Older workers have a lot to offer the workplace — experience, knowledge, dependability and enthusiasm — and every year, one of these workers is honored for such contributions.

Nominations now are being accepted in the search for America’s Outstanding Oldest Worker. The search is part of a national effort to raise awareness about the contributions older individuals make in today’s workplace and to break down barriers often associated with their employment.

It is sponsored by Experience Works, the nation’s largest nonprofit training and employment organization for older workers.

Nominees for America’s Outstanding Old-est Worker must be 100 years of age or older, currently employed, working at least 20 hours each week for pay and involved in his or her community.

The honoree for 2010 will be introduced in May as part of Older Americans Month.

Additional information, including a nomination form, can be obtained by visiting

. The deadline to submit nominations is March 15.

Formerly Green Thumb, Experience Works’ mission is to improve the lives of low-income older people through employment, community service and training.