AARP Calls for 2007 "Best Employers for Workers over 50" Applications.

Visit www.aarp.org/bestemployers to Apply

CHICAGO -- The application deadline for the annual AARP Best Employers for Workers Over 50 list is fast approaching. Employers that offer workplace practices and policies that greatly benefit workers aged 50+ are encouraged to apply at www.aarp.org/bestemployers before the February 22, 2007, deadline.

AARP's landmark report, "The Business Case for Workers Age 50+," found that companies' investments in experienced workers can translate into a tremendous benefit for their businesses. As more and more boomers turn 60, attracting and retaining skilled workers will become increasingly critical for employers seeking to retain a competitive edge.

The AARP Best Employers program rewards innovative organizations that offer policies and features that appeal to workers 50+, including flexible work options, training/learning opportunities, competitive health and retirement benefits and age-neutral performance and appraisal systems. Now entering its seventh year, the AARP Best Employer search honored 50 employers last year, including Centegra Health System based in Woodstock, IL, and John Deere based in Moline, IL.

"AARP recognizes that the future workforce will depend on 50+ workers, which is why every year we honor companies with exemplary policies and practices for these workers," said Bob Gallo, State Director, AARP Illinois. "We are living longer and healthier lives these days, and everyone who want to continue contributing to society should be afforded that opportunity."

Any employer with at least 50 employees and based in the United States is eligible to apply to the AARP Best Employers for Workers Over 50 program. This includes for-profit companies, not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions and local, state and federal governments.

An independent research firm and a panel of judges comprised of outside experts score applicants. Final ranking is based on these scores after review by AARP. Best Employer awardees will be honored at a prestigious recognition dinner, which will be followed by an international conference addressing best practices among international companies.

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. We produce AARP The Magazine, published bimonthly; AARP Bulletin, our monthly newspaper; AARP Segunda Juventud, our bimonthly magazine in Spanish and English; NRTA Live & Learn, our quarterly newsletter for 50+ educators; and our website, www.aarp.org. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.