Origin STORY
Every great mission begins with a moment of inspiration
The Hire Heroes USA origin story
In 2005, at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, John Bardis met a medically separated Army Sergeant who believed his injury had ended his future. John saw something different: leadership, discipline, and untapped potential. That encounter revealed a critical gap—highly capable military professionals entering a civilian workforce that often struggled to recognize their value.
What began as a single idea quickly grew. In 2007, the Health Careers Foundation made a defining decision to focus exclusively on helping veterans find meaningful careers. Three years later, the organization adopted a new name: Hire Heroes USA.
Building the engine
Initial support centered on in-person hiring events, resume assistance, interview coaching, and job search guidance. Early investments from supporters such as the George T. Lewis Foundation helped strengthen the organization’s ability to deliver these services to a growing military community.
Over time, those services evolved into a structured virtual coaching model. Hire Heroes USA moved beyond helping military-affiliated talent navigate employment challenges to building a scalable system that empowered them to pursue meaningful careers and long-term success.
The catalyst for growth
When current Chairman of the Board, Brian Stann, stepped in as CEO in 2009, he helped transform early growth into lasting infrastructure. Under his leadership, Hire Heroes USA expanded its reach and strengthened its impact.
As Hire Heroes USA’s mission gained momentum, so did the confidence of philanthropic and corporate partners. Support from organizations such as the PwC Charitable Foundation and Boeing helped accelerate Hire Heroes USA’s ability to serve transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses nationwide.
The organization evolved from helping individuals navigate employment in person to building a workforce development engine capable of serving thousands virtually.
Over 20 years of impact
Confirmed hires
SERVICES PROVIDED annually
RESUMES DEVLEOPED ANNUALLY
Redefining the role
As the model grew, so did the mission. Hire Heroes USA expanded its services to include military spouses, recognizing that family economic stability is mission-critical.
Funding from organizations such as the Bob Woodruff Foundation and Wells Fargo reflected a growing network of supporters committed to creating meaningful career opportunities for the military community. Deepening our employer partnerships, we invested in technology and data infrastructure, and refined our methodology with precision.
Advancing the legacy
For John Bardis, this work has always been personal. The son of a combat veteran, he saw firsthand the invisible wounds service can leave behind and the power of opportunity to help rebuild. For those who serve, the goal has always been simple: to return home, build a life, support a family, and pursue the American dream they defended.
More than 20 years later, Hire Heroes USA is no longer proving the concept. It has become a gold standard in veteran workforce development, earning the confidence of employers, partners, and the communities we serve.
Today, the mission to help the military community find stable, meaningful employment is more important than ever.
Your support makes a difference
Empower transitioning service members, veterans and military spouses to confidently turn their skills, experience, and determination into meaningful civilian careers and achieve lasting success.