A Veteran’s Journey to Housing and Career Success
Derrick, an Army veteran with four years of active-duty service and honorably discharged at the rank of E4, enrolled in S:US’ veterans services program with a strong interest in pursuing a career in the security field.
He began working with an employment case manager to complete the Job Club workshop and develop an individualized service plan tailored to his career goals. Shortly after, he was referred to the job developer and training specialist to explore employment opportunities and identify the necessary certifications to enhance his job prospects.
With the support of a training and employment specialist, Derrick successfully obtained his security guard and fireguard licenses through our training partner, Guardian Group Services. His resume was customized to align with security industry standards, and the job developer facilitated referrals to multiple security companies. However, due to ongoing housing-related appointments while residing in a shelter, he was unable to accept job offers at that time. Recognizing the need for stability, he decided to temporarily pause his job search to focus on securing permanent housing.
After receiving approval for a Department of Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) voucher, Derrick worked closely with our Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) team to transition into stable housing. During this period, we provided essential support, including winter clothing, interview attire, groceries, and holiday assistance. Once his housing placement was finalized, he was ready to resume his employment search.
Reconnecting with the job developer, Derrick was referred to an employer partner for an overnight security position. His additional fireguard certification strengthened his candidacy, and after a successful interview, he was offered a position with a competitive pay rate of $35 per hour, equating to $70,000 per year. He officially started his new role and has since achieved both stable housing and long-term employment.
Derrick’s journey highlights the impact of a comprehensive, client-centered approach that integrates employment support, training, and housing stability services. Now earning a sustainable income, he has expressed profound gratitude to the team and partners who supported him throughout this process, recognizing the collective effort that contributed to his success.
We extend our deepest appreciation to the Bob Woodruff Foundation for awarding S:US a generous grant to expand our support services to veterans in New York City and Long Island. Thanks to their support, veterans like Derrick can achieve long-term stability and meaningful employment, reinforcing our joint missions to support those who have served.