After 10 years we are closing our doors*...but we are opening a window into the nonprofit world.
Age discrimination may be illegal but for women over fifty this form of discrimination has become the rule for women seeking employment.
Long term unemployment is at epedemic proportions for women over fifty. Government statistics show the national unemployment rate is 9.1% (09/2011). Statistics also show that women over the age of 50 have a rate of unemployment at 7.6% and unlike their younger counterparts they are less likely to be considered for employment. These women usually have long term unemployment (over 27 weeks) and are usually the primary source of income for their families.
Unemployment insurance does not cover all the necessities for survival while seeking employment and many states have cut or are considering cuts for long term unemployed payments. This will send more and more people into real and sustained poverty. State governments also consider people receiving unemployment ineligible for medicaid and food stamps, yet COBRA medical care is at $500 a month and climbing and food costs are doubling for everyone.
Empowering Women Over Fifty (working title) seeks to help women over 50 with financial aid, job training and employment.
We are currently looking for start up money, board members, advisory board members and volunteers to create this not for profit organization. Please email femonfire1@verizon.net for more information.
Primary Mission: To provide grants or no interest loans to women over 50 unable to find full time employment. The grants and loans will help them with their basic needs: rent/mortgage payments, food, utilitiy payments and emergency medical/dental care.
Secondary Mission: An emergency fund will also be established for women in dire need.
Long range Mission: Provide free or low cost job training and job placement for the same group. As the organization grows we will partner with the educational community to provide free or low cost retraining and seek job placement for our clients through all avenues.
Client Process: A needs assessment will be performed for each client and approval will be sought within a 30 day window. Three board members will review the assessment for approval.
Funding: The organization will seek donations from the general public plus the help of city, region, state and national governments, corporations and organizations to partner with the Foundation.
*Clients seeking information on speakers Patricia Ireland, Himilce Novas or Abby Ellin please email femonfire1@verizon.net.
