Just the word retirement conjures up visions of traveling, fishing, golfing, gardening or any other activity that could be done endlessly if one didn’t have to work.

For some seniors, this portrayal of their golden years is not accurate. Some find that all that leisure time can be exhausting, and that there is something to be said for having a job to go to. A sense of purpose, perhaps.

There are also seniors who find it hard to make ends meet. For them, a job is more than something to fill their days, it is a direct link to their quality of life.

“Some older people may not know where to look for a job,” said Beth Young, director of administrative services at Eastern Agency on Aging. “We may be able to help. Eastern Agency sponsors the Senior Community Service Employment Program in conjunction with the Bureau of Elder and Adult Services in Augusta. SCSEP is a federally funded work-training program designed to help older people upgrade employment skills while providing them with an income.”

To participate in the SCSEP program, applicants must be 55 years of age or older and have an income of no more than $11,075 for an individual, or $14,925 for a couple. Enrollees in the program can work a maximum of 1,300 hours per year, which averages 20 hours a week. They are paid minimum wage.

While there is no time limit for enrollees to be in the program, there are a limited number of SCSEP positions available. Participants are required to search for employment outside the training agency to free up spots for other interested seniors, said Young.

Because this is a government-funded training program, wages are not counted as income and therefore do not affect food stamps, subsidized housing or home energy assistance, she added.

“I think this is a wonderful program,” said Marjorie, 75. “I have been an enrollee for a year now and I really enjoy it. It’s a great way to get back into the work force. I’ve always liked working and I found retirement just wasn’t for me. Plus, the extra money is very important in helping with expenses.”

There are currently three SCSEP positions available at Eastern Agency on Aging.

The Home Repair Program needs a coordinator. This fix-it guru will supervise and recruit volunteers to do minor home repairs for elderly clients in need. Experience in planning and completing minor home repair projects is preferred.

If you like to talk on the phone and enjoy meeting new people, you may be interested in the Telephone Support Coordinator position. This person will recruit and train volunteers to call homebound elderly and-or family caregivers to offer support, friendship and a valuable link to the community.

The third position is located at Freeses Assisted Living in downtown Bangor. The Greeter and Activities Assistant will welcome guests and help plan and implement activities for the residents.

All positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. If you meet the age and income guidelines, and would like more information, call Beth Young at 941-2865.

If you’d like to rejoin the ranks of the working class, I wish you good luck. There is nothing quite like sharing your skills and experience with someone who needs them.

For more information on SCSEP or other employment opportunities for older adults, call the Bureau of Elder and Adult Services at (800) 262-2232 or the National Council on Aging at 945-6073.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging in Bangor. For information on EAA programs or services, call Marilyn or Chuck in the Resource and Referral department at 941-2865 or log on www.eaaa.org.