Encore: Work that matters in the second half of life.

As interest in encore careers increases, a community college in South Florida has launched a counseling program aimed at older residents who want to do “purpose-driven” work.

In an article distributed by Tribune Media Services, Jerry Enloe of Broward Community College in Fort Lauderdale, says the three-hour “Encore” seminar is attracting a “real mix” of mature adults: “We’re seeing a lot of people who may be stressed out with their current jobs or were downsized. Others just don’t want to quit working and are looking to try something new or give back to the community through volunteering. Some boomers are retiring and realizing that it doesn’t work financially, or they just want to stay busy.”

The program is one of 10 funded through a Community College Encore Career Project of Civic Ventures, which is working to redefine the second half of life as an opportunity to do meaningful work.

The three-hour course helps participants explore their interests, using a computerized inventory program, and re-examine their life’s priorities, with emphasis on greater happiness and making a difference in their communities. It introduces them to opportunities, assists them in identifying challenges and helps them create personal road maps to their new encore careers.

Employers are seeking applicants in the areas of education, health care and social services, among other areas. There also are unlimited opportunities for civic engagement.

The Broward Community College course is one way the State University System of Florida is meeting the needs of boomers who are registering in graduate school programs in record numbers. Last fall, there was a 13.4 percent increase in graduate applicants, according to Chancellor Mark B. Rosenburg, who called the number “unprecedented.”

For more information about the Broward Encore program, call (954) 201-7800 or visit the Broward Community College Encore site.