U.S. veterans may have an easier transition to civilian life after Wal-Mart announced Wednesday that is is guaranteeing a job to those returning from active duty.
The world’s biggest retailer has been ramping up efforts to support American military veterans since its initial hiring program launched in 2013. More than 92,000 veterans have been hired since the debut of the company’s initiative.
Wal-Mart is increasing its original projection of hiring 100,000 veterans by 2018 to 250,000 by the end of 2020.
“Wal-Mart’s Veterans Welcome Home Commitment assures our nation’s veterans that there is an opportunity available for them through a much needed short-term job or the start of a long-term career,” said James Schmeling, co-founder of the Institute for Veterans and Military Families and managing director for programming.
The Wal-Mart initiative also supports programs that provide training, education and economic opportunities. Wal-Mart also offers grants to support these programs. In 2011, the company promised $20 million by 2015 for veterans and their families in these assistance programs. After the initiative was reached a year early, Walmart committed $20 million through 2019.
“We’ve experienced a tremendous response to the Veterans Welcome Home Commitment in our first two years, and as more service members transition out of active duty, we know we can do more,” said retired Brigadier General Gary Profit, Wal-Mart’s senior director of military programs.
“We believe veterans represent the largest, diverse, talent-rich pool in the world and are an essential segment of the next generation at Wal-Mart,” he said.
• Brennan Weiss can be reached at bweiss@washingtontimes.com.
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