UPDATE TO THE UPDATE:

As I noted in my previous post, 2024 has not been a great year for me. After resigning from my position, I took some time off to reflect on what had happened, why it occurred, whether I could have handled things differently, and if I would ever get a second chance to work before my original plan to retire at 63. I wasn't very proactive in my job search because I wanted to take a break. Having worked since I was 14, I felt it was important to just "be" and recuperate from the harassment I faced at my previous job, which ultimately led to my resignation. Recently, I received a call from a former coworker about a job in a similar field that I felt I would be a great fit for. I submitted my resume and cover letter, and I was invited for an interview. During the interview, I mentioned that I had visited their website to better understand the responsibilities of the position, but I noticed that neither the position nor the federally funded program was listed there. This program is statewide—every county has a team for it, except for this particular county. When I pointed this out to the interview panel, they exchanged glances, seemingly surprised that this information was missing. None of the ten panel members were aware that it wasn't on their website. The rest of the interview went well, and I sent thank-you emails to each panel member afterward. I later received an email stating that second interviews would be held and that I would be personally contacted by the supervisor. However, instead of a call, I received an email informing me that the position had been filled. What struck me as odd was that in both of their emails, the job title mentioned was different from the one I originally applied for. It felt as if the position I applied for had morphed into a couple of other roles. This seems quite shady to me. Now I wonder if my answers during the interview were inadequate because I was responding based on the job description I had applied for. I'm not upset about not getting the job; I believe everything happens for a reason. However, after this experience and reading countless stories of older women being overlooked for jobs, I find myself questioning whether I should continue to look for work or be satisfied with my life as it is, even without the job I enjoy. Interestingly, I did not tell my family that I wasn't offered the job, and only a few close friends knew I had applied. I had a feeling things might turn out this way. Looking back, I realize that one person's actions have caused a great deal of uncertainty in my life. I'm pretty sure they haven't given it a second thought, especially now that they’ve found someone to take on my previous position after six months. I apologize if I sound bitter; I just never expected to be in this situation at this point in my life. UPDATE: I resigned from my position today after serving 25 years in the same department. As some may remember or read I was placed on a PIP. During the PIP process I was out on FMLA due to an on-going physical issue from mid-May until today. Although I was at home healing I would receive annoying emails from my supervisor, don't forget to enter your timesheet, to send your Dr's note, on an on. I have read every policy regarding PIPs, the various letters you could receive depending on the situation. There are 4 or 5 example letters for why you failed the PIP and 1 that you made it through the process. This find just solidified for me that I was going to get one of the 4 or 5 letters telling me to pack my stuff, you are outta here! I haven't received any correspondence regarding my resignation, other than an email from my supervisor thanking me for my years of sevice and best of luck with my future endeavors. I am 59 years old! I was working as a professional bwhile they were still in high school! I have never felt having a younger supervisor was an issue. This time I feel the condescending tone and the level of immaturity I was dealing with. They got what they wanted, I'm gone. I have several friends that checked in on me today and even have a few leads on a couple of open positions where my experience would be utilized. Everything happens for a reason. Not sure what the reason is but I already feel less anxious and less hopeless. I will miss those I worked with and those I served. Don’t get me wrong the celebration at the local Mexican restaurant is planned. Remember my wonderful women, know your worth. My worth was not being recognized by my previous employer. I won't wait as long to leave if there's a next time. I've been with my current employer for 25 years. I've always had good performance evals, until 2+ years ago when I got a new supervisor. My 1st PE with them was unsatisfactory! I was blown away. They have been padding my P-file with letters of expectations, I was investigating twice for things I would never do. One was unfounded they other I was disciplined. Since then I've been put on a PIP. I'm devastated. I love what I do even now with all the BS this sup has thrown on me. I was planning to retire in 4 years. With this PIP I could be terminated. This issue has caused more mental health issues for me. I don't want to quit. But I don't want to be terminated. Finding another job with my salary or close to it in my age group is nearly impossible. I can't lose my insurance, my husband became disabled and his case has not been finalized. My income is the only income. I'm scared to imagine either situation. I've looked into jobs on-line but it always seems like a scam, really don't know what to do.