A chance for the 182 Infantry and all local veterans to meet with benefit providers and employers at a ONE-ON-ONE level -that is our goal in the next two weeks.  But we need your help!  Spread the word as we try and prevent veteran unemployment in our area and our great state.

Our office is helping to host a Veteran Job and Benefit Fair in honor of the 182 Infantry’s Return from Afghanistan on April 25^th at Memorial Hall on Main Street.  With veteran unemployment numbers soaring in the military-service-age group, it’s important that we FOCUS on this population, giving them every chance at success as they transition to civilian life.

The Job Fair begins at 10 a.m. providing veterans with a chance to meet with employers face-to-face.  Unlike some job fairs with a warehouse-type feel, this fair will put names to faces and resumes in the hands of those with job openings.

Similarly, the Benefits Fair will bring representatives from my office, the Department of Veteran Affairs, the VFW, UMass Boston and more to the Alderman’s Chambers at City Hall.  Although there are many briefings for soldiers and veterans about benefits, our goal here is to have the experts sit down with veteran one-on-one to help them file accurate and timely claims.

We feel this type of attention is important.  Sometimes paperwork and time constraints prevent job and benefit seekers from getting the help they need.  Our aim is to eliminate that part of the equation.

BUT, we can only do this with your help.  Spread the word so our warriors can return to their lives in a manner that promotes well-being and dignity.

Events and Participants:

Resume Writing Workshop – April 18^th, Melrose City Hall, 6 p.m.

Professional volunteers will give a presentation on job interviewing skills in addition to providing resources for those needing clothing and accessories necessary for obtaining employment.  The final portion of the workshop will provide one-on-one resume writing tips to ensure attendees are armed with up-to-date and effective resumes.

Job Fair – April 25^th, Memorial Hall, Main Street, 10 a.m.

Here veterans and local residents can meet with employers, hand in a resume and secure the interview that will help them get the job they want and need.

Benefit Fair – April 25^th, City Hall, Main Street, 10 a.m.

Here veterans and local residents will have one-on-one access to the organizations that provide the type of benefits necessary to smoothly transition to civilian life.

Participating Benefit Organizations

Melrose Veteran Services

Massachusetts Department of Veteran Services

Department of Veteran Affairs – Disability Compensation

Department of Veteran Affairs – Health Benefits

Red Sox Home Base Program

Melrose Voter Registration

UMass Boston – Veteran’s Upward Bound and GI Bill

State VFW Commander – VA Claim Assistance

Local VFW Chapters – Veteran Organization Sign-ups