By Dawn Krebs
dkrebs@hometownnewsol.com
ST. LUCIE COUNTY - Workforce Solutions set a goal 100 days ago to have 100 veterans hired by Nov. 11, Veteran's Day.
As of Oct. 31, the nonprofit group had more than doubled its original goal, and 234 veterans on the Treasure Coast are now gainfully employed thanks to their efforts. The group reached the half-way point with 50 veterans hired in just 40 days.
"We are more than excited about our results," said Odaly Victorio, communication coordinator for Workforce Solutions. "We hit the original goal of hiring 100 veterans on Sept. 14."
The group program started on Aug. 3 and targeted the approximate 5,100 unemployed veterans in the area.
In St. Lucie County, several companies stepped up to hire veterans, including Florida Power and Light, the St. Lucie County School Board, Aegis, Florida Atlantic University and PSL Auto Parts.
"It was very steady," she said. "We have been averaging about two new hires a day."
A part of the the Workforce Solutions webpage lists the more than 100 employers who hired veterans.
"We thought it was going to be difficult," Ms. Victorio said. "We have been very pleased with how it's worked out."
But hiring veterans doesn't have to stop on Veteran's Day. Ms. Victorio said employers are still looking for help, even during holiday season.
"Veterans are great new employees," she said. "They learn quickly and can work well in a team."
In addition, there are tax credits of up to $9,600 currently available for employers who hire veterans.
"Come into our location in St. Lucie West for more information," said Ms. Victorio. "There are still jobs out there."
The St. Lucie Workforce Solutions office is located at 584 N.W. University Blvd. in St. Lucie West.
For more information, visit the office, call (866) 482-4473 or go to the website at www.yourworkforcesolutions.com.