by Rhonda Underhill
While many people offer veterans their heartfelt thanks for their service to our country, many vets and their families appreciate more concrete forms of help, including assistance with job and house-hunting. Grace & Faith 4 U can be an inspirational guide when it comes to reaching out to those in need.
Job Opportunities
Hiring a veteran can help them be self-sufficient. Look for opportunities for good fits, either within your own industry, or in other businesses where you have connections. Veterans have a variety of skill sets applicable to many different lines of work. According to Military.com, vets typically have exceptional organizational and strategizing skills, take direction well, and are fast learners. Many veterans have specialized training and education that can be utilized in a civilian workplace setting.
Educational Pursuits
The GI Bill offers a number of different training and education opportunities for veterans. This can allow them to pursue new areas of interest that can lead to new career paths. You might be able to help with identifying area educational institutes that have specialized veterans programs and provide them with information related to admissions, enrollment, and financial planning. You may also be able to help identify areas of interest and align them with course offerings, or make arrangements for career counseling through local colleges, universities, and vocational training institutes.
Family Support
Veterans may have challenges reintegrating into civilian life after being deployed, and you may be in a position to offer support for the entire family. This might include helping with getting settled in and reacclimated in a new community, making introductions within your social circles, church, and neighborhood. You may also be able to help vets identify services they may be eligible for. The U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs has a wealth of information that can help you help the vets in your life connect with available services in your community.
House Hunting
Veterans may be eligible for various types of housing assistance in the form of VA loans. This typically means they have the opportunity to buy a house with little or no money down, as well as forego private mortgage insurance. There are a number of steps involved in buying a home, including monitoring credit score and debt-to-income ratio, searching for the best home fit, and going about the mortgage application process. A seasoned real estate professional and mortgage lender can aid in the process.
Veterans and their families make considerable sacrifices for their country and their fellow citizens. If you have a heart for service and want to show your support, look into opportunities within your faith community and local veterans support groups. There are myriad needs to be fulfilled, and you’re sure to find opportunities to help. Grace & Faith 4 U can provide you with insights and inspiration for helping others as you pursue your own spiritual path.
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