Finding a job after military service is tough for many veterans. Red Racks Thrift Stores, operated by Disabled American Veterans, helps solve this problem by offering jobs, training, and support tailored to veterans’ needs. Here’s how they make a difference:
- Veteran-First Hiring: Red Racks prioritizes hiring veterans, recognizing the value of their military skills.
- Job Training: They offer hands-on training and clear paths for career growth, helping veterans transition into civilian roles.
- Mental Health Support: Proceeds from their thrift stores fund counseling, transportation, and wellness programs for veterans.
- Community Impact: Red Racks creates jobs, supports local economies, and promotes sustainability through thrift retail.
Problems Veterans Face Finding Jobs
The shift from military service to civilian employment is anything but smooth for many veterans. Despite bringing a wealth of skills and experience, they often encounter barriers that make it difficult to secure jobs that align with their abilities.
Converting Military Skills to Civilian Jobs
One of the biggest challenges veterans face is conveying their military experience in terms that civilian employers understand. Statistics reveal that fewer than half of veterans feel adequately prepared for civilian employment after leaving the military. This isn’t due to a lack of qualifications but rather a disconnect in communication that leaves both veterans and employers struggling to connect.
Military roles often involve highly specialized responsibilities that don’t have direct civilian counterparts. For instance, an Army logistics coordinator might oversee supply chains for thousands of personnel, but their resume might state “supply management,” failing to highlight their leadership and organizational skills. This communication gap creates frustration on both sides. Surprisingly, only 2% of HR professionals use military skills translation tools, even though 71% are open to exploring them.
“Although we know veterans leave military service with a host of essential workplace skills, from leadership and problem-solving to technical expertise, there is a persistent disconnect between veterans and potential employers that leads veterans to struggle with finding post-military careers that match their experience and abilities.” – Eric Eversole, president of Hiring Our Heroes
This disconnect often results in underemployment. Veterans are 15% more likely to experience underemployment compared to civilians, with nearly one-third feeling overqualified for their current roles. Many end up in jobs far below their skill level because employers fail to see the value behind military terminology on resumes.
Another significant barrier is licensing and certification requirements. A veteran who spent years maintaining complex aircraft systems may still need to start from scratch to earn civilian mechanic certifications. This process can be both time-consuming and costly, further delaying their career progression.
Beyond these logistical hurdles, mental health struggles and employer biases add to the challenges veterans face in the job market.
Mental Health and Work
Mental health challenges are a major obstacle for veterans transitioning into civilian jobs. Up to 20% of veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts are estimated to have PTSD, and the numbers are even higher for Vietnam veterans, at around 30%. Among the 4.3 million veterans receiving VA benefits for service-connected disabilities, 20% receive support specifically for PTSD.
Veterans with PTSD face significant employment difficulties. Studies show they are more than twice as likely to be unemployed compared to those without the condition. PTSD can disrupt daily functioning, making it hard to maintain consistent work schedules or meet job demands.
“A diagnosis of chronic war-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been linked consistently to poor employment outcomes.”
Unemployment often worsens mental health issues, creating a vicious cycle. Employment plays a crucial role in maintaining mental well-being for veterans, while joblessness can lead to “depression, self-pity, self-absorption, higher risk of substance abuse, and feelings of worthlessness”. Alarmingly, half of post-9/11 veterans experience a period of unemployment after discharge, and the average length of these periods continues to grow.
Adding to the difficulty, many veterans face workplace discrimination due to mental health misconceptions. Employers may exclude veterans from job opportunities or fail to provide reasonable accommodations.
Employer Bias and Misconceptions
Beyond skill translation and mental health challenges, employer biases form another significant barrier. While 76% of employers express a desire to hire more veterans, their actions often fail to reflect these intentions.
A major issue is the widespread lack of understanding about veterans’ experiences. 70% of U.S. adults admit they don’t fully grasp the challenges faced by service members. This lack of awareness fuels harmful stereotypes.
Misconceptions about mental health are particularly damaging. For example, 40% of Americans believe that at least half of all veterans suffer from PTSD or similar conditions. In reality, only 10-20% of veterans deal with PTSD, depending on the conflict. For instance, 11-20% of Post-9/11 veterans and about 12% of Gulf War veterans face PTSD-related challenges.
These exaggerated perceptions can make employers view veterans as liabilities. Some worry that veterans might struggle with aggression, lack critical thinking skills, or have trouble adjusting to civilian workplaces. Others dismiss military service as irrelevant work experience. Concerns about potential health issues and the cost of accommodations further deter employers from hiring veterans.
“I just want a job where I can contribute, add value and go home to my family unstressed every night.” – Retiring senior military officer
Such biases prevent employers from tapping into a workforce known for its leadership, technical expertise, and work ethic. Veterans often find themselves stuck in entry-level roles despite being overqualified, simply because employers fail to see their full potential.
How Red Racks Creates Jobs for Veterans
Red Racks, a 501(c) veteran-owned organization operated by Disabled American Veterans, is dedicated to creating meaningful job opportunities for veterans. With multiple locations, the organization offers a wide range of roles that tap into the unique skills veterans bring to the table. Their approach is built on three pillars: veteran-first hiring, specialized job training, and mentorship programs. These strategies reflect Red Racks’ commitment to supporting veterans both in and out of the workplace.
Veteran-First Hiring Policies
At Red Racks, hiring veterans isn’t just a goal – it’s a priority. Their veteran-first hiring policy ensures that former service members are given special consideration for job openings. The leadership team, many of whom are veterans themselves, recognizes the value of military experience and incorporates it into hiring decisions. Veterans can apply through various methods, including in-person, online, or by texting THRIFT to 22100.
Beyond employment, Red Racks also supports Disabled American Veterans of Missouri by providing funding, ensuring their mission extends beyond job creation to broader advocacy efforts for the veteran community.
Job Training and Skill Building
Transitioning from military service to civilian work can be challenging, but Red Racks bridges that gap through robust training programs. These include internal management training and clear advancement pathways. Veterans are given the chance to gain hands-on experience in retail and customer service, with many employees climbing the ranks from within the organization.
With multiple locations across Missouri, Red Racks offers a variety of opportunities for veterans to build their skills and grow their careers. As the company explains:
“We regularly promote team members from within the company and provide internal management training. And, because we have multiple locations, there are plenty of opportunities for development and career advancement.”
Mentorship and Peer Support
Red Racks goes beyond training by fostering a culture of mentorship. As a veteran-led organization, it provides a unique environment where veterans can support one another. New employees benefit from working alongside peers who share similar experiences, making the transition to civilian employment smoother.
Through voluntary mentoring relationships, veterans receive guidance on navigating workplace challenges and adapting to civilian roles. This peer-to-peer support not only enhances morale but also builds a sense of community, helping veterans unlock their potential while forming strong bonds with their colleagues.
Support Services for Veteran Workers
Red Racks knows that hiring veterans is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly make a difference, they go further by offering services tailored to the unique challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian workplaces. By creating a supportive environment, Red Racks helps veterans succeed both on the job and in their personal lives. Here’s a closer look at how they make this happen.
Mental Health and Wellness Support
The transition from military to civilian life can bring unseen struggles, especially when it comes to mental health. Red Racks prioritizes this need by channeling proceeds from their thrift stores into programs supporting veteran counseling. Funds are managed by the Disabled American Veterans Ernestine Schumann-Heinke Chapter 2, Inc., which allocates resources for transportation, medical care, counseling, and more. This effort ensures that veterans have access to essential wellness services.
Transportation Assistance
For veterans, particularly those in rural Missouri, transportation can be a major barrier to steady employment. Red Racks addresses this issue through its partnership with the Disabled American Veterans network. This collaboration provides over 700,000 rides annually, helping veterans reach critical services like medical appointments and job opportunities. These efforts ensure that transportation challenges don’t stand in the way of their success.
Opportunities for Career Growth
Red Racks is committed to more than just providing jobs – they’re focused on building careers. Their internal advancement system offers veterans a clear and achievable path from entry-level roles to management positions. This structured approach highlights Red Racks’ dedication to fostering long-term growth and leadership opportunities for veterans, ensuring their professional success continues to build over time.
Community Impact of Red Racks’ Veteran Programs
Red Racks’ veteran programs bring meaningful change to Missouri communities, touching on economic growth, environmental responsibility, and ongoing community development.
Economic Benefits for Veterans and Communities
When veterans join the workforce at Red Racks, the ripple effects are felt throughout Missouri. As a veteran-owned organization, Red Racks creates job opportunities that directly benefit veteran households, fostering financial security for families. With locations across both urban and rural areas in Missouri, the economic advantages are far-reaching.
Stable employment with Red Racks empowers veterans and their families to actively engage in their local economies. Reliable income leads to spending at local businesses, homeownership, and investments in education – all of which fuel a cycle of economic growth.
Beyond employment, Red Racks offers affordable, quality goods, providing essential items at prices that help families save. Thrift store shoppers, for instance, save nearly $1,800 annually by choosing secondhand. These savings free up household budgets for other priorities, further strengthening the community’s economic fabric. And through its recycling efforts, Red Racks extends its impact beyond finances, promoting sustainability.
Recycling and Community Benefits Through Thrift Retail
Red Racks’ thrift store model showcases how veteran employment can align with environmentally conscious practices. All items sold at Red Racks are donated by residents, creating a circular economy that reduces waste while supporting veteran programs. In 2015 alone, Red Racks Thrift Stores recycled over 3.2 million pounds of materials.
The global fashion industry contributes up to 10% of carbon dioxide emissions and 20% of wastewater production. By promoting secondhand shopping, Red Racks helps curb the demand for fast fashion, lowering its environmental impact. This shift is gaining traction, with 62% of Gen-Z and millennials favoring secondhand shopping over buying new.
“Break the fast fashion cycle by adopting a ‘Buy Second, Buy Conscience’ mindset, where every thrifted find counts as a vote for sustainability, reducing carbon emissions, and minimizing textile waste, ultimately shaping a more eco-friendly fashion industry.”
Through these efforts, Red Racks not only reduce landfill waste but also support a culture of sustainability that benefits both people and the planet.
Long-Term Support for Veterans
Red Racks goes beyond immediate benefits, providing enduring support that strengthens communities and improves veteran lives over time. Since its founding in 1958, the organization has expanded to include 13 locations across Missouri, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to veterans.
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) plays a crucial role in this mission by offering lifetime support to veterans, including medical care, job training, and housing assistance. These services help veterans transition into civilian life, fostering stability and long-term contributions to their communities. Currently, DAV supports 10,000 to 20,000 veterans in Missouri alone.
Chandra Regan, Business Operations Manager, highlights the importance of this forward-thinking approach:
“Those people that are currently enlisted, this is their future, so we want to build upon that foundation”.
The impact of these programs is deeply personal for many veterans. Gerald Caldwell, who benefited from DAV assistance, shared:
“They were able to give me medication, give me camaraderieship, help me through those times for me and my family”.
Veteran Service Officer Bill Rieger underscores the ongoing need for such efforts:
“Veteran needs are going to be continuous from now until ever. A community can always do more”.
Through its veteran programs and community initiatives, Red Racks continues to build a legacy of support and resilience that benefits individuals and communities alike.
Red Racks’ Commitment to Veteran Success
Red Racks Thrift Stores stands out as a leader in tackling the employment challenges faced by veterans. As a 501(c) organization operated by Disabled American Veterans, Red Racks directly addresses the troubling statistics: nearly 40% of veterans lack full-time employment, and 33% are underemployed [43, 44].
But Red Racks doesn’t stop at just creating jobs. The organization offers a well-rounded support system designed to combat the hurdles veterans face, including mental health struggles, a barrier cited by nearly one in four veterans. Employees benefit from group medical, dental, vision, and short-term disability insurance, all within a workplace culture deeply rooted in shared veteran experiences. These efforts help bridge the gap between employment and the mental health challenges veterans often encounter.
Red Racks also prioritizes growth opportunities through internal management training and a promotion-from-within approach. This is particularly meaningful given that 38 of the top 50 industries hire veterans at disproportionately lower rates. With multiple locations across Missouri, Red Racks provides not only jobs but also pathways for career advancement. These initiatives reflect the organization’s core values, as expressed by its leadership:
“What we do, how we do it, and the people who we do it with is what matters.” – Red Racks Thrift Stores
This philosophy fuels Red Racks’ dual mission: empowering veterans and enriching Missouri communities. Every purchase at their thrift stores supports Disabled American Veterans programs, funding essential services like transportation, medical care, and counseling. It’s a model that ensures every dollar spent makes a meaningful impact.
For the two-thirds of wounded veterans facing financial struggles – many carrying debts of $20,000 or more – the competitive pay and benefits offered by Red Racks provide a crucial lifeline. These combined efforts underscore the organization’s dedication to helping veterans rebuild their lives and thrive in their post-military journeys.
FAQs
How does Red Racks help veterans transition their military skills into civilian careers?
Red Racks Thrift Stores play a key role in helping veterans transition their military skills into successful civilian careers. They offer specialized job training programs that teach veterans how to highlight their unique experiences and strengths in ways that appeal to civilian employers.
Beyond training, Red Racks provides direct employment opportunities within their stores. These roles give veterans practical experience while honing transferable skills such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. By emphasizing career growth and development, Red Racks equips veterans with the tools and support they need to thrive in the civilian job market.
How does Red Racks support veterans’ mental health and wellness?
Red Racks Thrift Stores play a vital role in supporting veterans by funding critical services like healthcare, transportation, and mental health programs. The proceeds from every purchase go directly to Disabled American Veterans, helping tackle the challenges many veterans encounter after their service.
When you shop or donate at Red Racks, you’re directly contributing to improving the lives of veterans and their families, creating a lasting impact in their journey toward wellness and stability.
How does shopping at Red Racks Thrift Stores help veterans and the environment?
Shopping at Red Racks Thrift Stores does more than just offer great finds – it directly helps veterans by funding essential programs and creating job opportunities with benefits and room to grow. Every purchase contributes to providing healthcare, housing assistance, and other critical services to veterans in need.
But that’s not all. Red Racks also takes steps to reduce waste by recycling unsold items, making it a win for the planet, too. Shopping secondhand here helps cut down on the demand for new production, conserving resources and reducing pollution. So, every trip to Red Racks means you’re supporting veterans while also making an eco-friendly choice.
