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Foundation grant to support veterans workforce development program

Ross Norton //August 29, 2022//

Foundation grant to support veterans workforce development program

Ross Norton //August 29, 2022//

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Upstate Warrior Solution was awarded a $200,000 grant from Truist Foundation to expand their Veteran Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development program. The grant will enable Upstate Warrior Solution to provide training and mentorship to veterans pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors, but who lack the necessary resources and planning tools.

The Veteran Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development program directly supports the Truist Foundation’s pillars to build career pathways to economic mobility or strengthen small businesses, according to a news release.

Veterans and their families have a significant need for holistic workforce development support, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and general veteran readjustment concerns, the news release said. While employment resources are available across the country, many exist in increasingly isolated environments, resulting in a disconnected network that can be confusing for veterans to navigate. Thirty percent of veterans in the Upstate Warrior Solution service region are seeking new careers as a result of transition from the military, underemployment and unemployment.

“We recognize the sacrifices that veterans and service members have made by serving our country, which is why Truist is committed to supporting them as they transition to civilian careers,” stated Dwight McPherson, regional managing sirector at Truist Wealth and Upstate Warrior Solution board member. “Our support of Upstate Warrior Solution’s Veteran Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development program will help veterans develop the skill sets and professional networks that are critical for their long-term success, and it’s another way we fulfill Truist’s purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities.”

Through Truist Foundation’s grant, Upstate Warrior Solution anticipates assisting an estimated 50 new clients through the Veteran Entrepreneurship program over the next year. In addition, UWS expects to increase the total number of veteran clients in their workforce development programs by 50%, offering them training opportunities around job acquisition and retention, professional development and entrepreneurship training, the release said.

“Thanks to the generous support of the Truist Foundation, our workforce and entrepreneurship programs will serve the Upstate veteran population by improving financial stability and providing economic mobility options,” Charlie Hall, president of Upstate Warrior Solution, said in the release.

Upstate Warrior Solution has served Upstate veterans, active and reserve military, first responders and their families for 10 years.

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