Volunteer Spotlight: Andrea
Since she was young, Andrea Kislik understood the importance of serving others. Whether it was a community service event or an opportunity to volunteer, Andrea wanted to help. When COVID-19 sent veteran unemployment to its highest recorded rate and canceled in-person events, she was compelled to join the Hire Heroes USA volunteer team.
“I saw a post on LinkedIn about virtual volunteering with Hire Heroes USA. I quickly realized this was a safe way for me to volunteer and make a positive impact in the world,” Andrea said.
From her very first call with a Hire Heroes USA client, it was clear that Andrea cared deeply about the person on the other end of the line. She used her personal experience of changing careers and shifting industries multiple times to inform and inspire veterans and military spouses going through a similar transition.
“When speaking with clients, I talk about my experience of feeling lost and confused and how I moved on to bigger and better opportunities,” she said. “I can relate to the concerns of uncertainty the clients have about retiring and transitioning from military to civilian positions.”
Since Andrea started as a volunteer with Hire Heroes USA, she has taken extra steps to ensure success for her clients. She attended her first Volunteer Advisory Committee meeting in January and takes diligent notes during each of her phone sessions with clients.
It’s part of the reason why so many of the veterans and spouses who speak with her find success in their job search.
“I often smile and cry at the same time when reading emails I receive from clients,” Andrea said. “I have spoken with sixteen clients and each client is unique in their own way. Many of my clients have started new positions. I always enjoy hearing about their new work experiences and how thankful the client is for my advice.”
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.