First-ever event a chance to move beyond the standard job fair

NEW YORK (May 12, 2015) – On Monday, May 18, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the only national veterans organization based in New York City, will host its first Veteran Career Bootcamp at Civic Hall. This forward-thinking approach to addressing the full spectrum of veteran employment challenges will feature highly motivated and talented veteran members and top employer partners in the civic, technology and nonprofit worlds.

“As America withdraws from its longest conflicts, our veterans are transitioning back into the civilian world and we have a responsibility to guide them toward successful careers,” said IAVA CEO and Founder Paul Rieckhoff. “Veterans are an investment, not a charity. Yet, despite their demonstrated leadership capabilities and skills gained in the military, veterans face a higher unemployment rate than their civilian counterparts. Veterans have grown frustrated with traditional job fairs and impersonal employment programs. Additionally, many struggle connecting with individuals and organizations outside of their military networks. That’s why we are moving beyond the standard job fair, creating a unique platform for engaging veterans, mentors and employers on a whole new level.”

IAVA’s Veteran Career Bootcamp will offer approximately 40 veteran candidates highly individualized support from top-level private and nonprofit sector companies, such as LinkedIn, HirePurpose, Idealist, Indeed.com, and Vets in Tech, as well as peer mentors. Veterans will also have access to industry briefings focused on tech and public service careers, as well as career planning and personal branding advice. Experts will provide hard skills support, such as resume writing, networking and interviewing.

Unlike standard job fairs, IAVA’s Bootcamp will continue after the event. IAVA will leverage digital technology to effectively engage participants before, during, and after the event. Each veteran will be paired with a peer mentor, who will check in at least once per month for the next six months.

This highly individualized event is not open to the public. Veterans interested in participating should contact prism@iava.org.

What: IAVA Veteran Career Bootcamp
When: May 18, 10:00am-7:00pm
Where: Civic Hall, 156 5th Ave, New York, NY

Members of the media wishing to attend should contact press@iava.org.