PORT ANGELES – When Alana Collins of Forks needed to go back to work at age 61, she had the education but lacked experience to get a job. Through a Goodwill program for older workers, Colllins is paid for training at the Forks Clothing Bank, supervising volunteers, taking in donations and handling the cash register as she looks to become a manager.

“Goodwill opened the door for me,” Collins said. “I’ve been telling my friends Goodwill can help. They have a very worthwhile program and if you’re honestly intent on going back to work and it’s been a while since you’ve had a job, then the program is what you need.”

An informational meeting on the program, the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), will be held Aug. 5, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Port Angeles YMCA, 302 S. Francis St. For information, call Walter Schoenhofen, SCSEP Northern coordinator for Tacoma Goodwill, 360.456.0273 or wschoenhofen@tacomagoodwill.org. The meeting is for participants and public and non-profit employers, who have wages subsidized through the program.

“In these tough economic times, many older Americans have to work longer to earn enough money to support themselves,” said Terry A. Hayes, CEO of Tacoma Goodwill, with a 15-county service area that includes Clallam County. “Goodwill provides the opportunity for seniors to not only upgrade their skills but also learn new ones to remain competitive in the workplace.”

Without SCSEP, Collins said she would “probably be on the streets.” “I don’t think I could get a position,” she said.

Program participants must be at least 55 and have low income. Enrollment priority is given to persons over age 60 and individuals with disabilities or other barriers to employment.