Silver Collar Awards presented to Associates for Training and Development, Care and Comfort, Community Health Options, and Moody?s Co-Worker Owned, Inc.

November 16, 2017

Lewiston, Gorham and Waterville-based businesses recognized as senior-friendly employers.

For Immediate Release: November 16 2017

Media Contact: Laura Hudson, Maine Department of Labor, 621-5009

AUGUSTA ? The State Workforce Board?s Older Worker Committee presented the Silver Collar Award in October to 2017?s best employers for workers over the age of 50 in Maine. The awardees are Care & Comfort, Community Health Options, Moody?s Co-Worker Owned, Inc., and Associates for Training and Development.

?I congratulate this year?s winners for recognizing the value that different employees bring to our workforce,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?Our state needs and values the contributions of all members of our workforce, no matter their age, and the Silver Collar Awards recognize businesses who put these values into action.?

The Silver Collar Employer Award honors employers whose policies and practices match the needs of mature employees, capturing their skills and experience, strong work ethic, flexibility, and enthusiasm.

Associates for Training and Development provides training and employment services to workers age 55+. Associates for Training and Development adjust duties and responsibilities when appropriate to make the most of each person?s talents, and offer a mentoring program and flexibility in the workplace.

Care & Comfort has been providing professional home health and mental health services to Maine residents since 1991. Care & Comfort provides an excellent benefit package, such as flexibility, training and on-the-job coaching for older workers.

Community Health Options is a non-profit, member-led health insurance plan providing comprehensive health insurance benefits to individuals, families, and businesses. Community Health Options provides a Workplace Flexibility and Transition program.

Moody?s Co-worker Owned, Inc., is a technically-advanced company using computer software and tools that are cutting edge for the automotive industry. Thirty-three percent of Moody's company is over the age of 50; they pride themselves on a very diverse group from 18-70 years old.

Maine is the oldest state in the nation, with a median age of 44.5 years. Today, workers age 55 and over comprise one quarter of the labor force. That share is expected to rise over the next decade as the large baby boom generation advances in age.

The State Workforce Board (SWB) is responsible for assisting Governor LePage in improving the state?s business climate by designing and implementing strategies that help Mainers enter the workforce as well as advance by increasing their skills. For more information about the SWB or workforce development, visit http//www.maine.gov/swb.

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