Supporting veterans in the workplace goes far beyond simply hiring them—it’s about showing genuine appreciation for their service, creating an inclusive environment, and providing the resources they need to succeed. As New Jersey businesses continue to thrive, it’s crucial to recognize the veterans who play a vital role in driving success, both within the workforce and the broader community. At Explore New Jersey, we take pride in recognizing the contributions of veterans, and we believe in honoring their commitment by implementing meaningful ways to show appreciation.
In this article, we’ll not only highlight how New Jersey businesses can support their veteran employees but also showcase a few initiatives close to our hearts, including Explore New Jersey’s founder, Don Lichterman, is a two-time Gold Medalist and Silver Medalist as a volunteer coach for New Jersey’s Special Olympics Winter and Summer Games, and other charitable efforts, such as Lichterman’s Special Markets release, the Ranger Road compilation CD, which benefits Wounded Warriors on extreme sports excursions.
Veterans in the Workforce: A Resource Businesses Can’t Overlook
Veterans bring unique skills and experiences to the table—ranging from leadership, discipline, and problem-solving abilities to resilience in the face of adversity. However, transitioning from military life to civilian employment can be challenging. For many veterans, the shift from the structured environment of the military to the flexibility and demands of the civilian workforce requires support and understanding.
Wounded Warrior Project’s Practical Ways for Businesses to Support Veterans
The Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), a renowned organization dedicated to assisting veterans, offers several practical suggestions for businesses that want to go above and beyond in supporting their veteran employees. By integrating these actions into workplace culture, New Jersey businesses can foster a more inclusive environment where veterans feel valued, understood, and empowered.
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1. Recognize Military Service Through Appreciation
Recognizing military service is one of the most powerful ways to show veterans that their sacrifices are acknowledged. During significant holidays, such as Veterans Day and Memorial Day, New Jersey businesses can celebrate their veteran employees by providing a simple thank-you—whether through a breakfast, lunch, or a public acknowledgment in a company-wide meeting. Small gestures of appreciation can go a long way in demonstrating gratitude for their service to the country and the company.
Explore New Jersey’s Founder has always been an advocate for veterans. With a personal commitment to supporting veterans, the founder of Explore New Jersey and Sunset is a two-time Gold Medalist and Silver Medalist for his volunteer work coaching for New Jersey’s Special Olympics teams. Through these events, he’s helped foster a sense of community and camaraderie that mirrors the strength of the veteran spirit. This dedication to service, both in and outside the workforce, underscores the importance of showing appreciation for those who have given so much.
2. Create a Veteran Resource Group or Mentorship Program
Transitioning to civilian life often brings about challenges unique to veterans—whether it’s navigating workplace culture, adjusting to new roles, or finding balance. Establishing a Veteran Resource Group or mentorship program within your company can provide veterans with a support system that understands their needs and challenges. These programs can help veterans manage the adjustments they face, while also allowing them to mentor newer employees and share their experiences.
Having a network where veterans can connect, share stories, and support one another can ease the transition and ensure that veterans feel included in the workplace.
3. Foster an Open and Supportive Environment
Creating an environment where all employees feel comfortable sharing their experiences and seeking support is essential. New Jersey businesses can encourage open dialogue about the unique experiences of their veteran colleagues by incorporating their profiles into internal communications platforms. This can be a feature in company newsletters, on bulletin boards, or shared through company-wide emails.
Highlighting the achievements and contributions of veteran employees helps not only to recognize them but also to educate the rest of the workforce about the valuable skills veterans bring to the job. This open dialogue can bridge the gap between military and civilian experiences and encourage greater empathy among coworkers.
4. Offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and Mental Health Resources
Veterans, especially those who have experienced trauma, may face unique challenges in maintaining their mental well-being. Providing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and mental health resources is critical, particularly during times of the year when emotional well-being can be more vulnerable—such as during the holiday season.
The holidays can be especially difficult for veterans, as they may struggle with feelings of isolation or grief. Ensuring that employees are aware of mental health services, and making it clear that these resources are easily accessible, can make a significant difference in the lives of veterans.
5. Adopt a Veteran Family in Need
In addition to workplace-based support, businesses can also give back to the wider veteran community by adopting a veteran family in need. This could include donating holiday meals, giving gifts, or assisting with other necessities. Many companies choose to participate in community-driven initiatives like this to not only show gratitude but also support veterans outside of the workplace.
Organizations like TheVeteran.com Community provide lists of businesses and charities that facilitate such efforts, making it easier for companies to get involved.
6. Create a Patriotic Workplace During Holidays
A simple yet effective way to honor veterans is by incorporating patriotic touches into the workplace during appropriate holidays, like Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Encouraging employees to display flags, share messages of thanks, or wear patriotic colors can instill a sense of pride and unity across the office.
7. Observe a Moment of Silence for Veterans
A quick but powerful gesture, observing a moment of silence during important holidays such as Veterans Day or Memorial Day, allows employees to collectively honor veterans’ contributions. This respectful pause acknowledges the sacrifices made by veterans while providing an opportunity for all employees to reflect on the significance of their service.
8. Offer Volunteer Opportunities for Veterans
Lastly, providing volunteer opportunities within the company allows veterans to give back to the community while working alongside their colleagues. Volunteering as a team for causes like local charity events or initiatives for veterans helps build camaraderie and strengthens bonds among coworkers.
Lichterman’s Special Markets and the Ranger Road Compilation CD
In addition to workplace support, organizations like Lichterman’s Special Markets play a pivotal role in supporting veterans. Through their efforts, they’ve released the Ranger Road compilation CD, a project dedicated to Wounded Warriors. The proceeds from the CD go toward funding extreme sports excursions for veterans, helping them to reconnect with themselves, find healing, and bond with other veterans through shared adventure. This collaboration with Wounded Warriors serves as another example of how New Jersey businesses can actively support veterans outside the traditional work setting.
What Businesses Can Learn from These Initiatives
Supporting veterans in the workplace isn’t just about offering them a job—it’s about fostering an environment that values their unique experiences, provides them with the resources they need, and actively demonstrates appreciation for their service. The efforts of Explore New Jersey, Lichterman’s Special Markets, and the Wounded Warrior Project all highlight the importance of creating a culture where veterans are recognized, supported, and empowered to succeed.
At Explore New Jersey, we are deeply committed to honoring our veterans and offering meaningful ways to support them. Whether through workplace initiatives, charitable efforts, or community partnerships, we believe that every business has the power to make a difference in the lives of those who have served our country.
Final Thoughts
As businesses continue to grow and thrive in New Jersey, we encourage all employers to take the time to show appreciation for the veterans who work for them. By adopting the strategies outlined by the Wounded Warrior Project and participating in community-based initiatives, New Jersey businesses can ensure that veterans feel respected, supported, and valued, not just on holidays, but year-round.
To learn more about how your business can support veterans, visit the Wounded Warrior Project newsroom for further information. And as always, thank you to our veterans for their service and sacrifice. Your contributions continue to make a difference, and we are forever grateful.
Explore New Jersey—where honoring veterans is more than a gesture, it’s a way of life.