Guest post: By Brittany Fisher, from FinanciallyWell.Info

If you are thinking about a run for office, you are probably someone who cares deeply about civic issues, enjoys interacting with a variety of people, and has an interest in helping your community. Those are all great skills for a future politician. However, as a veteran with a disability, you have additional insight into the ways the city handles disability-related needs, which could be an asset for guiding decision-making.

During the early part of your path toward politics, consider the values that influence your life and create strategies to communicate those values to constituents. The Ellis County Det. 1452, Marine Corps League shares some additional tips to help you get your voice heard!

Identifying Your Political Values

It can be difficult to summarize one’s values as they are usually diverse and multi-layered. Think specifically of what you value about your town, city, or state. What aspects do you wish to protect? Through your lens as a person with a disability, identify some of the areas of need that would make things more amenable to all citizens, including those with varying disabilities.

How will you put your values into action? Often, citizens become wary of political promises, but if you are speaking from your core value system and offer your ideas in the form of action, people may be less skeptical of your follow-through. Try to be as transparent as possible in your approach to political office, and make sure your points are concise and simple. A campaign manager and public relations professional are valuable assets throughout the journey—their assistance can deeply impact your success.

Building Your Team

Whether you identify as a Democrat, Republican, or Independent, having a skilled campaign manager is crucial for success. Numero explains that campaign managers can organize your time, help you gain supporters for your campaign, rally volunteers to assist with the placement of posters, track donations and make a zillion other necessary tasks happen. Trying to run for office without a campaign manager would put you behind the curve since it would require you to balance all these tasks simultaneously.

Washington Women in Public Relations points out that public relations is another crucial aspect of your political journey. Your campaign manager can assist with some aspects of public relations, but having a dedicated PR specialist will ensure that you are on track with your communications with constituents. An experienced PR manager can assist you with making wise decisions about speaking engagements. They can also help structure your speeches in a way that demonstrates your values and plans to help your future constituents.

Hiring a campaign manager and public relations assistant with an understanding of disability needs and rights will be helpful as you advocate for your city. When you interview prospective team members, be sure to ask about their experience and understanding to ensure that they can adequately support your efforts.

Paying Your Team

Payroll services can be a valuable asset for any political campaign, large or small. By outsourcing tasks for managing your payroll, campaigns can free up staff time to focus on more important tasks, such as voter outreach and fundraising. In addition, using a payroll service can help to ensure that all campaign workers are paid accurately and on time. Furthermore, many payroll services offer a variety of additional features, such as direct deposit and online pay stubs, that can make life easier for both campaigns and employees.

Preparing for Your Political Run

Prior to throwing your proverbial hat into the ring, take some time to prepare yourself emotionally. Political campaigns are equal parts exhilaration, fatigue, and sheer determination. You will spend a lot of time defending your position on a range of topics and many hours simply talking to constituents, listening to concerns, and trying to determine how your foray into politics can assist the citizens of your district.

You’ll need to prepare campaign photos. These photos will be helpful for all promotional material related to your campaign and candidacy. Depending on the office you’re running for, you may rely on the skills and technology available to you and your staff. It is wise, however, to use professional photography services if you can.

Campaigning

Getting word out about your intent to run for office is important at this stage. Much like marketing and networking in business, word of mouth goes a long way when it comes to messaging and building excitement. Work with your inner circles first, then branch out to distant friends and past colleagues you’ve not talked to in a while. Posting your message on social media is the next logical step, as you’ll be able to reach scores of people in the community and beyond. And this is a task you can do yourself. For example, you can create a Facebook ad using free tools on the internet. Simply go online and use editable templates to customize your ad with your logo, photos, and unique message, then, in no time, you’ll be able to upload it to the popular platform.

It never hurts to strike up a conversation with new people. Get as many people as you can in your camp, as this will pay off in not just influencing the citizenry but garnering financial support, too.

You can make a difference in the way your constituents live and work. As a veteran with a disability, your input is a valuable voice to make positive changes that could improve the lives of all citizens. It is vital to have representation that understands the needs of many—perhaps you are that person.

The Ellis County Det. 1452, Marine Corps League offers several programs and services that in one way or another benefit all members, Veterans that are not members, and community members and organizations. Contact us today to learn more! 469.894.2023

Photo via Pixabay

Guest Post: Beverly Nelson from StandUpforCaregivers.org 

Starting a business can be very exciting, but it usually comes with a few challenges along the way. People who previously served in the military encounter some unique challenges when starting a business, but there is help for these people as well. According to experts, veterans sometimes struggle with finding a way to thrive back in the civilian world, partially due to changes in routine and structure. These are some tips from Ellis County Detachment 1452 especially for veterans who would like to start a new business.

Businesses for New Entrepreneurs 

The type of business that you start largely depends on your interests and abilities, as well as how much money you have to invest in a new company. Many new entrepreneurs do not have much capitalto start with, so it is recommended that they begin by establishing businesses that do not require large investments in equipment or employees, such as:

•          Pet sitting, pet grooming, or dog walking

•          Selling handmade arts and crafts

•          Planning or managing events 

•          Fixing broken appliances in homes

Many skills that are acquired while in the military, such as communication and discipline, can be transferred to business ownership and running a successful company. Once you get your new business up and running, you will hopefully begin to make a profit. You can later use these funds to expand your current business or start a new one if you wish. 

Starting a Business

There are many steps that need to be taken when developing a new corporation. One of these steps is to create a plan for the company. A well thought out business plan includes elements such as:

•          Specific details about the company

•          How to position yourself in the market

•          Ways to advertise to potential customers 

•          A policy for hiring new employees

•          A system to deal with finances and pay for essentials

•          What you hope to accomplish through the company

Without a solid plan, you have no direction in which to take your new venture. Also, consider how your business will be structured before diving into anything. 

Elements of a Successful Business 

One basic element of running a company is researching your market. This helps you to be aware of who is purchasing your products or services so that you can tailor those things to the wants and needs of your customers. A couple of ways to do market research include distributing surveys and interviewing customers. 

All new businesses need funding as well. Fortunately, there are services out there that are specifically meant for veteran entrepreneurs. In the United States, the Small Business Administration offers funding options and training resources geared specifically to veterans of the armed services. 

Key Support Systems

It is essential that you have the proper technology in order to run your new business. One such technology is an invoice system to make it easier for customers to make payments. An invoice maker, for instance, will allow veteran business owners to design a customer invoice by adding the company's logo and using the text and colors of their choosing. 

Establishing and owning a new business can be fulfilling for those who have recently returned from serving in the military. Before starting your journey, do some research on the resources that are available to veterans who wish to start a business. 

At Ellis County Detachment 1452, our mission is to lend support and partner with Veterans, Veteran organizations, and community members and organizations through volunteerism, financial support, and grants to  empower Veterans to conquer the challenges they face in an ever-changing world and increase community awareness. We’d love to hear from you!

 Image via Pexels

Image via Pexels

This is a Guest Post from Erica Francis from ReadyJob.Org. This article is VERY informing and we are excited to post her work on our blog for all of our readers to enjoy. We hope that you will take advantage of any of the below opportunities.

When 2018 ended, the veteran population in the U.S. numbered an estimated 18 million. Those leaving the military for civilian life may face challenges, including difficulty reentering the workforce.

Starting a small business offers you flexibility with fewer constraints and educational requirements. As an aspiring entrepreneur, you should begin your journey with these few crucial steps.

1. Identify the Area You Want to Enter

Your startup should involve something you are interested in (research shows that passion is a key contributor to success), but that can't be the only criteria you assess. You need to have the skills and knowledge to perform the services or produce the products you wish to offer. If you already have an idea in mind, you also need to research its viability. Look at the competition and the existing market. Ask established businesspeople, friends, and relatives for opinions and advice. Ask, "Is my idea a good one?" and answer objectively. 

If you are unsure of anything besides the fact that you want to start a business, there are many possibilities out there. Examples of simple startups that suit beginners include drop shipping, food trucks, pet sitting, virtual education (tutoring, teaching, and course creation), life coaching, and housekeeping.

If you enjoy creative endeavors, you could start your own business selling crafts, such as jewelry, knit or crochet plushes, greeting cards, custom art, embroidered items, or other artistic products or offer art lessons. Designing T-shirts, mugs, stickers, stationery, and other specialized merchandise is another option. 

Once you have identified what your business will do, write it down. Specify your goals and what your enterprise will stand for and incorporate them into a mission statement that will represent the values you want your eventual clients and customers to associate with your brand. 

2. Develop a Plan

One of the most vital preliminary steps when starting a business is the creation of a business plan. This should outline subjects like your objectives, a timeline with goalposts, products and services, marketing plan, financial plan, and key personnel. There are also free online resources you can use to help get set up. For example, you can create business cards with an online business card maker. Use this tool to add your logo, copy, images, and colors to a predesigned template.

3. Choose a Business Structure

There are four basic structures, sole proprietorship, limited liability company, corporation, and partnership. The first is easy to set up, but it does not separate your business from your personal affairs, meaning you can be held personally liable for your business's obligations, including debt. A partnership is what it sounds like, a structure for two or more people to go into business with each other. Corporations offer the best protection from personal liability, but they also come with a considerably higher cost ceiling and more stringent requirements. 

An LLC shields you from most personal liability and offers the advantages of both a partnership and a corporation. It also comes with tax benefits, greater flexibility, and less paperwork. Different states have different regulations about forming LLCs and other business structures, so look into your area's laws first.  

4. Research Available Resources

As you search for funding, take advantage of resources offered by the government and other entities. Besides traditional loans, there are grants and loans specifically for veterans starting businesses. There are also programs to help you get started. Search online, visit your local Veterans Affairs office or ask local veterans groups like Ellis County Det. 1452to learn about resources.

Starting your path as an entrepreneur with a clear idea of what to do and the resources out there for veterans can help you find success and satisfaction with your new business.

Guest Post by: Beverly Nelson

As our loved ones grow older it’s normal to feel concerned for their wellbeing, especially when they’re not located nearby. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can help seniors to navigate the daily challenges of life without always being there in person - here are a couple to consider.

Senior Services

The last decade has given rise to a variety of senior services that can help those in need to live more comfortably. Many of these come at no extra cost and can be arranged remotely.

●     The Division of Aging and Adult Services can provide nutrition-congregate and home-delivered meals free of charge.

●     There are a number of senior home repair assistance programs provided by the local and federal governments.

●     Lower-income seniors may have access to free dental care on behalf of the Donated Dental Services (DDS).

●     Or you could apply for an at-home senior care service, who can help with everything from company to financial advice.

●     Medicare Part B covers 80 percent of the cost of visiting mental health professionals.

Online Communication

For most seniors, loneliness ranks among their primary concerns. Thankfully, technology has helped alleviate this issue and it’s often possible to stay in touch without having to travel.

●     Video calling software has become a popular and easy way to connect with loved ones from afar. Many of these can be operated on either computer or mobile.

●     Traditional games such as Scrabble or chess can now be played via mobile online with multiple players.

●     For many seniors, social media channels are a great way to reconnect with old friends or stay in touch with family.

Day-To-Day Living

When your mobility is affected and you don’t have the energy to carry out daily chores on your own, a little extra help can go a long way.

●     If a senior can’t get out into the yard to keep their lawn tidy, it’s worth looking into local lawn care providers.

●     Takeaway service apps like Uber Eats can be used to deliver weekly groceries.

●     Accessibility features such as grab handles or stairlifts can improve a senior’s day-to-day independence.

●     If a senior needs to find more accessible accommodations, you can help them sell their current home and use the proceeds to pay for a senior-friendly home or assisted living.

Navigating the challenges of daily life as a senior can feel daunting, but when you have help (even from afar) every day feels a little more manageable.

 

Ellis County Det. 1452 is committed to supporting veterans and helping them overcome challenges through volunteering, financial assistance, and grants. Join us and become part of the long-term solution.

Image by Pexels

Image via Pexels

Guest Post Article by Kelli Brewer. Kelli, from the Deploy Care website, returns with another article that benefits the veteran community. Here is her article, and we thank her for her continued contributions!

Perhaps you settled down in another country after completing your military service. Or maybe your experiences in the military have inspired your children to pursue the same path, and now, you’re spending the holidays in different countries.

For veterans and their families, spending the holiday season apart can be tough. Joining an organization like The Ellis County Detachment 1452 can help you meet people who understand what you’re going through! In the meantime, here are a few tips on connecting with your family during the holidays while enjoying time with your local community.

Send Cash Gifts

Sometimes, cash is the best holiday gift. Instead of trying to guess what your family wants, your relatives can use the money to purchase whatever they need! But when sending money to relatives abroad, you may not want to use a typical payment platform or rely on an international wire transfer, as these options can get quite expensive. A reputable, budget-friendly service like Remitly could be a better choice. For instance, if you’re sending money to the Philippines, an instant transfer will only run you $3.99, and you won’t have any fees for three- to five-day transfers.

Create Care Packages

The holidays are a time for gift-giving, so consider putting together a special care package for your loved ones. If you’re choosing gifts for a deployed family member, Hero Care Packages recommends including hand warmers, air fresheners, DVDs of their favorite TV shows, snacks, and photographs from home. Before sending your package, it’s important to choose an affordable courier service that ships to the country where your loved ones live. For example, you can use a service like NEX to ship packages from the US to Japan.

If you send your loved ones a care package, you might want to schedule a video chat so that you can see their joy when they open it! Make sure that you and your loved one have access to WiFi with a strong signal, and choose a reliable video call service like Zoom. If you’ll be chatting with senior loved ones, be patient and offer helpful pointers as they set up the program.

Volunteer

When you miss your family, focusing on giving back to the place you live now can help boost your mood. Consider volunteering with a charitable organization over the holidays. If you’re not sure where to start, Nation Swell recommends donating used coats to clothing drives, helping out an animal shelter, or simply asking your local friends if they know of any reputable organizations that they would recommend volunteering with.

Attend Local Events

Perhaps you wish that you could get together with your family for your traditional holiday gatherings. But if this isn’t possible, you could attend some fun local events instead! There might be a holiday festival or parade that you can check out - feel free to ask your local friends to join you.

Plan Future Trips

If you and your loved ones aren’t able to see each other in person this holiday season, you can ease the pain of separation by planning for a future trip. Maybe you could travel to visit your family, or they could come to see you. It never hurts to start researching flight prices - you could cover the cost as a gift to your relatives!

If you’re a veteran from a military family, you and your loved ones might be separated by borders this holiday season. But by connecting with your own community while making time to show your family your appreciation, you can make the best of it. With these tips, you’ll have a memorable holiday season!

Want to get involved with a veterans organization? The Ellis County Detachment 1452 supports those who served! Get in touch through the contact form on our website to learn more.

Guest Post by Brittany Fisher

Brittany's Bio: Brittany Fisher has spent more than 20 years as a CPA. She runs her own site, Financiallywell.info where she shares her knowledge about taxes, personal finance and general financial literacy hoping to help anyone who may benefit from it. 

At The Ellis County Det. 1452, we know that veterans and military families face several obstacles as they navigate this unpredictable world. Thankfully, community members provide invaluable support to their veteran neighbors. Looking to get involved? There are many different ways to use your skills to help a local veteran in your area. Whether you’re a tech-savvy entrepreneur or a financial guru, your support will be well received by people who need assistance. Here’s how you can lend a hand!

Educational Guidance

Many veterans struggle to find work when they leave the military. Going back to school can open the door to many job opportunities, but veterans often don’t know where to start, which programs to choose, or how to fund their education. You can help by providing information about VA education and training benefits. These benefits can help service members and qualifying family members pay for college, find the right school, and more.

Enrolling in a master’s degree program might be a great idea for a veteran looking to advance their career. Through online advanced degree programs from schools like the University of Phoenix, veterans can continue working full-time while still earning an education. These online programs cover various industries, from business to psychology, so there’s something for everyone.

Financial Advice

Besides helping veterans determine their options for funding their education, you can offer other forms of financial assistance. For example, if you’re good with money management, you can help local seniors establish a budget and start an emergency savings plan. You can also help them access financial assistance programs provided by the government and private organizations.

Home Buying Assistance

Buying a home is a big step for veterans who may have spent the past few years traveling from place to place. Fortunately for veterans, there are some benefits involved in home buying that can make homeownership more attainable. Help a local veteran estimate their home buying power, evaluate the affordability of different neighborhoods, and navigate their mortgage options—including VA loans.

Help Navigating Medical Care

Medical care is one big area where many veterans could use a hand. Help veterans understand their eligibility for different health care programs, including treatment for things like blindness rehabilitation, post-traumatic stress disorder, radiation exposure, and traumatic brain injury. Many veterans can also benefit from mental health care but don’t know how to access it. There are many free mental health services and resources out there for veterans, service members, and their families if you know where to look!

Business Mentoring

Veterans make top-notch business owners. Thanks to their drive, dedication, and self-discipline, veterans have what it takes to bring a business idea to life and see it through to success. However, many veterans don’t know about the numerous business resources available to them. Government-provided business programs can help veterans learn the ropes of running a business and access the funding they need. NerdWallet suggests programs such as Boots to Business, Patriot Boot Camp, and V-WISE that offer valuable business training to veterans who want to become entrepreneurs.

If you run a business in the local community, consider supporting service members by offering special discounts to veterans and military family members. Offering military discounts is a great way to boost your reputation, build customer loyalty, and help veterans who may be living on fixed income access the products and services they need. You could even go a step further and pass down your business skills by mentoring a prospective veteran entrepreneur!

Despite everything veterans have done for our country, they still have to work hard to make it in our society. Accessing health care, mental care services, financial assistance, career training, and business mentoring can be tough when you don’t know where to look. Help a veteran or military family member navigate their options and find the path that’s right for them!

The Ellis County Det. 1452 supports veterans through partnerships with community members and veteran organizations. Want to get involved? Consider making a donation or becoming a volunteer! Call to learn more. 360-808-0604

Photo via Pexels

Guest Post by Brittany Fisher

Brittany's Bio: Brittany Fisher has spent more than 20 years as a CPA. She runs her own site, Financiallywell.info where she shares her knowledge about taxes, personal finance and general financial literacy hoping to help anyone who may benefit from it.

Need more insights and tips to better ease into civilian life, like the following article? See more on the Marine Corps League of Ellis County blog.

Buying a home is a major decision, so it’s important to get the details right in the beginning to ensure a smooth process that you’re satisfied with. For veterans, the process is slightly different simply due to the types of home loans available, and there are some benefits involved that might make your decision easier. Look for resources that will help you find a supportive community; the Marine Corps League of Ellis County is a great place to start. This step-by-step guide will help you through the process of finding the perfect home and making it your own.

Take a hard look at your finances

Before you begin looking for the right home, it’s crucial to get your finances in order. Take a look at your expenses and income to determine a budget, and make a spreadsheet that lays out your monthly costs. If you have a lot of credit card expenses or other debt, pay it down now and get your credit score in good shape. Ideally, you’ll want a score of between 580 and 620 to ensure you get a great loan rate. VA loans typically either don’t require a down payment or they require a small amount down, but if you want to get ahead, you might consider putting down a lump sum up front.

Find the perfect loan for your needs

Buying a home comes with a lot to think about, and finding the right loan is one of the most important details. While most VA loans don’t require a down payment, some lenders may require one depending on your credit score and other factors, so make sure you understand the terms of the loan completely. Read up on the benefits that come with a VA loan, including fewer closing costs, low interest rates, and no required private mortgage insurance. To give yourself peace of mind, get pre-approved for the loan.

Look for your dream home

Once you have the loan paperwork started, you’ll know how much you can afford to spend. This is crucial when searching for the perfect home. Think about the best time of year to do your search; in many areas of the country, spring is ideal because there are so many options to choose from. However, this also means you’ll have more competition. Winter is a slow season for real estate, and prices trend higher in the summer.

You’ll also need to consider your must-haves in a home and neighborhood, as well as the things you absolutely don’t want. Check out school districts, crime rates, and proximity to your favorite stores and restaurants as well.

Make the closing process painless

Closing on a home is often the most stressful part of the process because it requires a lot of details to come together. Take some of the stress out of closing by making sure you do a final walk-through inspection. On closing day, ensure that everyone whose name is on the mortgage has identification and any other necessary paperwork. Make sure you understand ahead of time whether you need to bring the remainder of the down payment or funds for closing costs, and whether you’ll be getting the keys at that time.

You might also want to consider hiring a locksmith to rekey the locks of your new home for your peace of mind. Check out reviews online before you settle on a service, and make sure they’re bonded and insured. A reputable locksmith near you will typically offer a warranty, as well. Be prepared for an average cost of $50–$150.

Buying a home is a huge milestone, so try to celebrate the moment rather than feeling stressed. Look at it as an investment rather than a debt, and seek out resources and support from veteran’s services that will help you understand the process.

Photo via Pexels

Guest Post by: Mary Shannon (from SeniorsMeet.org)

Putting yourself in a stable financial position won’t happen overnight. It takes planning, strategy, and most of all, consistency - doing the same things month after month so you eventually start seeing a difference in your finances. It’s hard work, but it’s well worth the effort to be rewarded with a bigger bank account and less money-related stress.

Check out the following tips from Ellis County Det 1452, Marine Corps League to help you get ahead.

Build a budget

The first step is to build a budget by determining exactly how much your household earns in a month and how much you can afford for all of your different expenses. Be sure to include large expenditures, including your rent and grocery bills, as well as seemingly-small expenses that tend to eat up more of your funds than you realize, such as entertainment.

6 Reasons Why You Need a Budget

How to Create a Budget in 5 Steps

Prioritize your savings

Most financial planning experts agree that saving is an important part of achieving financial wellness, but surprisingly few Americans save enough money to pay for unforeseen events or even expenses they know are coming. Even if you can’t afford to set much aside, be sure to work on building some sort of savings. You can increase or decrease this amount as circumstances allow, but you should always be funneling something into this account.

35 Simple Ways to Save Money Every Month

7 Savings Goals Totally Worth All Your Time And Money

9 Reasons You Need an Emergency Fund

Grow Your Wealth Through Home Buying

Owning a home is the cornerstone of the American dream. And these days, it’s possible to buy your first home even with minimal credit history or a down payment. What’s important is to make the right type of purchase, and to ensure it’s something you can afford.

Homeownership Is a Key to Building Wealth

How Much House Can I Afford

How to Get a Mortgage: 7 Steps to Success

What Is a VA Home Loan

Don’t put off saving for retirement

Ideally, it’s best to start saving for their retirement in your mid-twenties, but it’s another financial matter that’s easier said than done. The good news is that even if you don’t have an employee-sponsored retirement plan, there are options for putting funds aside that you can use later in life.

The Best Retirement Savings Plans for Freelancers

How Much Should I Contribute to My 401(k)

Budgeting, saving and thoughtful money management are the pillars of a solid financial future. If you’ve been putting off making sure you’re fiscally prepared for the present and future, there’s no time like the present to get started.

Courtesy of Pixabay.com.

Image via Pexels

Guest Post Article by: Ed Carter (Ablefutures.org) 

Ed Carter has worked with clients of all ages, backgrounds and incomes. About 10 years into his career, he saw a need for financial planners who specialize in helping individuals and families living with disabilities. Below is his guest post article:

The U.S. needs more teachers — in 2018, CNN notes American classrooms were short a whopping 112,000 educators, and that number is only expected to grow as fewer college graduates pursue a career in education. While not traditionally a post-service career, military veterans are uniquely positioned to fill the teacher shortage and bring new perspectives and valuable experience to the classroom. If you’re in search of a fulfilling career after military separation, The Ellis County Det. 1452 presents the following guide to  what you need to know

The realities of the U.S. teacher shortage

The effects of the U.S. teacher shortage go beyond overcrowded classrooms. School districts are hiring employees unqualified for the jobs they hold, leading to declining educational quality for the nation’s youth, and some positions are even being left vacant. These effects are especially hard in high-poverty rural and urban areas, where it’s challenging for school districts to attract and retain qualified teachers.

 

The effects of poor educational quality persist long after students have left the classroom. As high school students graduate out of disrupted and understaffed classrooms, they enter post-secondary education unprepared for the academic rigor of university lecture halls. As Rochester Business Journal explains, this can ultimately lead to poverty as students become adults who lack the tools for a prosperous career.

Veterans: An answer to the educator shortage?

As a military veteran, you have a strong sense of service. Why not channel your desire to serve in a teaching career? U.S. veterans have a number of valuable skills to bring to the classroom, such as:

●     Advanced leadership and teamwork.

●     Experience working with diverse populations.

●     Global perspective.

●     Experience with administration and policy.

●     Patience and resilience.

Pursuing a career in higher education

Education is a worthwhile career path for veterans, but it’s not one you can jump into right out of the military. Teachers require a bachelor’s degree as well as completion of a teacher preparation program before they can become licensed to work in K-12 public schools. Fortunately, there are many online programs designed to help you prepare for your teaching certification, which has different requirements based on where you reside.

Don’t let educational requirements hold you back from a career in education. If you separated from the military after January 2013, your GI Bill benefits never expire. If you attend university full-time, you’ll receive up to 36 months of tuition at a public university as well as a monthly housing allowance and up to $1,000 annually for books.

 

With these benefits, it’s possible to graduate debt-free and give your full attention to higher education without worrying about holding a full-time job. The possibilities for your career in education don’t stop at a bachelor’s degree. Teachers with master’s degrees enjoy higher pay than teachers with only a bachelor’s degree in many states, even when teaching within the same school, and there’s no limitation on using GI Bill benefits for a post-baccalaureate degree. Your local VA can tell you more about the many benefits you have earned.

 

You might be wondering what type of degree is required to work in an educational setting. Veterans interested in taking their education careers beyond the public school classroom can pursue a doctoral degree. For those drawn to educational administration or governmental and non-governmental agency work, a Doctorate in Education is the best choice. However, if you’d prefer to teach at the collegiate level, a Doctorate of Philosophy in your field of choice will get you started in an academic career.

 

Are you convinced that a career in education is the right choice for your post-military career? There are ways you can do this and you wouldn’t be starting from scratch. Enjoy the educational benefits you’re entitled to and find a fresh way to serve our country. Becoming a teacher is a terrific opportunity for military veterans.

Image via Pexels

Guest Post Article By: Kelli Brewer

Kelli, from the Deploy Care website, reached out to us in an effort to spread the word to Veterans on some of the best ways that they can move their career forward during this ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic. 

Here is her awesome article that can be used by anyone:

Along with serious health concerns, the COVID-19 pandemic has done a number on the economy as well as the everyday routines of millions of Americans, including our nation’s heroes. And if you’re like many others, you’ve either chosen or been forced to reevaluate your career. Whether you’re thinking about starting your own business or looking for another type of job where you can work from home, consider the following tips and resources to help along the way.

The Ellis County Detachment 1452 provides services and programs to our veterans and families to ensure they thrive. Donate today. 

Figuring Out a Way Forward

The first step is to think about what you want so you have a definitive direction to pursue. Then, you’ll be ready to make moves.

●     Veterans have unique leadership and organization skills thanks to their service days, so if the idea of launching your own company excites you, know that you have what it takes to do it.

●     Come up with business ideas that reflect your values and that can make a profit.

●     Research the benefits and rules of Texas LLC registration.

●     Hire people who share your values and will provide top-notch work.

●     If you're looking to be an employee, research companies that are hiring for remote positions.

●     Explore online job boards that provide freelance opportunities.

Succeeding at Your Work

Once you've established what work you are doing, it’s essential to position yourself for consistent, long-term success.

●     Establish a home workspace that provides a physical boundary between your work and home life. If you have disabilities as a result of injuries you suffered during your time in the service, there are modifications you can make to your home office that will help you stay comfortable and productive while you work.

●     Acquire a desk, office chair, computer, and/or any other equipment you need for your daily tasks.

●     Invest in productivity and communication tools.

●     Set a schedule and make sure your family understands when you can and can't be interrupted.

●     Make the time to care for your physical, mental, and spiritual health each day.

Using Veteran Resources

If you're a veteran, there are a bevy of resources worth researching and using.

●     Become a member at Ellis County Det. 1452 for continued support.

●     Check government agencies that provide job opportunities, financial assistance, training, and other resources to veterans, such as the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Veterans Employment Center (VEC), and the Office of Veterans Business Development (OVBD) from the Small Business Administration (SBA). 

●     Explore the various private sector programs that offer resources to veterans, such as CareerOneStop, Hero 2 Hired (H2H), and Veterati.

●     Showcase your military experience and skills on your resume.

●     Apply the disciplines you learned in the military to your work each day.

 

If the COVID-19 pandemic has caused you to reassess your career outside the military, it’s essential to be informed of all your options, and thankfully, there are many routes to success for veterans. Consider the tips and resources listed here to start exploring your business and/or remote work opportunities, and take proactive steps to set you and your family up for long-term success.