Altruistic job market booming with applicants on clarkhoward.com

As Clark recently explained, workers are normally entitled to 26 weeks of unemployment benefits. But a new federal law now extends that coverage through 39 weeks. If you've exhausted your 26 weeks and still haven't found work, contact your state's Department of Labor to apply for the extension. If you're already in the midst of your original 26-week benefits, you'll likely just be extended through 39 weeks.

Meanwhile, The Career Journal reports a number of people are going into altruistic jobs. Applications for the Peace Corps are up just under 20%. Teach for America applications are up 36%. Even the Jesuit Volunteer Corps is experiencing a surge in applicants.

People are using today's sluggish economy as an opportunity to take time out from their career and try something different. If you've hit a career roadblock, can you try moving forward in a new way?

What others are saying

Unemployment
I'm 49 and unemployed for the first time in my life. I was in a chemical manufacturing plant that was closed because of the drop in US tire production. Sure, there are other jobs out there... that pay 1/4 to 1/2 what I was making. The knowledge that I have acquired from this job will go the way of the plant where I worked... it is not applicable to most work I am now seeking, and my age is a definite disadvantage. On top of that, try to convince someone of your excellent health over the phone or through a resume. Age is a definite liabilility when you are seeking a job where you actually create wealth by producing something tangible from raw materials. This government created an business environment that destroyed my career, so I'll be damned if I will rush to my next job, which will likely involve none of my current expertise, for a fraction of what I was making. Pride can take a backseat to practicality at my age. I'm about halfway through normal unemployment benefits, and if need be, I'll gladly accept the extension. Thanks for letting us know this, Clark, because the major media is not covering it.
By down and out in WV @ 07/26/08 10:45:48 PMreport abuse
get a job
I am 42 and have been unemployed since november I have never gotten unemployment in my life working construction as a subcontractor and contractor i never had luxuries like unemployment insurance...work or go hungry is a great motivator, the government is going the wrong way enabling people to milk welfare and the taxpayers for longer terms will not encourage them to get a job!!...oh and I have to change careers because i won't learn spanish or employ ileagal workers which comprise 80% of the painting workforce in atlanta...I may use the labor boards resources and those on the web to find a new job, but there are too many jobs out there for people that are willing to work...people who hire shady lawyers to get workers comp or disability or those on welfare or unemployment that are able to work have no excuse!!
By Dave @ 07/18/08 10:02:23 PMreport abuse
The GA department of labor site also says to wait for a letter. My benefits were exhausted a few months ago. Because I stopped certifying and keeping such close tabs on applies, I fear I will miss out if I'm given the opportunity to have a few more weeks of benefits. I hope I am wrong.
By DW @ 07/18/08 04:28:47 PMreport abuse
Emergency Unemployment Benefits
I heard your show today, we live in NC and they say NOT to call and that a letter will come, so far, no letter..our benefits were exhausted on May 19, 2008 and are wondering what to do?
By Cynthia French @ 07/17/08 04:37:55 PMreport abuse

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Jul 17, 2008 -- Altruistic job market booming with applicants

What others are saying