Arkansas: Census Burerau Issues Profile of the Older Worker

In a continuation of its partnership with 31 states on a series of reports on workers 55 and older, the Census Bureau has released its report on Arkansas, the fifth state to be released in the series. Among the highlights of the report--"The Geographic Distribution and Characteristics of Older Workers in Arkansas: 2004":

• 14.3% of the workers in 2004 were 55 and older and 3.1% of the workers were 65 and older; and
• of the 75 counties in Arkansas 20% or more of the workforce in three counties was 55 or older in 2004.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau News Release (November 8, 2007)

Other Sources: Arkansas Democrat-Gazette "No rocking chair just yet for many" (November 25, 2007)

Arkansas Mature Workplace Initiative Encouraging Employers To Hire Older Workers

At a regional meeting focusing on the Arkansas Mature Worker Initiative, representatives from three local companies said older workers are key factors to daily operations. According to an article by Chandra Huston for the Baxter Bulletin, more and more "retirees" are heading back to the workforce.

Ranger Boats Human Resources Director Cheryl Davenport said 62 percent of the company's 850 employees are older than 45. She said mature workers are exactly what the business needs because of their experience.

In addition, Cameron Davis, store manager for Wal-Mart in Mountain Home, said d that people come to the area after retirement but realize they want to go back to work and, "Surprisingly, wages are not a big consideration for them. . . . "They just want to do something."

Source: Baxter Bulletin "Employers turn to mature workers" (November 2, 2006)

Other Sources: Arkansas Department of Worforce Services Arkansas Mature Workforce Initiative

Arkansas Announces Mature Worker Initiative

Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee has announced a new workforce development program--the Arkansas Mature Worker Initiative. This program will highlight featured employers who have made a commitment to hire mature workers, many of which companies have offices in Arkansas.

“It’s encouraging to see these companies recognize the value of the countless mature workers we have in Arkansas,” said Gov. Mike Huckabee. “I hope more employers see these workers are known to have essential qualities needed for today’s jobs, including loyalty, dedication and responsibility.”

After rolling out a program on the national level, AARP selected Arkansas as a pilot state, and Gov. Huckabee selected the initiative as one of his top priorities for the Arkansas Workforce Investment Board. Several regional meetings will be held across the state to inform employers about the initiative, at which a panel of employers will discuss the initiative and how their companies have benefited from hiring mature workers.

Source: News Release Department of Workforce Services (April 12, 2006)