Veterans in the Workplace: The Power of Support

After graduating college, I took a job as a retail store manager, but I quickly realized that I was looking for something more. While it was fun, it didn’t bring me the joy and feeling of accomplishment that I wanted. One day I heard the “Be All You Can Be” slogan on a radio advertisement for the U.S. Army, and it really piqued my interest. I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to be or do with my life and, as impulsive as it may seem, I went right to the recruitment station and signed up for the Army. I’m glad that I did!

The military provided me with everything I was looking for and more. It challenged me both physically and mentally and pushed me to limits I never imagined I could reach and achieve. It was empowering! It also gave me the opportunity to develop my leadership skills, which prepared me for my role as an officer. I learned so many lessons in the military and made many good friends — it’s an experience I will never forget!

Finding My Way in the Civilian World

After eight years of service, I left the Army and settled back into civilian life. I joined Independence Blue Cross but found the transition to a corporate environment very challenging. I was used to the structure and pace of the military. I also missed being around other service members.

I left Independence but returned in 2015 and was very pleased to learn that they had launched the IVets, an associate resource group for veterans.

Supporting Vets

Being part of the IVets has been such a positive experience for me. They make me feel supported at work — knowing that there is a group of people who understand my unique experiences and challenges as a veteran and are there for me is very comforting.

Besides offering comradery, it also allows me to give back to the veteran community. We support several veterans organizations including the Women’s Veteran Center, The Veterans Group, and the USO Christmas in July Program. We also host recruiting and networking events for veterans and help raise awareness to veterans’ issues, such as suicide awareness.

Exciting New Initiatives

During my time as a group leader with the IVets, we added some exciting initiatives to continue supporting our veterans. In May 2019, we launched our first mentorship program for veterans, the IVet to IVET Partnership Program (IIPP). This program matches Independence veteran associates in mentee and mentor roles. Together, they will support and help each other navigate their career paths.

In addition, we held our first Veterans Supporter Appreciation Day celebration in 2019. This program recognized key associates within our organization who consistently supported IVets and our veteran community. The program was so successful and well received by our associates that the IVets decided to make this an annual event. The next Veterans Supporter Appreciation Day celebration will be held this year during Veterans Week.

We also launched a wellness program called I-Ride with IVets. Through this program, associates can sign up to take bi-weekly group bicycle rides throughout the city with member of the IVets — it not only allows associates to explore the city, but also gives them to opportunity to network with fellow associates.

Support From Fellow Associates

Our first ride was on April 17, 2019, and we were thrilled at the support we received — 17 Independence associates signed up for I-Rides! The weather that day was perfect, too (65 degrees and sunny). Everyone was really excited and energized, so we ended up extending our trip and riding past Boathouse Row. We look forward to continue providing great rides!

Looking Forward

I’ve been back at Independence for five years now, and I’m so appreciative of the men and women who are part of the IVets… they’re like family. I look forward to being a part of the group and helping support new veterans to the organization who may be struggling to readjust to civilian life. After all, I know what it feels like! Most importantly, I look forward to helping provide hope and support for so many veterans in the community.