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In the spring I heard that my job would probably be eliminated. I am coping well, being old enough to retire - and do I love retirement! Better than I ever thought I would. However, hearing on NPR today that sales are down following the Cash for Clunkers program I would like to comment.

One of the hallmarks of the current economy is that it is taking longer for skilled, experienced business professionals to get the next job after they are laid off. It used to take 2-3 months. Now it takes 6 months, and even more. How would you answer the interview questions, "So tell me what you've been doing while unemployed these last few months?" or, "When was the last time you used that skill?". The longer you remain unemployed, the greater the need to keep your professional skills sharp. One answer to this challenge is volunteering.

I have been unable to find paid work since 2001. I have lived in Europe most of my life, have a only a high school diploma in US. I have a strong work ethic. I was semi-successful and very happy with my life in Europe. But my fields of work and lack of education had nothing interesting to any job here. I now find myself with no job, though I have diligently been applying for one... even to jobs I consider well beneath my pay grade. I am not eligible for unemployment or any other kind of public health..

I am recruiting recipient organizations for the UNH Manchester "Warmth from the Millyard" warm clothing drive we are running from Nov 9 thought the 20th. I am a first year student, not terribly experienced in these things, but I do have some extensive life experience. I also am a former volunteer in a few homeless shelters or soup kitchens over these past years. with WFMY, I have to speak with front line social service providers to find out what their clientele needs.