What is Associates for Training and Development?
We are a nonprofit corporation that has been in operation for over 32 years. We administer training programs that help individuals age 55+ obtain or retain employment. The company was originally founded in 1983 as Vermont Associates for Training and Development, Inc. Since we have grown outside of Vermont, we now do business as Associates for Training and Development, or A4TD.
How are you funded?
We are primarily grant funded. Currently, we operate the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), a program of the United States Department of Labor. The SCSEP is funded under Title V of the Older Americans Act.
Where are you located?
We have 3 offices in Connecticut and 7 offices in Vermont. A list of our office locations can be found here.
What is the purpose of the SCSEP?
SCSEP provides training and employment services to people age 55+. To be eligible, people must also be currently unemployed and meet income requirements. SCSEP provides part-time, paid training positions in community service assignments at nonprofit agencies. The objective is to help people find and retain jobs. The SCSEP is a transitional training program, a bridge linking a mature worker to an improved life and economic independence.
How do I find out if I qualify for your programs?
The eligibility requirements of our program are established by federal law. You can review those requirements here, and also complete and application.
Do I have to pay to apply?
Absolutely not. There is no fee to participate in the SCSEP.
What are the benefits for an individual in the SCSEP?
Some of the benefits of SCSEP are earned wages, career counseling, annual physical examination funding, on-the-job training, help finding unsubsidized jobs, and access to other appropriate support services. SCSEP helps people get back on their feet so they can find and retain work.
What is a Host Agency?
A Host Agency, (sometimes called a Community Service Assignment) is an organization that provides training to a SCSEP participant. The Host Agency receives community service from the participant, in exchange for providing supervision while the individual trains. A Host Agency must be a governmental or 501(c)3 non-profit, non-partisan organization. Host Agencies might include (but are not limited to):
- Libraries
- Schools
- Homeless shelters
- Hospitals
- Animal rescue charities
- Museums
- Town Clerk Offices
What if I am interested, but I make too much money to qualify for SCSEP?
A4TD may still be able to help you. We have a network of training partners who do not have the same income restrictions, and we could provide you with some referrals to them. As well, many employers contact us looking for candidates, so if you’re looking for work we could help you get connected. Call or email us and see how we can help!
What wages are paid to SCSEP Participants?
Participants train 20 hours a week and receive minimum wage. We are limited to paying this wage by law. Our goal is to move participants into unsubsidized positions to increase their earnings well above minimum- and we have a strong record of success!
Will wages I earn in the SCSEP affect my eligibility when applying for additional support assistance such as state sponsored housing assistance, fuel assistance, etc.?
Wages paid under this program may be counted as earned income when determining if you qualify for extra help. Please contact the agency from which you receive services to determine the potential effect on you.
How do I become a Host Agency?
A4TD’s SCSEP participants contribute to hundreds of nonprofits in Vermont and Connecticut. To find out how an A4TD participant can benefit your nonprofit, call the office nearest you.
What if I am interested in hiring a SCSEP participant?
For information on finding a participant who fits your job description and requirements, contact the office nearest you or visit our job board to post your position for free.
How else can I help you assist older workers?
As a 501(c)3 charitable organization, we gladly accept tax deductible donations to help us expand our services to low-income seniors.
How do I find more information?
For answers to all your questions, call our toll free help line at 1-800-439-3307.
