On this Veterans’ Day, we salute the 1.3 million veterans for their contributions to Florida’s workforce.
They left the military with many qualities that employers value: professionalism, a strong work ethic, a sense of duty, ability to follow direction. Research shows that vets are more likely to pursue higher education, start businesses and move beyond entry-level jobs.
But warning signs persist. Barriers hold veterans back, such as the need for treating post-traumatic stress disorder, navigating the civilian bureaucracy, and helping vets feel valued and connected.
A recent national study by the Wounded Warrior Project found that more than half of the veterans served were working but underemployed. That includes veterans who say they have been unable to find jobs that were a match for their educations and skills, as well as those who want full-time work but are making ends meet with one or more part-time jobs.
One in four Florida veterans is part of the “ALICE” cohort. The acronym refers to families with at least one working member whose household income cannot meet basic needs (it stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed).
Veterans deserve better. In fact, Florida does better than many other states at meeting veterans’ needs. The state Department of Veterans Affairs collaborates with the federal government to assist in their transitions to civilian life.
Regional workforce development agencies offer targeted job programs matching employers with workers who have the skills they are looking for, along with training and counseling. Other programs assist veterans living with mental illness, substance abuse or homelessness.
But it’s not enough, and many programs are threatened by budget cuts as political leaders seek to cut taxes by reducing services.
Government needs to protect veterans (and non-veterans, too) by chasing predatory businesses that try to scam vets with dubious educational programs that can drain their bank accounts without providing real skills.
Veterans chose to serve their country at a time when they could have been laying the groundwork for a successful civilian life. America owes them a chance to catch up. When veterans thrive, they contribute to their communities’ economic and social well-being.
Prioritizing these patriots is a victory for all.
The Sun Sentinel Editorial Board consists of Opinion Editor Steve Bousquet, Deputy Opinion Editor Dan Sweeney, editorial writers Pat Beall and Martin Dyckman, and Executive Editor Gretchen Day-Bryant. To contact us, email at letters@sun-sentinel.com.