http://ozarkspub.vo.llnwd.net/o37/KSMU/audio/mp3/18thannual_1507.mp3
The number of older workers has grown over the years.
Experience Works a non-profit organization celebrates outstanding older works each year.
On April, 3 the organization recognized Donald Mason, a 78 year old worker for the Taney County Airport.
KSMU's Erika Brame was there and files this report.
The dining room at the Manor at Elfindale was filled with workers nominated for their excellence on the job.
They were there for the Outstanding Older Worker Recognition Ceremony for the Ozark Region.
The afternoon opened with a series of speakers and music from the Home-school Orchestra.
Pam Cotter, Employment and Training Coordinator for Experience Works, helped open the ceremony with a warm welcome.
Cotter says the Experience Works Program not only awards those workers who have excelled in the work force but helps seniors with job placements.
"To help them upgrade their income, get them some work skills, and to try to help them find a job to get back into the work force."
She says the Outstanding Older Workers Awards started many years ago and recognizes older workers.
"Well it started 18 years ago. And these are people that are employed that are 55 and older, and they are employed, they work 20 or more hours a week, and are a resident of the State of Missouri."
Susan Jackson-Falls, who is with the Buffalo, Missouri region for Experience Works, says older workers have a lot to contribute to the work force.
"They have a strong work ethic, very dependable, and they're very loyal. And have a wealth of experience to bring to the table. And this event was designed to celebrate that and demonstrate that older works have so much to give."
Eight workers were nominated for the Ozark Region by their employers.
Donald Mason, a 78 year old worker for the Taney County Airport won the award.
Cotter says there are 15 regions in Missouri and each winner will head to Jefferson City on May 1st and 2nd.
The winner for the state of Missouri will be recognized and sent to Washington D.C. for the Experience Works Prime Time Awards.
For more information about Experience Works you can call 1-800-368-7569 or visit our website.
For KSMU News I'm Erika Brame.
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