Raymond, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, approached PVA’s Veteran employment program, PVA Veterans Career Program, in March 2019. For over 10 years, Raymond had been an active volunteer with the Mid-Atlantic PVA chapter, but was seeking employment so he could be more engaged and have additional financial resources.

Given Raymond’s time away from full-time work, the first step was to develop a resume and refresh skills that would be key to his success. Raymond worked with Veterans Career Program Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, Allison Borden and she provided him resources to gain Microsoft Office skills. Allison helped Raymond determine different kinds of work that would fit his skills and personality. Raymond was eager to learn, but also anxious about returning to work after so much time away.

Allison and Raymond identified UPS as a potential employer that has the culture, accommodations and opportunities in the area for Raymond to be successful. Fortunately, Raymond had the opportunity to engage and network with the local UPS representative at a PVA Bass Fishing Tournament in Richmond, VA. He also spent time with Allison, preparing for his interview.

In July, Raymond accepted and started his new career with UPS as a dispatcher.