Volunteer Spotlight: Cindy

When it comes to volunteering with Hire Heroes USA, Cindy Robak can think of nothing more rewarding. She takes pride in helping our clients overcome the obstacles that come with transitioning out of the military and finding the confidence to strive toward their career goals. Working together to determine ways the client can make those dreams a reality is what keeps Cindy driven and motivated to give of her time selflessly. 

Cindy found our services during the COVID-19 lockdown and loved the flexibility of being able to help virtually. Her extensive experience in human resources and leadership coaching have been paramount to the mentorship of over 20 different clients since she began.

“The years I have spent in Human Resources, particularly in the interview and selection process, helps me to share the perspective of a hiring manager when I work with clients. I reference examples of effective ways to respond to questions and what to avoid. I have utilized various approaches for interview questions at different companies, so it also helps to point this out and discuss ways to be as prepared as possible regardless of the type of questions they may be asked.”

Cindy’s experience and insight can be seen in our client feedback as well! Gaby R., a military spouse, shared this feedback:

“[Cindy] really gave me great perspective on how to approach my interview and how to position my experience. She really listened to my concerns and provided actionable advice that I applied successfully to a recent interview.”

So what can others do to follow Cindy’s footsteps and be that supportive figure for our service members, veterans and their families?

“I would encourage others to support veterans and military spouses by helping them build their professional network, refer them to job and learning opportunities that they may be interested in, share social media posts for those who are looking for opportunities, volunteer to practice interviewing with them and become a committed Hire Heroes USA volunteer!”

Cindy leads by example and brings a high level of care to each client she is paired with. Through her mentoring, coaching and networking skills, she has provided valuable guidance and support to those who have served our country and their families. Her contributions to Hire Heroes USA are truly commendable, and we are grateful for the passion and generosity she brings to our organization.

If you would like to make a difference in the lives of veterans and military spouses, please click here to learn more about volunteering with Hire Heroes USA.

Volunteer Spotlight: Tony

The possibilities of career paths for those in search of a new industry or job are endless. It can be daunting as a job seeker to navigate the plethora of information and options available through the noise. Tony Doster, a Hire Heroes USA volunteer, moved to the career transition support area five years ago and has worked with numerous Veteran Service Organizations. Tony recognized that available resources for those contemplating a more entrepreneurial future were not easy to find. He was driven to serve those who wanted to investigate the process of starting a business while still keeping their options open for employment. 

Tony quickly recognized he could serve those veterans who had the desire to do something different or to position themselves to have as many career options as possible. He has a strong desire to help veterans open the doors to the pathways available to them. 

“I find that witnessing the preserving attitude of the Veterans I speak with has been among the most rewarding experiences for me.  Some of these individuals have worked for years in careers that have been unrewarding – both professionally and financially. While there was frustration in the assessment of their current position, that would not deter them from seeking a better future. 

Then, when I have a discussion with these veterans and military spouses, I appreciate that they want to know about the options that may lay before them. They are willing to learn and use the newer technologies and processes to find a career in the civilian world. They generally acknowledge that while they may be unfairly categorized with their military backgrounds, they must overcome these misconceptions and directly confront all challenges.”

Tony is motivated by the fact that every veteran deserves to realize that their goals for employment or a new business are not unrealistic. He has worn many hats over the years. Tony has experience in both large and small business development, federal and state government, Wall Street, retail,  restaurant ownership, and has also taught as a college instructor. He’s lived in seven states, acquired multiple college degrees and held several professional licenses at various times. This makes Tony especially relatable to the military community. 

“Along with the fact that I am generally curious, conversations come easy. I believe that information is the key to dispelling many unknowns, and that confidence can only come when these fears are addressed.”

Tony’s capacity to see the unique set of skills that each veteran possesses is powerful and has helped many redirect the course of their careers. His incredible ability to truly “see” his clients and offer them just what they need at the right time is an aspect of what brings him joy in serving others. 

“I always get excited whenever I see an email from Hire Heroes USA detailing a volunteer opportunity.  What a treat it is, and a humbling responsibility, to have others share with you an important part of their future! It just feels good to think that perhaps something you can provide will give that veteran or military spouse a more rewarding career.”

Tony’s unwavering heart, tireless hours and consistent dedication to veterans is admirable.  We are deeply grateful for his compassion and character and the impact he has had on the military community.

If you would like to make a difference in the lives of veterans and military spouses, please click here to learn more about volunteering with Hire Heroes USA.

Volunteer Spotlight: Dan

The mentorship and guidance provided during a new career search is invaluable to a job seeker. Volunteer Dan Riley was inspired by his mentor, Anton Fritz, during his own military transition to ‘pay it forward’. Now, Dan is giving back by providing support, tangible advice and direction to veterans and military spouses at Hire Heroes USA. 

When asked what the most rewarding part of volunteering with Hire Heroes USA was, Dan said, “I enjoy helping each person to recognize their proven transferable skills and teaching them how to market those skills to prospective employers.”

Dan’s background in sales, customer service, human resource management and the staffing industry gives him an ability to provide his clients with a holistic approach to their career search needs. His robust work with the executive leadership of Fortune 500 companies allows him to guide fellow veterans in ensuring their military career is a stepping stone into their civilian career. 

“Take the time to identify your proven transferable skills and the results that you have achieved using those skills.  This will enable you to respond more effectively during interviews and convey your value to a prospective employer.”

Dan also understands the value of networking and encourages veterans and military spouses to reach back and connect with those they already know, as well as reach out and connect with new individuals on their job search path. When one military spouse or veteran is supported, he recognizes that the entire group is uplifted. Dan has personally seen his clients be able to provide support and encouragement to their own family members after moving through a successful career transition. 

Dan describes his role as a volunteer as a rewarding extension of his career in the military. He sees the priceless value of giving back the same lessons that have been gifted to him by those who came before him. We are grateful to Dan not only for the decades of professional experience that he speaks from, but also his life experience and heart that makes him an exceptional asset to the volunteer team. 

If you would like to make a difference in the lives of veterans and military spouses, please click here to learn more about volunteering with Hire Heroes USA.

Volunteer Spotlight: Cory

Networking with professionals and rapport-building are integral aspects of any job-searching strategy. Hire Heroes USA volunteer Cory Hamma takes pride in each and every conversation he has with clients and spends just as much time actively listening as he does providing guidance for next best steps.

“The experience of meeting that first client, and all the subsequent clients, has truly been heartwarming and rewarding. I cannot overstate how thankful the clients are for my time and advice, whether I am helping them revise their resume, reviewing their LinkedIn profile, or generally helping them find a direction that suits their personality, interests and experience.”

Cory enjoys frank and honest dialogue with clients about their career path and exploring career options that may not have been on a veteran’s radar.  He works to provide them direction based on his expertise in information security, digital forensics and information technology. His strong and robust professional background that he’s built over the years gives him the ability to relate to clients and understand the reality of charting a successful career path. 

“We talk candidly about networking, education options, certifications, pay expectations, and the difference between what you see on TV and movies versus the actual job experience. It is incredibly rewarding to receive a follow-up email from a client proudly announcing that they interviewed and were hired for a job in their interest area.” 

Cory’s genuine approach to serving his clients and meeting them where they’re at is evident in his client’s gratitude.  We are incredibly thankful for Cory’s dedication, commitment and the heart he leads with on the Hire Heroes USA volunteer team.

If you would like to make a difference in the lives of veterans and military spouses, please click here to learn more about volunteering with Hire Heroes USA.

Volunteer Spotlight: Jonathan

Job searching can be equal parts strategy, discipline and desire. Jonathan Childs, Hire Heroes USA volunteer, helps clients not only zone in on the next step in their career, but also provides the direction and guidance necessary to make veterans not feel as alone in the process.  

“This has become my passion working in workforce development. I wanted to give back, so I started researching opportunities to volunteer and I found Hire Heroes USA. While I never served, I wanted to give back to those who have served and keep us safe,” said Jonathan. 

Jonathan calls upon his background in education and career counseling to help guide his clients towards their career goals. He works at the American Job Center in Meriden, CT as a Facilitator and career coach where he designs and facilitates workshops for unemployed and underemployed individuals as well as provide career coaching for job seekers. The time he’s spent giving back to Hire Heroes clients has been invaluable. 

“It’s been a wonderful experience getting to know and helping so many different and talented individuals. In addition, working with the staff has been great, well organized, and professional which makes it a nice working relationship. I would encourage anyone to volunteer with this organization.”

With an extensive track record of success helping people cope with change, overcome barriers and find employment, we asked what one piece of advice would be for those that are looking to make a career shift. 

“If I had one piece of guidance to offer it would be for people to network, and have informational interviews to tap into the hidden job market where 80% of the jobs are not posted. Also, be creative in your job search efforts!”

Johnathan’s enthusiasm and dedication to his clients is evident in the way he provides tangible and actionable assistance. We are thankful for the time and efforts that he has given to the Hire Heroes USA volunteer team.

If you would like to make a difference in the lives of veterans and military spouses, please click here to learn more about volunteering with Hire Heroes USA.