TCC’s program helps adults gain new skills

By — Tee Townsend

The Plus 50 program gives adults over 50 a chance to learn new skills from technical to office. The program also allows adults to connect socially.Collegian file photos
The Plus 50 program gives adults over 50 a chance to learn new skills from technical to office. The program also allows adults to connect socially.
Collegian file photos

TCC’s Plus 50 program offers opportunities for adults over 50 to reinvent themselves.

The Plus 50 program lets adults “decide what they want to be when they grow up,” special project coordinator Debra Sykes West said.

The program uses workforce training programs, resources and referrals to help the participants “get new skills or maintain and refresh the skills they have,” Sykes West said.

Unlike the regular continuing education student at TCC, this program specifically addresses the needs of those 50 and over. Plus 50 participants may live off retirement incomes insufficient for their daily needs. They may also be unemployed or underemployed. Whatever the circumstance, if they desire to re-enter the workforce, they will require new skills, and the program can help, Sykes West said.

The Plus 50 program offers all types of technical skills, office skills and health-related skills. The program works closely with the Alliance Opportunity Center, which connects the program with companies currently hiring, Sykes West said.Gamenight

The cost of the program is the same as that for the traditional student. However, the American Association of Retired Persons provides scholarship opportunities for those in need based on income. In addition, the program looks for resources to help lower the cost of participation.

Plus 50 offers informational sessions for anyone interested in learning more about the program. The next session will be 4-6 p.m. Dec. 1 at the TCC Opportunity Center, 5901 Fitzhugh Ave. in Fort Worth.