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Complete Economy

A Libby Campaign Connects Retirees Looking for Work with Local Businesses

  • Local Champion: Montana Department of Labor & Industry
  • Date Funded: July 12, 2024
  • Grant Amount: $1,700

Montana is one of the oldest states in the country with roughly 1 in 5 residents over the age of 65, according to a recent legislative report. And Libby is no exception. The problem is that just over 20% of those 65 and up are still in the workforce, offering local businesses little relief from labor shortages. Libby’s liaison for the Montana Department of Labor and Industry wanted to address local labor shortages and help the growing number of retirees who are looking for work amid rising living costs. Her idea? Launch an initiative to connect local businesses with retirees. LOR’s funding helped the Montana Department of Labor and Industry host a kickoff event, advertise in local papers, and build community awareness of the initiative.

This project is fiscally sponsored by Kootenai Country Montana.

Contact our community officer in Libby. Meet Tabitha Viergutz
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If you have an idea for improving quality of life in Cortez or Monte Vista, Colorado; Lander, Wyoming; Libby, Montana; Questa or Taos, New Mexico; or Weiser, Idaho, use this form to start a conversation with us.

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