With unemployment soaring and hiring freezes in place at many organizations, it is heartening to know that many nonprofits are still recruiting experienced people. But, as Jeri Sadler, a longtime "rewiring" guru and Michael Watson, a nonprofit human services executive explain, competition for these positions is stiff, so you will need to be strategic and have a specific encore career in mind as you venture into the nonprofit world.  Read their article for valuable tips.

Recent research studies on aging are sure to make you happy! According to a report given at the most recent American Psychological Association's convention, the longer you live, the happier you're likely to be. With the world population of people over 65 expected to triple by 2050, this news will affect millions of aging adults. Read more to find some tips on how to keep smiling, be productive, and stay socially involved.

Loved-starved widows, if they ever really existed outside of sitcoms, have gone the way of June Cleaver, according to this New York Times article. They may grieve the deaths of beloved spouses and some will never recover, yet studies show that the vast majority of older widows seem to enjoy being single, joining the larger group of unattached women aging as singles.

It's time to vote for the winners! EPA's Aging Initiative, Generations United, and the Rachel Carson Council, Inc. are pleased to present the finalists for the second annual intergenerational photo, dance, essay and poetry Sense of Wonder contest (mentioned in our June 6th issue). Ballots must be cast by Thursday, October 1, 2009 and winners will be announced on the contest page in October.

Join Generation Appreciation Philadelphia for a live performance and recording of "Breakfast at Sulimay’s," a show that documents three brutally honest Fishtown older adults who bring a fresh perspective to today’s most cutting-edge music. The event will held be on September 10th, 12-1 pm, at United Way of Southeastern PA (Coming of Age founding partner.) RSVP by Tuesday, September 8th or call (215) 765-9000 x5072.

The Transition Network is sponsoring a food tasting and lecture for women 50+ by Erin Owen, yoga and nutrition teacher, that will explore holistic, nutritious ways to eat to maintain your health and let you "walk your path with energy, passion, and vitality". Enjoy delicious samples; go home with recipes. Thursday, September 10th, 6:30-8:30 pm at The Ralston Center, 3615 Chestnut St., Philadelphia. $10 for members/$20 non-members  To register online, click here, or call (215) 248-2912.

On September 13th, the Urban Green Partnership and other environmentally friendly organizations are sponsoring the 4th Annual GreenFest, a one-day free street fair held at 2nd and South Streets in Philadelphia. The area's largest environmental event will include vegetarian food, live music & entertainment, yoga, local produce, green contests, composting and recycling, Eco Exchange Fashion Show & Clothing Swap, and the Green Film Festival. Don't miss this opportunity to be eco-friendly.

Increasing numbers of people are finding it difficult to obtain affordable, quality in-home care for older adults. Because the available pool of family caregivers is rapidly shrinking, MetLife Foundation has created a grant program for Community Colleges to either establish innovative, new home-based caregiver training programs or enhance existing programs. Since 2007, 39 community colleges have received grants. To find out how to apply, click here.

The Philadelphia-based Rock School for Dance Education, a pre-professional dance training institution, is seeking a part-time bookkeeper (20-25 hours a week) who will be responsible for accounts payable, payroll, administrative human resources-related work, and other tasks.  Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field and at least two years experience needed. Microsoft Office proficiency required. E-mail cover letter, resume, and salary requirements with subject line: Bookkeeper Position.

Compeer in Bucks County is a chapter of a national nonprofit that has been successful in promoting recovery for people receiving mental health services by matching each client in a 1-to-1 relationship with a caring, adult volunteer. Volunteers go through an orientation and training and receive ongoing support from staff. The two "friends" enjoy activities together. To learn more, e-mail Julie. 

Consider being the Public Interest Law Center of Philadelphia's Volunteer Coordinator! Your task will be to coordinate the hundreds of dedicated individuals who contact the law center interested in advancing the Center's mission of eliminating discrimination. The position includes communicating with prospective volunteers and organizing and overseeing projects. A flexible schedule with regular office hours can be arranged. Call (215)-627-7100, ext.222 for more information.