Encore NEO launches virtual hub

Encore NEO is expanding its reach with the launch of a virtual Lake County hub.

This nonprofit organization that is based in Northeast Ohio is committed to helping inspire men and women, ages 50 and above, craft meaningful careers and satisfying lifestyles.

During an open house on Sept. 12 at Auburn Career Center in Concord Township, Encore NEO showcased its new programs and services.

Dale Stefancic, who is a board member, will lead the first Lake County program that will focus on starting a business.

This introductory entrepreneurship program includes seven, two-hour interactive sessions over 14 weeks. The sessions will be held on the first and third Mondays from Sept. 17 to Dec. 17. Sessions will alternate between the Willoughby and Mentor Public Libraries, according to its website.

“I will be spearheading this program for participants that want to take their business and life skills and transition into business ownership,” Stefancic said. “How would I transition where I am today to business ownership? How do I begin? How do I get customers, marketing- I mean just from A to Z. It will be very hands-own and participant-involved.”

Depending on the need, Sefancic said they may add more sessions at additional locations.

The Geauga County hub, though already established, also added new programs including facilitated weekly

support groups, a Career Transition Speaker Series and career coaching.

A $40 membership fee will grant access to all Lake and Geauga county offerings.

“We have learned so much over the 4 ½ years we have been doing this and we’ve tested I would say hundreds of different programs and now we are settling on ones we think are most helpful,” said Encore NEO Executive Director Tim Lybarger. “We feel

really good about where we are and confident in the things we are offering. We know that between Lake and Geauga counties almost 50 percent of the population is over the age of 50, so there is a huge number of people in this demographic who could benefit from our programs.”