A former resident of our shelter was offered employment by VSO in NY. I checked out the group and did not recommend he move to NY and participate in their OJT Program. I checked them out on line and found they had mixed reviews. They raised funds and applied a percentage to their "OJT" Program which had vetworking as fundraisers in a "Sales Training Program". I felt this was a way for them to just raise money. He did not take my advice and left to go live in the VSO housing Center and work for them against our advice.
This was about 2 months ago. He recently came back to visit and was a new person. He told us he had saved enough to get his own place. His self esteem was back and was obtaining training from VSO for several types of work. He was going to NA and addressing his substance abuse issues and was proud to be helping other vets.
I had prior doubts about VSO when he first left the shelter but today I am applying to them for three more of our homeless vets. I read the reports of how much they collected and gave to vet programs. I now understand that VSO gives these men with no light at the end of the tunnel a new vision and hope.
Today, when I see a person in a raising money on the street, I stop, ask him his story. I then decide if I should donate. I no longer rely on the accounts of others, but use my own judgement. I recommend you do the same.
JR
Housing Coordinator
CARE HELPS SOBER HOUSE
Saturday, December 26, 2009
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