Forty Plus of Hawaii
is calling it quits

The slumping economy and
other placement resources have
eroded its membership

By Peter Wagner
Star-Bulletin

After 26 years helping former executives and upper-management applicants find jobs in Hawaii, Forty Plus of Hawaii is closing its doors.

"Times have changed," said Phil Whitney, longtime president of the nonprofit organization. "We now have many more books and videos available in book stores. There's also the Internet, which is increasingly important for people. And we have people moving to the mainland to find jobs."

The nonprofit organization, which has helped 1,400 mid-career workers find new jobs, plans to close next month.

Whitney said membership has dwindled in recent years, in part because of Hawaii's poor economy. Members having trouble finding jobs here are seeking them on the mainland, he said. Also cutting into membership are new military programs to help former military personnel find civilian jobs.

"We used to have about 30 percent retired military," Whitney said. "Now its down to about 5 percent."

Edwin Ige, a 52-year-old financial manager and current member at Forty Plus, said he's gained from the organization and will miss it.

"I think it's helped me in writing resumes and in personal interviews and I'm ready to go out and market myself," he said. "But it's been a place to come to to talk with other people about our situation and polish our skills on the computer."

Ige praised Whitney for his long dedication to the organization.

"Phil's contributed his time without any compensation," he said. "Without his leadership, I don't think it would be the same."

Forty Plus began 60 years ago in New York where mid-career professionals over 40 were having a hard time finding jobs because they were considered over the hill.

In Hawaii, as across the country, it's tough to find professional work when you're over 40.

Stiff competition from younger applicants willing to settle for lower salaries coupled with corporate downsizing and mergers has left many mid-career workers out in the cold.

The Hawaii organization, which last year celebrated its 25th anniversary, is staffed by members looking for jobs. Expenses are paid by a $225 initiation fee and monthly dues between $45 and $80.

But with a shrinking membership, the office can't keep up with expenses, Whitney said.

Forty Plus had 59 members in 1993. It's down to 14 active members today.

"I think we can all be proud of the fact we've helped over 1,400 people in career transition over the past 26 years at no cost to the public," said Whitney, 70, who plans to retire. "It's a success story, but times have changed."