Nov 11, 2011
In 2011, more than 20 million men and women in the United States over the age of 18 were veterans. As service members transition to civilian life, they face a bleak job market in addition to other significant challenges that make it more difficult for them to find work, grow their careers and provide for themselves and their families. Physical and psychological disabilities, substance abuse, homelessness, long waits for benefits and other support services, and lack of immediate access to Veteran Affairs facilities are just a few of those challenges.
That’s why Goodwill Industries® has ramped up its efforts to prepare veterans for careers post-deployment and connect them to necessary support services, including housing assistance and primary and mental health care. Veterans in the Finger Lakes region can connect with these vial services by calling 2-1-1.
Between 2008 and 2010, the number of documented veterans who received services from Goodwill® more than doubled, from 12,524 to 25,766. A new initiative, Goodwill for America’s Heroes and Their Families, seeks to increase the number of veterans and their families who access Goodwill’s vital support services and are able to successfully re-enter the civilian workforce.
On Veterans Day and every day, Goodwill remains committed to giving back to the men and women who have given so much to preserve our freedom and way of life. Your support of Goodwill helps us serve America’s heroes as they build new lives for themselves and their families.