From Service to Civilian: Supporting Veterans in the Workforce

Career changes can be nerve-wracking. You’re faced with learning the ins and outs of a completely new field with new skills, knowledge, and expectations. Meanwhile, you’re trying to build professional networks and apply for positions in a job market saturated with seasoned professionals with years of experience under their belts.

To say that a career change is daunting is an understatement. This transition can be especially challenging for military service members struggling to translate their specialized skills and experience to the needs of the civilian workforce. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving our community through workforce development, we saw this challenge as an opportunity to support our local heroes. In 2022, we opened the Veteran Services Center (VSC) in Frederick, MD, to better serve those who have served during their transition.

WHAT IS THE VETERAN SERVICES CENTER?

The Veteran Services Center at Goodwill is a comprehensive, full-service experience, including benefits navigation and career coaching. The VSC offers access to all of the following and more in support of our Veterans:

• Benefits Navigation
• Counseling & Mental Health Resources
• Partner-Provided Veteran Services
• Career Coaching & Employment Services
• Veteran Peer Connection & Recreation Events
• On-Site Shower & Laundry Facilities for Veterans facing Housing Insecurity

The VSC also hosts a Goodwill store and Career Center on the premises. Resume writing assistance, interview prep, training classes and more are offered in-person and virtually through MyCareerAdvisor.com.

EVENTS AT THE VETERAN SERVICES CENTER

The VSC hosts a variety of community events and programs dedicated to supporting Veterans, active service members, first responders, and their families. Visitors can participate in wellness classes, educational courses, social events, and more, including:

• Monday Morning Coffee With Comrades
• Smooch a Pooch with Warrior Canine Connection
• Wellness Wednesdays Mind-Body Holistic Health Sessions
• Therapy with Art
• Fellowship Fridays Breakfast & Bible Study
• Puppy Yoga with Warrior Canine Connection
• Stockings of Service

View the full calendar to see this month’s events!

VISIT THE VSC

Curious about everything we have to offer? Come visit us! The Veteran Services Center at Goodwill is located at 1750 Monocacy Blvd, Frederick, MD 21701. The VSC is open for walk-ins Monday through Thursday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Fridays from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

YOUR SUPPORT, OUR MISSION

The Veteran Services Center is only made possible with your support. When you donate and shop at Goodwill, you help us provide our mission services and drive positive change in your community. Find a store and support a local hero today!