Seniors R The Answer: Our Heartfelt Journey in the 2025 Inspire Awards

This year, the Inspire Awards centered around something incredibly close to our hearts: workforce development. Nonprofits from across the country came together with one shared purpose to create pathways that help people build skills, find stability, and step into new opportunities. Being part of this year’s challenge was both humbling and energizing, and we’re grateful to have shared space with so many organizations committed to real change.

For us at Encore Employment Enterprise, the Inspire Awards journey was nothing short of transformative. Our program, Seniors R The Answer, was built on a simple belief: we cannot leave our seniors behind. Through call-center training and wraparound services, we’ve worked to create a space where experience is valued, dignity is honored, and new beginnings are always possible.

What started as a single application grew into a powerful, months-long process that pushed us to think deeper, dream bigger, and strengthen the work we do every day. From interviews and feedback sessions to collaborative learning and pitch preparation, the experience gave us the chance to refine our vision and connect with people who share our commitment to building a more inclusive workforce. Looking back, it’s incredible to see how far we, and all the finalists have come.

Reaching the final pitch event felt like a celebration of everything we worked toward this year. Standing on that stage, sharing our story with the community, and representing the seniors we serve was an honor in itself. And to be awarded the 2025 Inspire Awards Second Place Grant of $150,000 is something we will carry with deep gratitude. This support will help us expand our reach, strengthen our training model, and continue advocating for older adults who are ready to reimagine what’s possible.

The Inspire Awards reminded us that change happens when big ideas meet big hearts and we’re proud to be part of that movement. We’re excited for what comes next, and we’re even more excited for the seniors whose journeys inspire us every day.

Here’s to new possibilities, shared progress, and a workforce where everyone gets the chance to shine.