Unemployment has been a major problem within the veteran community at several points throughout the past century, sometimes more intensely than others. Currently, matters are looking positive for veterans who are looking to either work or begin their own businesses as entrepreneurs. Last month, MilitaryTimes reported that last year was by far the most promising one for veterans who served after Sept. 11.
The news provider stated that the unemployment rate hit 5.8 percent on average across states in 2015 for veterans who served in the past 15 years, which is arguably unprecedented given the 7.2 percent rate recorded in 2014. Nationwide efforts, both large and small, are proving successful. The upward trend of veteran employment opportunities still looks positive going into the second quarter of 2016.
Uber's big move
CNET recently reported that ride-sharing giant Uber began a program back in the fall of 2014 called UberMilitary to put veterans to work, and it has been a major success thus far. According to the source, the program has since seen its participation rise to 50,000, with about 25,000 veterans already driving for the company. Interestingly, this particular initiative sought to address more than unemployment within the veteran community.
Drunk driving is sometimes more common in the vicinity of military bases. Uber saw the opportunity for veterans to help would-be impaired drivers get home safely. So not only do the drivers get paid, but they protect the community as well. CNET reported that several members of the UberMilitary advisory board are high-ranking military commanders.
In addition to boosting job opportunities, CNET noted that Uber donated $1 million to veterans groups as part of reaching the 50,000 participant mark.
Fairs sprouting up
The Modesto Bee reported that the Central Valley Job Fair and Veterans Summit that took place in Modesto, California this month was successful in connecting employers and veterans who were looking for jobs in the area. The news provider stated that programs that help to bridge the gap between skills learned in the military and those needed in the private sector could potentially reduce the unemployment rate in the veteran community even further.