HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Finding work during the pandemic has been tough for many people, including our veterans.
The U.S. Department of Labor reports a nearly six percent unemployment rate for veterans last month alone. That's close to twice the percentage for last year.
Leaders with 'Still Serving Veterans', a nonprofit organization, hopes this grant will continue to help people during such a difficult time.
"Our primary mission is for veterans to find work, and we want jobs that feed not just their families but feed their souls," says Still Serving Veterans President & CEO, Paulette Risher.
Risher says this will be the fourth year the organization receives financial support from Boeing. "We've helped over 2700 veterans find jobs in the last three years alone, and Boeing has been a major contribute to that," says Risher.
The group will receive $50,000 toward its Veteran Career and Transition Education Program that is free to participants. "We have been able to establish a series of workshops and training programs," added Risher.
In the age of the coronavirus, it's especially needed. Risher says it's not just focusing on a veteran's skill-set, but his or her purpose.
"What do you want to do with your life is a bigger question. And for many military, when you come out of the military you just don't think about that," says Risher.
Risher says the bulk of the money from Boeing goes straight to the programs.
"Eighty-five percent of every dollar that comes to us, that goes to direct client services. That's a good reasonable number for assuring that you can operate as a business and do what you say you're going to do," she says.
If you're a veteran in need of help visit SSV.org.