Thursday, September 01, 2005

VW of America, Inc. Named "Best Employer for Workers Over 50"

Text from Volkswagen of America.
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — AARP today announced its nationwide selections for “Best Employers for Workers Over 50,” and for the third year in a row, Volkswagen of America, Inc. has been named one of the best places for older employees to work.

The AARP “Best Employers for Workers Over 50” program has honored companies nationally for the past five years for their commendable policies toward older workers. The winners are chosen based on employee development opportunities, health benefits for employees and retirees, average age of the employer’s workforce, alternative work arrangements and retirement benefits.

“We are honored to have been recognized by AARP,” said Mike Beamish, executive director of Human Resources, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Nearly one quarter of Volkswagen’s U.S. workforce is over the age of 50, and we value the comprehensive experience and industry knowledge that benefits our staff, company and customers.”

Beamish added, “Volkswagen has strong programs in place to attract and retain older employees. We are proud to serve as an inspiration for other companies.”

Among its benefits for older workers, Volkswagen of America, Inc. provides a flexible spending account for dependent care that also provides an elder care option. Employees may allocate $5,000 in pre-tax earnings for dependent care needs, resulting in lower taxes for the employee. Volkswagen routinely offers wellness/health fairs and screenings and provides financial assistance for fitness equipment and club membership. The Life-Works Employee Assistance Program provides counseling and on-line resources for older workers on work/family issues, financial and retirement planning. Retirees are offered employment opportunities, such as temporary work assignments and consulting work.

Volkswagen’s reputation as a favorable workplace for older adults is recognized beyond the AARP. Last year, a Volkswagen human resources executive testified before the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging about the company’s appreciation for older workers.

The AARP will honor Volkswagen and other awardees at a banquet in Chicago on September 22.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers.