WorkSource

Hiring Veterans

Governor Jeb Bush proclaims November “Hire A Veteran Month” – Businesses are encouraged to take advantage of the valuable employment resource.

Recognizing the value of those who have served our country, Governor Jeb Bush today declared November 2006 “Hire a Veteran Month” in Florida. The Governor’s declaration is part of a nationwide campaign to reaffirm our commitment to those who have served our nation in times of peace and war.

Coordinated by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service, “Hire a Vet” is designed to remind employers of the unmatched economic resource that veterans offer. “Florida veterans have consistently and selflessly defended our nation’s security and in the process gained valuable skills, leadership and maturity,” said Governor Bush. “They represent a versatile and well-trained workforce, offering prospective employers a track record of integrity, sincerity and trustworthiness. I encourage Florida businesses to take advantage of this unmatched employment resource.” A number of events are planned throughout November to help connect returning veterans to the many employment resources in Florida. Veterans are also encouraged to take advantage of the Transition Assistance Program, a federally-administered reemployment program for service members leaving the military.

“The Transition Assistance Program provides employability skills training and other information about benefits to military members and their spouses in their transition from military to civilian society,” said Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs Director, Colonel Rocky McPherson. “Participation in the program maximizes employment opportunities for Florida’s veterans raises awareness for transitioning military personnel regarding the employment market in our State and benefits available from other federal programs.” “Florida’s veterans are comfortable with new technology and are skilled and trained in a variety of areas,” said Agency for Workforce Innovation (AWI) Director Linda H. South. “With Florida’s booming economy and the most dynamic job market in the nation, there are numerous employment opportunities for veterans in our state. We are committed to bringing employers and veterans together to their mutual benefit using our full network of Employ Florida partners across the state.”

Florida is home to 1.9 million veterans and has the fastest growing veterans population in the nation. This year Governor Bush continued his commitment to establishing Florida as a military and veteran-friendly state, signing into law a series of bills that provide additional benefits to Florida’s veterans and active duty military troops. For more information, please visit http://www.myflorida.com. For more information on benefits and assistance for veterans, please visit http://www.floridavets.org.

There are eight WorkSource Career Services Centers located throughout Northeast Florida, where employers can go to receive assistance in connecting to and recruiting veterans. The Career Services Centers offer a wealth of resources including specialized Local Veterans Employment Representatives (LVERs) and Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) staff who work solely with veteran population and can provide veteran applicant referrals specific to your need.

Be a “Hire Vets First” Business

It makes sense to hire veterans. Veterans have the training, work ethic and proven skills that will immediately add value to your business.

To find out more, visit http://www.hirevetsfirst.gov.