The Mayor’s Commission on Aging (MCOA) provides seniors with meaningful programs and information to enhance their quality of life. One special program that MCOA offers is the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). SCSEP helps older adults re-enter the workforce, build confidence, and enhance their employability. This program also provides on-the-job training at community-based host sites.
To highlight one story of a successful partnership, the Mayor’s Commission on Aging interviewed Mr. Ernest Saxton. A former block captain and a father of five, Ernest has served as an outspoken activist in Philadelphia for over forty years. Ernest is friendly, lively, and full of wisdom, bringing energy and heart to everything he does.
Eighty-five-year-old Ernest Saxton’s journey reflects a lifetime of resilience. His journey began as a design craftsman, drawing electrical circuits. With this skill, he did consulting for the government in Boston, Minneapolis, and Maryland.
Exploring all life has to offer, Saxton attended culinary school, became a mechanical drawing teacher in the School District of Philadelphia, and even went to community college. He graduated from Temple University, intending to become a lawyer. Being diagnosed with colon cancer shortly after, Ernest’s dream was interrupted. Instead, he began working in the laundromat business to recover and support his family.
Today, Ernest trains with the Philadelphia Visitor’s Center under SCSEP. The Center became a part of the SCSEP as a host site in September 2024. Tomar Jackson, Supervisor of the Philadelphia Visitor’s Center, recalls when Ernest first entered. “He started out doing the tower tours and is now behind the desk to handle information, said Jackson.”
Usually found at the City Hall Visitors Center, Ernest can be found eagerly helping guests. He provides them with information about various museums and attractions in the city. He also helps them navigate their way around City Hall and all it has to offer. Ernest is always there to give a good tour.
Tomar Jackson has had the pleasure of guiding Ernest for over eight months. “Ernest has been able to save the day many times we’ve been stuck,” he said. “Sometimes I’m not fully staffed, but Ernest has been able to pull through. The program works great. It bridges the gap between the younger staff and the older adults to create a culture of family.”
Ernest believes that SCSEP can provide anyone with the needed resources for self-improvement. This includes older adults. Ernest’s goals for the future include taking computer classes at Temple while continuing to help his community. This motivation was ignited in Ernest after joining the SCSEP. He now has the confidence to keep growing.
For Ernest, staying active while a part of SCSEP isn’t just about personal fulfillment. Being a part of SCSEP is about the chance to pave the way for future generations. Ernest wants to build a solid foundation for future youth to excel.
“I’ve still got a little bit in me–I still do have it,” Ernest expressed with determination. Today, he feels honored for the opportunity to offer his insight, taking pride in his ability to give back to the community after all these years.
Philadelphia residents aged 55 and older can gain job skills and experience with SCSEP through:
- Participation in paid, part-time community service assignments.
- Training in various job skills.
- Access to supportive services and resources.
We also help participants identify their career goals and guide them through the process of securing a job.
