CRYSTAL LAKE – Caring, compassionate people are needed to fill a growing demand for home service workers in McHenry County.

As our population ages and families spread out, a growing number of older adults not yet ready for a nursing home still need help with performing their daily routines, including running errands, making meals or performing daily hygiene and housework. Some also simply need a compassionate ear and companionship.

Beginning in August, a new grant-funded training program at McHenry County College will help meet this demand for home service workers. Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, MCC will offer a no-cost certificate program that covers everything from interaction and communication skills to hygiene, to using mobility/assistive devices with the elderly.