Column: Goodwill supports veterans through various programs
SAN ANTONIO — As we approach another season of giving, Goodwill San Antonio is thankful for all the donations and support that our community provides us each and every day. Donations help us fulfill our mission in providing job placement, vocational training, and case management to all our diverse communities.
One special population that stands out this month is our veterans. Goodwill San Antonio joins the nation in recognizing the service and sacrifices made by our veterans and military service members, while also honoring and supporting our heroes every day of the year.
According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, approximately 250,000 military service members transition to civilian life each year. Currently, there are over 97,000 veterans who reside in San Antonio. Many of them continue to serve our community in a variety of ways, including working for nonprofit organizations. Goodwill San Antonio salutes our heroes and we are committed to honoring them through the services we provide.
For example, Goodwill San Antonio’s Business Services division provides support services at all four military installations of JBSA. Support services such as digitizing thousands of medical records annually, or fielding phone calls from veterans to retrieve benefits information and tracking of their personal files of when they served. Goodwill employees are committed to serving in any way we can.
In addition, our workforce development programs are open to veterans and their families. Our programs empower veterans to find employment while providing ongoing support in skills development, interviewing techniques, and resume preparation. We provide workforce training, certifications, and access to employer networking events.
A significant number of Goodwill’s leadership team and staff members are veterans as well, which allows us to personalize the onboarding experience. We recognize that transitioning out of the military may come with challenges, and we offer shared experiences and guidance to ensure a successful path towards employment.
Whether veterans choose Goodwill to help them achieve employment, develop a skill, or earn a credential, we make it our personal mission to ensure that our veterans are provided the care and opportunity needed to be successful in the work place. We are grateful for what our military community has given to our nation, and we are dedicated to serving them as they have done for us.
Carlos J. Contreras, III is President & CEO at Goodwill San Antonio.
