New ERG Supports Veterans
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County veterans of military service are on a new mission: to launch an employee resources group focused on veterans. The ERG, named VALOR, is one of three ERGs “start-ups” joining the existing five groups this year.
The group has a new website, is currently compiling a list of interested members and has already participated in several ERG events this fall, including the unveiling of a dedicated exhibition space at the COC for diversity and inclusion—the ERG Wall.
VALOR anticipates attracting members from every group and across many departments.
“We cannot reiterate enough the message that we are an all-inclusive group,”said Carl Smith, a CAO staff officer leading the charge of forming VALOR. “This ERG was formed not only for vets, but for all those who support and align themselves with our military veterans and their families.”
Smith, who retired as a Chief Petty Officer with 20 years of service in July 2012, answered a few questions about the organization:
What is VALOR’s mission and what will be the group’s focus?
The mission of VALOR is to drive and support organization and individual growth through a network of colleagues leveraging their collective range of skills, talents, and diverse perspectives while being a resource to veterans and the County of San Diego.
Where is VALOR in the process of forming?
VALOR just finished finalizing our bylaws and has officially become a County ERG.
What are some of the challenges veterans see in the workplace?
Transition from active duty to civilian life is a common challenge and easily met with support from fellow veterans. For those employees who are still active reserve members, there could be the challenge of being deployed with their reserve unit and returning to work after your tour of duty. The County has always been an advocate and a resource to these reservists. There may also be some veterans who struggle with mental or physical disabilities from their time in service.
What programs/events will be offered to members? What is planned?
We see VALOR partnering with other ERGs to offer a lot of different programs and events together. As we gain members, we really want to engage them to be part of the process to develop the programs and events in which they would like to participate. Professional development workshops, guest speaker events, and social events are just some of the ideas being discussed.
Why is this ERG needed?
San Diego is a military town with a long and rich history of service through the various bases in our region. Many veterans and their families have settled in or returned to San Diego after their term of duty has ended. It seemed timely to create VALOR to provide a forum for veterans, colleagues and regional partners to support each other and County initiatives. Our vision gets to the core of why we created this ERG: A group that shows its patriotism by honoring and supporting the men and women who serve our country past and present.