Happy Memorial Day from the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia! We honor those who have served our country by reflecting on the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting military personnel and their families. Over 200,000 residents of Northern Virginia are current or former military, including 24,000 on active duty, 18,000 in training for reserves or national guard, and 168,000 veterans. The needs of this population are diverse, as described in our 2014 report on veterans in Northern Virginia. The Community Foundation supports our region’s military and their families through the Military Personnel & Their Families Fund, made possible by generous donors to the Permanent Fund, a perpetual source of community support.
This Memorial Day, we’re proudly spotlighting the work of a past grantee organization, Easterseals DC MD VA. This nonprofit organization enriches lives and expands opportunities for children and adults in our communities, particularly those with disabilities and military backgrounds. With effective programs in healthcare, education, and employment support, Easterseals helps clients achieve short-term stability and long-term goals. The nonprofit also maintains key partnerships with diverse community organizations to expand its reach and impact.
In 2024, funding from The Military Personnel & Their Families Fund supported further outreach of Easterseals’ Veteran Staffing Network (VSN) in Northern Virginia. The increased reach enabled VSN to help hundreds of veterans and military spouses secure well-paying jobs aligned with their skills and experience. These beneficiaries represented a wide range of income levels and abilities, including individuals who faced significant employment barriers and who had struggled to find help elsewhere. Thanks to Easterseals’ efforts, these individuals improved their financial stability, sense of purpose, and confidence in the future.
One of the greatest challenges veterans face is transitioning to a civilian career, often facing perceived gaps in industry-specific skills and experience. Easterseals supports individuals through this transition by providing personalized career coaching, resume and interview preparation, and active engagement with employers to advocate for the value of military experience. By helping individuals bridge the gap between military and civilian success, Easterseals translates the expertise of our nation’s heroes for the benefit of hiring organizations.
Some Easterseals staff members aim to help veterans due to personal motivations. Take Vanessa, the Finance & Operations Manager of Veteran Staffing Network, who shared
“I remember my dad’s profound difficulty shifting from his 28-year Air Force career to civilian jobs. At Easterseals, I proudly support veterans and military spouses finding jobs more easily.” –Vanessa, Finance & Operations Manager, Veteran Staffing Network
When asked, "What has the organization been able to accomplish with that 2024 The Military Personnel and Their Families Fund grant?", the impact is clear.
“Thanks to our employment services and the support received through Community Investment Funds, people with military backgrounds and their spouses attained meaningful careers, increased salary levels, higher job retention rates, and the ability to be self-sufficient,” a representative shared. “All of this resulted in an overall improved quality of life. The funding has not only empowered individuals to achieve economic stability but has also strengthened families and communities by opening doors to long-term opportunity."
Thank you to Easterseals for their dedication in improving the lives of veterans and veteran and military spouses. To learn more, visit The Military Personnel & Their Families Fund page.
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