a resume, interview for a job and manage money.
“I learned how to increase my credit score by 300 points,” Benjamin said. “I also saved enough money to purchase a vehicle.”
He initially worked at Madame Walker Theatre as a greeter, but was placed into a permanent position at Meijer as a Utility Worker in February 2017. Even at retirement age, he often works 40 hours each week.
“It’s been good for me to be on my feet,” Benjamin said. “I’ve lost weight and I’m managing my diabetes well. SCSEP has been a blessing.”
He plans to use his upcoming vacation time to visit his grandchildren in California.
Visit www.goodwillindy.org/employment-services/ to see if you qualify for SCSEP, and to fill out our online application.