Connects Heroes, Employers

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

July 30, 2007 - An online nonprofit group is helping servicemembers preparing to transition to the civilian work world connect with solid job opportunities. "Our mission is accomplished through online networking, and the key to our success is our volunteers," said Vikki Skrypez, volunteer coordinator for the group, "Hire a Hero."

Dan Caulfield, a former Marine, started the group's Web site, www.HireaHero.org, in January. It currently has 5,000 former servicemembers signed up for help with job hunting.

Participants are asked to complete a profile about their situation -- for example, what skills they have, how close they are to separating, and where they hope to live once they've left the military. Those who register with Hire a Hero also can search and apply for jobs with "military-friendly employers" on the site.

"As these three groups connect and network, there are benefits for all," Skrypez said. "Members from the military community find meaningful employment opportunities. Employers obtain quality (employees), and volunteers expand their network and become more established in their communities by ... helping veterans."

Hire a Hero is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.

"We are excited about the exposure and networking opportunities through America Supports You," Skrypez said. "We hope to get our message out to like-minded individuals who want to help.

"This is a great opportunity for those that want to give back and say thank you to our military," she added.