FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Operation: Job Ready Veterans Receives Grant from the Union Pacific Foundation

Indianapolis, IN (September 16, 2021) – Operation: Job Ready Veterans (OJRV) is pleased to announce it has recently received a grant from the Union Pacific Foundation (Union Pacific). OJRV will be using the Union Pacific funding in support of their One-on-One Veteran Career Transition Services program. Through this program, OJRV is able to create self-sufficient veterans, service members, and military families in Wisconsin by removing barriers to employment and providing specialized one-on-one services to help them obtain sustainable careers.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an even greater demand for OJRV services. A recent news release from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shared the effects the COVID-19 pandemic has had on veterans. In 2020, the unemployment rate increased to 6.5% for male veterans and 6.7% for female veterans. There is a growing need for services geared toward transitioning veterans into the civilian workforce after their time of service, and with the funds granted by Union Pacific, the OJRV team will be able to assist to those in need by providing resume and cover letter development, job search assistance, networking strategies, social media utilization, and interview preparation. 

“Over the past two years, OJRV has grown our services in the state of Wisconsin, and we quickly learned there was a huge need in that state and amazing partners such as Union Pacific ready to help our veterans, transitioning service members, and military families who lack sustainable income,” said OJRV Executive Director Gene Anderson.

Transitioning military members cite providing for their families as their number one concern when facing civilian life. Securing a living wage is of primary importance, but few understand how to navigate the world of civilian employment or how to translate the skills gained during military service. OJRV, supported by generous organizations like Union Pacific, employs a unique approach that assists with each step necessary to ensure veterans and military family members can support both their families and the Wisconsin communities in which they settle. 

About Operation: Job Ready Veterans (OJRV)

Operation: Job Ready Veterans is a Midwest-based nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing veterans, service members, and military family members for entry into the workforce. OJRV focuses on transition, job readiness, and career placement, providing employment readiness training and specialized job placement to personnel from all military branches, service eras, and ability levels. The nonprofit’s mission is to bridge life’s transitional gaps for veterans, service members, and their families by empowering them to meet their individual education, employment, and career goals.

Website: ojrv.org
Facebook: jobreadyvets
LinkedIn: job-ready-veterans

About Union Pacific

Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable, and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at www.up.com.

Media Contact Information
Jessica Bertsch
JBertsch@jobreadyvets.org
+1.757.773.7357

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