For the past 131 years, Americans have set aside the first Monday in September to honor its workers. This Labor Day, as we take a day off from our jobs—which we are increasingly grateful to have, given the tough economic climate —  Goodwill of Northwest North Carolina is asking folks to consider another group of people: the men and women who have served us overseas and often struggle to find jobs when they return from active duty.

 

Since World War I, Goodwill has helped America’s military veterans transition back to civilian life and re-enter the workforce. With 500 members of the military changing out of their uniforms and into civilian clothes every day, this mission is now more crucial than ever. Goodwill has launched several programs and initiatives dedicated to helping these veterans find jobs and ensure that their families succeed in the long term. We are proud to be one of the first nonprofit organizations to answer the White House’s call to help military veterans and their families succeed on the home front, including finding job opportunities for military spouses and veterans, by signing on as a partner of the Joining Forces campaign through our “Goodwill for America’s Heroes and their Families” initiative.

 

We each have our own plans for relaxation and unwinding this Labor Day — whether it’s heading to the malls or spending one last day at the beach. As we enjoy this day off, Goodwill is asking all Americans to take just a few minutes and consider our 20 million veterans, including those who are struggling to find jobs and make ends meet for their families.

 

Want to know how you can help? Take a few minutes to visit Joining Forces and learn how you can support our troops and their families. If you’re a local employer, consider the difference you can make by hiring veterans or their family members. And, of course, when taking advantage of Labor Day shopping sales, consider shopping at and donating your used goods to a local Goodwill store; your contribution will help the effort to find jobs for military veterans and their families.

 

Our veterans have given their all to ensure that our country succeeds. The least we can do is make sure that they have every opportunity to succeed here at home. We wish all of those in our community a happy Labor Day, and we hope that you’ll take a minute to help our veterans and their families get back to work.

 

Read more about the Joining Forces initiative at www.whitehouse.gov/joiningforces/.