The struggling economy and tough job market has forced hundreds of older workers to find employment in Summit County.

Hundreds of job seekers along with about 40 employers attended the 22nd Annual Mature Workers’ Job & Career Fair Thursday at the Akron-Fairlawn Hilton.

Sandra Shade, 60, of Akron, was laid off her retail job in 2008. She hopes companies see the true value when hiring older workers.

"I think mature workers are more reliable, dedicated, and dependable," said Shade.

Mature Workers' Job Fair: Sandra Shade by Amani Abraham

Shade has been involved with a Mature Services program that offers training to older workers who want to advance their job skills.

Al Frank, 80, of Akron, is a retired engineer looking for a change to help keep him active.

"I would like to find something that is more productive or rewarding," said Frank. "I'm very open-minded. I'm not looking for anything in particular."

Mature Workers' Job Fair: Frank Shade by Amani Abraham

Frank says he believes companies look for mature and older workers for the dependability.

"I have read that many companies have come to the conclusion that age is not the limit for an employee," said Frank.

Click here to find more information about job fairs hosted by Mature Services.