Celebrating National Hire a Veteran Day – July 25
At Goodwill of Orange County, we’re proud to support those who’ve served our country—and we know that hiring a veteran is more than a gesture of gratitude. It’s a strategic investment in leadership, resilience, and mission-driven excellence.
As we recognize National Hire a Veteran Day on July 25, here are some benefits to bring a veteran onto your team:
Proven Leadership and Teamwork
Veterans bring real-world leadership experience and understand how to lead by example while working cohesively within a team. Military service teaches individuals to function effectively under pressure, delegate responsibilities, and motivate others toward a common goal. These leadership skills translate seamlessly into the workplace, benefiting teams of all sizes and industries.
Resilience and Adaptability
Veterans are trained to operate in high-stress and unpredictable environments. They know how to stay focused, adapt quickly, and make sound decisions in the face of changing conditions. This mental toughness and flexibility make them highly effective in dynamic work settings where agility and composure are key to success.
Diversity of Experience and Global Perspective
Having served in multicultural and often international settings, veterans bring a wealth of diverse experiences and perspectives to any organization. They’re accustomed to working with people from different backgrounds and cultures, which fosters inclusivity and enhances team collaboration. Their global awareness and strong communication skills are valuable in today’s interconnected business world.
Access to Tax Credits
Employers who hire eligible veterans may qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which provides up to $9,600 in tax savings per qualified veteran. This includes veterans with service-connected disabilities or those who have faced long-term unemployment. These financial incentives not only reward companies for inclusive hiring but also help offset onboarding and training costs.
Mission-Oriented Mindset
One of the most distinct qualities veterans bring is a deep-rooted commitment to completing the mission. In the military, failing to meet objectives is not an option—and that mentality carries over into civilian employment. Veterans understand the importance of performance metrics, goals, and accountability. They often approach business objectives with laser focus, making them ideal employees for organizations seeking results-driven team members who are naturally aligned with achieving KPIs.
The Tierney Center: Serving Those Who Served
At Goodwill of Orange County, we proudly operate the Tierney Center for Veteran Services—a comprehensive, all-in-one resource for veterans and their families. Since its founding in 2016, the Tierney Center has served more than 13,000 veterans, offering no-cost services that include:
-Employment assistance and job placement
-Training and skill development
-Health and wellness support, including mental health services
-Housing assistance and emergency shelter
-Legal services and VA claims support
-Education guidance and GI Bill navigation
-Peer support networks to foster community and connection 1 2 3
“The Tierney Center is more than a service hub—it’s a lifeline”. As one veteran, Melanie Alvarez, shared: “Thanks to the supportive services provided by the Tierney Center, I was able to go through the process and have a safe place to stay. I’m happy to report that I did get approved for long-term housing assistance”
Let’s Honor Their Service with Opportunity
This July 25, let’s go beyond appreciation and take action. Hiring a veteran means welcoming a teammate who brings discipline, integrity, and an unstoppable drive to succeed. It’s not just good for business—it’s good for our communities.
If you are interested in having a veteran join your team, visit tierneycenter.org.
