QUALIFIED: And can't get a job

Discrimination is alive and well in the state of Idaho and its communities. Age discrimination and disability discrimination, that is. How do I know this? Because I have been applying for work via the state of Idaho and cities within the state as well as with private companies for the past four years. I have a current (2010) Bachelors degree in Business Administration and Marketing. I also have over 20 years experience as a business owner as well as 15 years experience as an office manager, operations manager, administrative assistant and have been involved in my communities as member of BOD’s, Committee Chairman, Treasurer, volunteer creator and Editor-in-Chief of newsletter publications for community groups and have years of public speaking experience. I am also earning a Master’s degree online.

Yet, I have yet to be hired. Why? Because I am an older woman with a hearing disability. That is why. I have applied for jobs I am way over qualified, jobs that I would have been perfect in, had all the required background and experience and been turned down with the same rejection letter(s) or no response whatsoever stating that someone “more qualified” got the job. More qualified means younger and fully abled.

The state of Idaho discriminates and so do local employers. You can’t prove it and the state and private employers know this. You’ve missed out on an educated, experienced, loyal, dependable employee. I finally give up.

KIM ELLMAN

Rathdrum

Editor’s note: Employers, if this is someone you’d like to interview, please contact Mike Patrick at The Press: mpatrick@cdapress.com