FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

07-08-09 505PM

The Department of Labor recently announced $7.5 million in employment and training grants designated to help Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans obtain green jobs. Swords to Plowshares, a local veteran service agency, is one of 17 recipients nationwide and will be awarded $300,000 to help Iraq and Afghanistan veterans in the Bay Area train for employment in the green industry.

“This is an excellent opportunity for us to help more recently separated veterans pursue new and innovative career paths,” said Michael Blecker, executive director of Swords to Plowshares. “We have more than 30 years of experience helping veterans stabilize all aspects of their lives, including employment and training, and look forward to working with more green employers in the Bay Area.”

The Department of Labor grant will allow Swords to Plowshares to expand services to veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars who are trying to find employment. Veterans can receive help transitioning their military skills into a civilian career by working one-on-one with experienced career counselors at Swords to Plowshares. These veterans who have recently returned from service will work with Swords to Plowshares to develop strong resumés, work on interviewing skills, enroll in training programs and find employment that fits their needs and interests.

Swords to Plowshares will also work with Bay Area employers to develop programs specifically designed to work with these men and women. The programs will help veterans obtain the skills they need to pursue a career in the green job industry. Currently, Swords to Plowshares is working with local employers to create individualized training programs for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans.

About Swords to Plowshares

Swords to Plowshares is committed to providing a continuum of care for veterans. In addition to employment and training, its services include counseling and case management, transitional and permanent supportive housing, mental health services and legal services for service related benefits and military discharge upgrades. For clients seeking employment and training services, the organization provides one-one-one counseling to ensure that veterans are pursuing careers that fit with their skills and interests.

For more information, call 415-252-4788 or e-mail employment@stp-sf.org.

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