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Navy vet achieves recovery, now helps others achieve the same
May 31, 2022How HVAF’s VetWorks provides career opportunities through Downtown Indy, Inc.
Last summer, while on the road to recovery, Army veteran Brent needed assistance with employment. While living at the Domiciliary, his case manager pointed him to HVAF’s Workforce Development.
What is VetWorks?
HVAF’s Workforce Development team started its VetWorks program last year.
VetWorks – Veterans Workforce Renewing Knowledge and Skills – is an intensive three-phase work, learn and earn program designed to skill up our veterans to achieve their earning potential. Veterans will complete on-the-job training, have access to education/certifications and receive assistance with obtaining a good and promising job.
VetWorks & Downtown Indy, Inc.
HVAF partners with Downtown Indy, Inc. as it provides internship opportunities in the first phase of the program. Brent is the first VetWorks participant to start and complete his internship at Downtown Indy, Inc.
“I am solely responsible for phase one at the Downtown Indy placement. Within phase one, veterans are placed in an internship either at HVAF or Downtown Indy,” VetWorks Employment Specialist Cole said. “Throughout that internship, the whole goal is to build essential soft skills, work on their resume, work on building their confidence in financial literacy, interview prep, and more.”
VetWorks’ interns serve as a street ambassador throughout the downtown Indy area. In this job, they are responsible for cleaning sidewalks, picking up trash, and acting as an ambassador to those visiting downtown.
Brent & VetWorks
Brent completed phase one in the fall, received a forklift certification in phase two, and is continuing to work at Downtown Indy, Inc. as he applies for a career in phase three.
“It’s really astounding to see his level of confidence build,” Cole said. “He’s grown into a leader because of being that first VetWorks participant. He’s setting the example for all of the new folks we have coming into the program.”
In addition to furthering in his career, Brent also lives at NeighborCare of Chapel Hill – who also supports HVAF in many ways. He is so thankful for everything HVAF has done for him.
“I couldn’t ask for anymore, really. They’ve done so well – anything I’ve wanted they’ve gotten for me and helped me through all of it,” Brent said. “My life is going so well right now. I’ve got to pinch myself! I hope it keeps going that way.”
HVAF can’t provide these life-changing opportunities for Hoosier Heroes without your help. Will you join HVAF’s mission and give a financial gift today?
