By Anjeline Santos, Job Developer, WestCare Pacific Islands (WPI)
Featured Photo Caption: WPI staff, community partners, and volunteers at the “Salute the Troops Wave” at the Guam ITC Intersection on November 8, 2024
WestCare Pacific Islands’ (WPI) Path to Freedom (PTF) Program inspires hope and provides opportunities to enhance each Veteran’s ability to achieve autonomy. PTF currently assists Veterans in building their self-sufficiency, gaining meaningful employment, and navigating their journey to rediscovering their place in the community.
PTF was able to gather with their community partners on various occasions throughout the month of November to Remember, Honor, and Support all Veterans who have selflessly served in order to protect our nation’s freedom. These events aimed to commemorate invaluable sacrifices and extend support to those still navigating life beyond service.
We Remember– WestCare Pacific Islands hosted the “Salute the Troops Wave,” bringing the community together to honor Veterans and their families. This event served as a heartfelt reminder of the many sacrifices made by service members, including missing important familial milestones in order to ensure the safety and freedom of others.
We Honor– In partnership with the American Red Cross Guam, WPI participated in “Operation: Veteran Beautification Cleanup,” in which WPI staff and community volunteers worked together to clean and restore the final resting places of Veterans and their families, paying tribute to their service with dignity and care.
We Support– PTF recognizes the community’s commitment to supporting Veterans’ reintegration into civilian life. This quarter, PTF was able to utilize their Wage Subsidy Program to provide on-the-job training and assist 19 Veterans in connecting to meaningful employment opportunities with local organizations. Each quarter, PTF also recognizes a “Gold Star” Community Partner that exemplifies dedication to helping Veterans refine their skills and re-enter the local workforce. PTF looks forward to increasing their community impact, ultimately leading to more Veterans finding their own Path to Freedom. Together, WPI and PTF remember Veterans’ sacrifices, honor their service, and support their futures. PTF would like to extend a warm “Thank You” to all who contributed to making these initiatives a success!
Photo Caption: WPI staff and community volunteers supporting “Operation: Veteran Beautification Cleanup” at the Guam Veteran’s Cemetery on November 9, 2024
Photo Caption: Photo 3: WPI PTF staff with their November “Gold Star” community partner, Tohge, Inc. Guam
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