National Community of Churches Provides Veterans Faith-based Job Search and Career Transition Help

Contact: Brian Ray, 704-557-0300

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Nov. 11, 2011 /Standard Newswire/ -- Of the 11.2 million veterans in the workforce last month, 859,000 are unemployed with 40 percent being unemployed for 27 weeks or longer, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. These alarming statistics, along with the additional military returning from Iraq, prompted Crossroads Career Network (CCN), a national community of churches providing faith-based, job search and career transition resources, to create Hiring a Veteran Career Resources.

Leveraging its proven "Maximize Your Career" workbook, Crossroads Career government and military volunteers conduct career workshops as part of the Transition program to help veterans re-enter the job market with ease. The instructors bring to life the 6-step, 80-page workbook by tailoring the presentation to address the specific needs and challenges that veterans face.

Veterans offer employers valuable military skills that often are unmatched in the marketplace. At the same time, employers receive a tax credit of $5600 for hiring a veteran, or up to $9600 for hiring a disabled veteran.

"Career Crossroads can help a veteran hone his or her skills in transitioning to the civilian workforce. The tools and resources provide hope, encouragement and connections to our Veterans as they take the next step in their professional careers," says Ed Palekas, retired Army Colonel and Crossroads Career volunteer instructor for the Maximize Your Career course.

Veterans can access detailed information about the Workbook and other career resources available to them by visiting www.crossroadscareer.org/veterans. Employers can also visit www.crossroadscareer.org/veterans for detailed steps on how to hire a veteran or visit www.crossroadscareer.org/employers to post open positions.

About Crossroads Career Network
Crossroads Career Network is a national, non-profit Christian ministry of member churches dedicated to providing online career, ministry and employer resources through faith-based materials. Its current career groups and resources are sponsored by 100+ member churches in 20+ states throughout the country and internationally in South Africa. Crossroads Career Network churches are equipped to help people in their congregations and communities find jobs, careers and calling.

Visit Crossroads Career Network at www.crossroadscareer.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @MAXyourCAREER.