TVC connected with Texas National Guard members at events hosted by Texas Military Department’s Soldier and Family Readiness Program in late February 2024.
Among the TVC programs there was Veteran Employment Services, represented by Homero Prado, Jr. He worked to connect job seeking Guard members and veterans with employment resources in their hometowns.
“Prado informed all the personnel with questions regarding employment to visit their nearest American Job Center or Workforce Solutions Center located near their hometown. Additionally, he encouraged them to register and update their WorkInTexas.com accounts. If eligible, they would be referred to a TVC Veteran Career Advisor or Rural Veteran Career Advisor near their hometown,” said Laurie Pimentel-Johnson, TVC Veteran Employment Services South Texas District Outreach Coordinator and Army veteran.
In addition to Employment Services, TVC had representatives from Education, Claims, Health Care Advocacy and Entrepreneur Program at the events. Guard members and veteran attending were provided information about TVC programs and services; plus, had the opportunity to ask TVC representatives direct questions regarding their program. Pictured at the Eagle Pass event are from left Zavala County Veteran Service Officer Diana Cruz-Montoya, TVC Claims Benefits Advisor Jazmin Garcia, TVC Claims Southwest District Manager Mike Jaeger, TVC Education Outreach Coordinator Tonya Bailey, TVC Health Care Advocate, Maria Ramirez-Shrout, TVC Entrepreneur Program Veteran Business Consultant Jose Sanchez and TVC Employment Services District Coach-Rural Veterans Career Advisor Homero Prado.
In addition to meeting with Guard personnel, the events created the opportunity for the TVC team to engage with participating community partners.
“Each event attracted over a dozen community partners and provided the opportunity to preserve and enhance relationships with them. Prado played a vital role in preserving and enhancing relationships with community partners, particularly with the Soldier and Family Readiness Program,” said Pimentel-Johnson.
These Texas Military Department’s Soldier and Family Readiness Program events were held in Crystal City on February 21 and Eagle Pass on February 22. The Crystal City event attracted approximately 175 attendees and the Eagle Pass event attracted approximately 275.
“Veterans who were previously unaware of TVC were provided with essential information regarding the services they needed. This outreach not only strengthened community ties but also ensured that those in need related to the resources and support available to them through TVC,” said Pimentel-Johnson.
Find TVC Employment Services in your area at https://www.twc.texas.gov/directory-workforce-solutions-offices-services