by Mary P. Brooke    |         February 3, 2010

The Prime Time employment program (through WorkLink Employment Society in Sooke) is seeking local employers for a group of 10 program participants ages 55+.

Members of the Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce are being approached for any 'new hiring opportunities for this group of older workers.

"Our participants have a wide range of skills and experience. I am hoping to match these potential employees with local employers," says Mark Whiteson, job developer, WorkLink. Both full-time and part-time positions are sought.

"Hopefully this service will save Sooke companies time and money in looking for qualified workers," said Whiteson. The program offers a wage subsidy that can provide employers a further opportunity to offset costs.

Whiteson explained that mature workers are often favoured by employers for reasons of low absenteeism and a generally a wider range of skills than younger workers who are just starting out.

The WorkLink program realizes that one adult in need of work is 'what they see' but that behind each potential employee is a person who either helps support a family or is relied upon in some way by others. A stable career for one person has socio-economic impact for others.

The WorkLink phone number is 250-642-3685. Mark Whiteson can be reached at mwhiteson@worklink.bc.ca

WorkLink is a job preparation and job search organization with two offices serving the west shore of Vancouver Island (in the Seaview Plaza at D-6625 Sooke Road in Sooke, and the other in Colwood at 2234 Sooke Road). Services are provided at no cost to the user; funding is generally from government grant sources. MM