Beyond Veterans Day: Organizations say 'thank you' to veterans in the workplace

November 11, 11:47 AMSF Workplace Communication ExaminerKenya McCullum

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Photo: Cavell L. Blood

Veterans Day is a good time to say “thank you” to the veteran community for all of the sacrifices they have made for us. This is not always something that we think about in the workplace, but some organizations have created a culture designed to honor veterans in the workplace beyond Veterans Day.

ReBoot Camp

Joy Montgomery, the founder of ReBoot Camp, says that she was compelled to do something to help veterans with their careers because she was disgusted by how they were being treated when they returned home from service. She simply could not believe that all of the skills that veterans acquired in the military were being overlooked—and she had to help.

“Many of our returning veterans are unemployed or underemployed, where it's easy to be sidetracked for life. Many highly-skilled veterans with a solid work ethic wind up homeless, or working in minimum wage, part-time jobs because employers do not understand that they are a fit,” she said. “I'm angry about suicide rates, divorce rates, homeless rates—all of the evidence that, once the big welcome back party is over, doors that should be held wide open for veterans are closed tight. I'm angry that returning veterans are asked in interviews, ‘How many people have you killed?’ I'm angry that returning veterans with leadership skills and an unquestionable work ethic are being sidelined when the economy needs everything they offer to recover.”

Since 2002, Montgomery has helped veterans of Southern Alameda, Calaveras, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne Counties recover by offering career mentoring services. Montgomery assists veterans with resumes, offers advice on how to be successful during job interviews, and gives them the assistance they need to transition into the civilian workplace after a career of military service.

As a result of her efforts, unemployed and underemployed veterans have been able to begin their second careers—while using the skills they gained when they were in the military.

Health Net Federal Services

Rancho Cordova-based Health Net Federal Services has served the military community and their families for the last 21 years by proving healthcare services through the Department of Veterans Affairs. In addition, the company also employs veterans—and this community makes up over 12 percent of the company’s workforce.

"Health Net is centered around a culture of pride and ownership in serving veterans, as well as employing them and improving their quality of life," said Steve Tough, the company’s President. "Our organization continues to look for opportunities to show this deserving population how much we value their contribution to our country and their continued quality of life."

Part Two: Beyond Veterans Day: Organizations say 'thank you' to veterans in the workplace (continued)

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