Veterans Outreach Program Taking Place in September

Stand Down 2011, a one-day outreach and support event for veterans who are homeless, unemployed or with medical concerns, will take place from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9 at the State Veterans Home, 287 West St., Rocky Hill.

Services offered include reemployment assistance, housing referrals, social service assistance, DMV services, VA benefit assistance, medical, dental and mental health screenings and free clothing, according to a press release from the state Department of Labor Communications Office.

Free transportation will be provided to attendees from pick-up locations in Bridgeport, Danbury, Hartford, Meriden, New Britain, New Haven, New London, Norwich, Stamford, Torrington and Waterbury.

Pick-up and drop-off locations will be posted on the Department of Labor’s Office for Veterans’ Workforce Development website or can be provided by calling the state Department of Veterans Affairs at 860-616-3801.

“Returning to work is a crucial step in getting our veterans back to civilian life and our goal is to reach out to all veterans, especially those who are experiencing difficult times mentally, physically or economically,” said Terry Brennan, director of the Office for Veterans Workforce Development.

According to State Labor Commissioner Glenn Marshall, the department’s veterans employment staff will assist with job searches, résumé development and review, giving advice and listening, to help veterans better their chances for employment.

“The Department of Labor is always looking for opportunities to meet directly with the people who need our services and, as with our annual Heroes4Hire veterans-only job and career fair, this is a perfect opportunity to do just that," said Marshall.

A record 1,300 veterans attended last year’s Stand Down, an annual event organized by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. More than 50 government agencies and private organizations are expected to participate this year.