Proposal Presented for the Master Plan For Aging (#96)
Disclaimer
Throughout the MPA process, more than 100 proposals were developed thanks in particular to thousands of hours of work by external stakeholders and members of the public. These proposals and the MPA Council commentary are being submitted to the Governor and shared with policymakers and the public to inform policymaking. These proposals represent a starting point for discussion. Further discussion is necessary between relevant state agencies and stakeholders to both refine these proposals and assess which may be appropriate to adopt and implement.
Summary
Establish new resources and programs to increase education and employment opportunities for older veterans.
Justification
Older veterans have limited access to continued education or job opportunities outside of the military due to transferable skills not being accepted, being older in standard educational settings, and/or lack of access to education and employment opportunities.
Full Proposal
- Improve the quality of life for Veterans through the creation of a Lifelong Learning Program that offers opportunities for learning and employment assistance.
- Collaborate with schools, job agencies and Veteran support groups.
- Secure funding through state and federal grants for education and employment as well as private and corporate contributions.
- Monitor program outcomes, overall satisfaction levels, and overall program participation.
- Provide continuing education courses at college and universities including online options for convenience.
- Conduct skill development workshops covering topics such as literacy, financial planning, and health management.
- Aid Veterans in obtaining verifications and training for careers or hobbies.
- Establish services to assist Veterans in finding employment that aligns with their skills and interests.
- Provide entrepreneurship programs, resources, and supports to Veterans interested in launching businesses including business planning and accessing funding.
- Create a network of part-time and flexible job opportunities which cater to the needs of Veterans.
- Establish mentorship programs connecting Veterans and other professionals for guidance and support.
- Organize networking event programming to facilitate connections and job opportunities within the Veteran community and beyond.
- Create a Veteran’s Volunteer program available in local communities to enable Veteran’s to contribute to their communities, engage in governance, community committees, and advocacy associations.
MPA Council Commentary
This proposal is categorized as near-term and is currently being implemented at DVS. State agency partners can continue to collaborate to successfully implement this proposal. Any additional resources or funding allocations that may be necessary would be subject to the annual budget process and available resources.