Honor An Outstanding Older Worker

Do you know of a relative, a neighbor, or a co-worker who is 65 or over and still working? Would you like them to receive national recognition for their life's work and for contributing to their local community? Nominations are now being accepted for the Experience Works Prime Time Awards program, which recognizes an outstanding older worker from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, as well as America's Oldest Worker and top employers of older workers.

Over 65 And Still Working?

To be considered for a state's outstanding older worker or America's Oldest Worker, applicants must be currently employed, work a minimum of 20 hours per week in paid employment, be age 65 or older, and be willing to travel to Washington, D.C., in September 2006.

In 2005, Dwight Hauff, 100, owner of Hauff Sporting Goods in Sioux City, Iowa, was named America's Oldest Worker. All of the past oldest workers have been over 100 years old and working almost full time at their professions. They have included a 102-year-old real estate developer, a 102-year-old professor, a 100-year-old architect, and a 102-year-old manufacturer.

In 2004, 100-year-old Ella Clarke Nuite, owner of a spring water company, was the first woman to receive the award.

Last Year Average Age Was 80

In past years, the outstanding older workers have ranged in age from 66 to 100. Last year, the average age was 80. Honorees participate in special activities and events throughout the year in their states and in Washington, D.C., in September.