Veterans Day carries powerful memories of noble service and courage. United States’ military history is deeply rooted in values centered around placing country before self to protect the safety and security of others. Some may never appreciate the depth of Veterans Day. Still, there is one way we can all feel more connected and united this year – through demonstrating our civilian responsibility to support our veterans whose days in uniform have ended.
Reaching beyond “Thank you for your service” – An example of our impact
Veterans Day carries powerful memories of noble service and courage. United States’ military history is deeply rooted in values centered around placing country before self to protect the safety and security of others. Some may never appreciate the depth of Veterans Day. Still, there is one way we can all feel more connected and united this year – through demonstrating our civilian responsibility to support our veterans whose days in uniform have ended.
Reaching beyond “Thank you for your service” – An example of our impact
Each veteran’s journey is unique, shaped by their personal experiences and circumstances. But reintegrating back into civilian life and the workforce can be challenging. Through collaboration and partnership with the Minority Professional Truckers Association (MTPA), the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ), and Task Force Movement, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services is creating the Driven By Equity (DbyE) initiative, a program and pathway to entrepreneurship that addresses barriers to entry that many veterans face breaking into the transportation sector. This program will provide women, minority- and veteran business owners training, mentorship and tools tailored to becoming successful independent trucking owner/operators. Ultimately, it will address the challenges that veterans face reintegrating back into civilian society.
“Skills developed while in the military, translate well into becoming a business owner.” Colonel (Ret.) Sam Whitehurst, Vice President of Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services
By leveraging their skills and unique strengths, the DbyE initiative will play a crucial role in driving veterans’ desire to innovate and excel. Building upon our experience and the experience of our partners in building comprehensive training programs, we are ensuring that new and existing drivers and employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to be successful entrepreneurs. Our goal is to create a program that includes mentorship, safety training, and ongoing education, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
This proactive approach not only honors their service but helps ensure veterans can successfully navigate the transition to civilian life, contributing to a stronger and more inclusive society for our veteran and military families.
“Trucking remains a critical driver for the U.S. economy, employing over 3.4 million truck drivers and contributing to a $725+ billion industry,” Teresa Watson, CEO of Minority Professional Truckers Association.
Entrepreneurship in the trucking industry can be a bridge to financial independence and wealth-building for minorities and underserved communities, including veterans. With the help of the 150 partners and experts serving on Task Force Movement, Dixon Center is using our influence, ideas, and actions to build the capacity of other organizations, maximizing their ability to integrate veterans and their families into their programs and activities. Our mission is to ensure veterans and military families can succeed where they live and that every organization, across all sectors of society, effectively integrates veterans and their families into their organization and programs.
“This opportunity is a better pathway for veterans and their families—it’s a generational transformation,” says Viv Harmon, Executive Director, Training and Development Institute, African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey
As we recognize the commitment of veterans and the legacy that maintains the benefits of peace, let us also take collective action toward the shared goal of quality of life. Join us in our commitment to improving the lives of veterans and their families today and every day.
Ways that you can Reach Beyond “Thank you for your Service:”
To learn more about the Driven by Equity initiative, please tune in to Episode 27 of the Service Before Self Podcast.
