The Charleston Job Corps Center (CJCC) operating under Horizons Youth Services (HYS) observed Elder Abuse Awareness Month on Monday, June 15, 2015 with a presentation from the WV Bureau of Senior Services. Guest speakers Jacqueline Proctor, Deputy Commissioner and Susie Layne, Project Manager within Medicaid Operations presented to the career technical trades of Certified Nursing Assistant (C.N.A), Pharmacy Technician, Office Administration, and Medical Office Support.

“When people reach their senior years, they can be more vulnerable and taken advantage of” said Proctor. Her work consists of the administrative oversight at the Bureau as well as interacting with seniors across the state of West Virginia while providing education and senior services. Proctor’s message to students and others is “if you know someone that is not being treated right, be strong, be brave and report it to the authorities.” Program Manager, Susie Layne revealed personal experiences observed in the field and informed students of the warning signs of elder abuse.

According to the National Centers on Elder Abuse www.ncea.aoa.gov “World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) was launched on June 15, 2006 by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. The purpose of WEAAD is to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect.”

The Charleston Job Corps continuous to provide information and awareness to our students through guest speakers, workshops, seminars and field trips as they prepare for future placement in full time careers, furthering their education or enlisting in the military.