Reny?s Receives Older Worker Award

September 24, 2009

Augusta - In recognition of National Employ Older Workers Week, the Older Worker Committee of the Maine Jobs Council presented its third annual Silver Collar Award to R.H. Reny?s Inc. at the Augusta Job Expo this week.

?Reny?s recognizes business practices that demonstrate an appreciation of both the qualities and needs of Maine?s older workers, including offering part-time and seasonal employment, reimbursement for training, and mentoring and peer training for new employees,? said Fortman.

The company provides flexible benefits, alternative work schedules, and workplace accommodations to support older workers. All Reny?s employees, including older workers, receive technical and basic computer training.

Accepting the award were John Reny, Mary Kate Reny, and the newest family member to join the company, Faustine Reny.

In accepting the Silver Collar Award, John Reny commented, ?we?re very proud and pleased to get this award. Over half of our workforce is over 50 years old.?

The Reny?s chain of discount stores is based in Newcastle and consists of 14 Maine locations. The company employs between 375 and 475 employees.

The Older Worker Committee of the Maine Jobs Council promotes the value of Maine?s older workers through advocacy, education, and policy development to meet the needs of workers and employers. The Older Worker Committee instituted the ?Silver Collar Employer Award? to recognize employers in Maine whose policies and practices match the needs of mature employees.

A resource guide for older workers, along with other resource information, can be found at the Older Workers Committee website: www.maine.gov/labor/mjc/committees/older_worker