Warrior Money: Empowering Veterans and Their Families Through Transition
Transition: A Multifaceted Challenge
The transition from military service to civilian life can be arduous, impacting not only the veteran but also their family. Hiring Our Heroes Vice President, Elizabeth O'Brien, underscores the need for multifaceted support to ease this journey.
Government and Community Support
The US government allocates $13 billion annually to assist transitioning veterans. However, O'Brien advocates for enhanced collaboration between government and community stakeholders to provide comprehensive aid.
The Impact on Military Spouses
Military spouses face significant economic challenges, including a high unemployment rate of 21%-24%. State certification discrepancies and frequent relocations hinder their career advancement.
Addressing Employment and Financial Stress
To address financial stress during transition, O'Brien emphasizes the importance of economic opportunities for military spouses. This can increase the likelihood that veterans accept suitable jobs, reducing their financial burden.
Skill Bridge Program
The Skill Bridge program, initiated by O'Brien, enables veterans to transition into jobs 90 days prior to discharge. This provides a valuable opportunity for veterans and employers to assess job suitability.
Community Support and Integration
Beyond financial aid, O'Brien highlights the critical role of community support in facilitating veterans' and their families' integration into new communities. Establishing networks and social capital can enhance access to childcare, workforce re-entry, and other essential services.
Shared Challenges and Solutions
While military families face unique challenges, their struggles are not entirely distinct from those faced by many American families. By addressing shared challenges such as affordable childcare and workforce re-entry, solutions can be developed that benefit both military families and society as a whole.