senior citizen needs financial aid via student?

[john]

I'm 68 year old male and in perfect health. I was in drug rehab for 9 months and have been clean and sober for two years. My careers went down the drain with by former lifestyle. I am trying to rebuild my life at this time. I receive 700.00 a month from Social Security. I live with a family and pay 400.00 a month for a bedroom which is not conducive for studying as a college student. I am a former certified teacher and licensed funeral director. I cannot afford a car and get by with a bike. I want to attend a local community college and take some refreshing courses such as Anatomy, Speech, and a Computer course. I would like to receive as MUCH money in forms of grants and loans to get my own apartment auto, and to advertise my return to funeral practice. I am willing to be a full time student and do whatever is necessary to get the grants and loans. I am truly paying for the past mistakes. I offer funeral services at a very discounted price and work with many charities to bury indigent people. An input of cash as a student would help me get on my feet and be a productive part of my community. How may I go about getting the funds to go back to school, get my own car, and,advertise my return to practice? Any all answers appreciated.

[Kay]

Congratulations on your recovery! I'm a former drug and alcohol therapist and sexual assault counselor who's a few months older than you. When I left the agency and relocated to be with terminally ill family, it never occurred to me that requirements for those fields would change by the time I was ready to return. Last year I found a counseling job in a domestic violence shelter, where my experience was more important than my specific degree. I believe it's never too late to start over and I commend you for your determination. We're younger in our 60's and 70's than previous generations.

I think you need to talk to a financial aid counselor at the community college. There seems to be less financial aid for part-time students, let alone someone going for refresher courses. Would you be eligible to substitute teach? Have you considered teaching non-credit courses at the college?

Having worked part-time in the recreation (life enrichment) department at nursing and assisted living facilities, I know there's a lot of opportunities for work with seniors. Some families need someone to sit with an elder member for certain hours of the week. In Phila., there was a system of matching seniors who wanted to stay in their homes with college or grad students who were willing to do certain things (grass, snow, garbage, pet care) in return for very low cost rent. Check with church organizing bodies for their programs (Diocese, Presbytery, etc.).

It's wonderful that you're doing charitable work in your field. You might try advertising through charities and churches the low cost way. Prepare a brochure and hand deliver it to directors of agencies, especially hospice care programs. Meeting you and getting to see and hear your kindness and sincerity will do more than advertising media. Best wishes for a thriving life.