The Berks County Department of Veterans Affairs is expanding employment assistance for local veterans and their spouses through a new partnership with PA CareerLink Berks County, bringing career counseling, job training resources and other support services directly to the Etchberger Veterans Service Center in Wyomissing.
Beginning Thursday, Nov. 19, employment services will be available every Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the center, located at 20 Commerce Drive. Walk-ins will be accepted, although appointments are encouraged.
The new Veterans Employment and Assistance Program (VEAP) is designed to help veterans transition into civilian employment while addressing challenges that may prevent them from entering or remaining in the workforce.
Through the partnership, participating veterans will have access to individualized career assessments, résumé development, job searches, employment counseling and connections with local employers. The program will also provide access to workforce training, professional certifications and on-the-job training opportunities.
Additional assistance may be available to eligible participants facing financial or personal barriers to employment, including transportation costs, childcare needs, housing instability and expenses related to work clothing, uniforms, textbooks, tools and certification testing.
Lt. Col. Jay Ostrich, USAF (Ret.), director of Berks County Veterans Affairs, said the partnership is intended to help veterans apply their military experience and skills to opportunities in the local workforce.
“Berks veterans answered America’s call to serve with courage, discipline, and sacrifice. Now they want the opportunity to bring those same qualities to our local workforce,” Ostrich said. “Through this partnership with PA CareerLink, we’re not only helping veterans find jobs; we’re removing barriers and restoring purpose to our heroes to continue serving our community in new and meaningful ways.”
Ostrich said offering employment services at the Etchberger Veterans Service Center will also make it easier for veterans to access assistance without having to visit multiple agencies.
“Veterans should not have to navigate multiple agencies or overcome unnecessary obstacles to access the assistance they have earned,” Ostrich said. “By bringing these services under one roof, we are making it easier for Veterans to move forward with dignity, confidence, and opportunity.”
The partnership combines PA CareerLink Berks County’s workforce development resources with the county Veterans Affairs Department’s experience assisting veterans and their families.
“Veterans have dedicated themselves to serving our communities and county. Providing PA CareerLink® Berks County staff onsite at the Veterans Affairs office makes it easier for veterans to access the workforce resources, training opportunities, and employment connections they need to achieve their career goals right here in Berks County,” said Amber Columbo, director of the Berks County Workforce Development Board.
County officials said the program will focus on long-term employment success rather than job placement alone. Participants will receive individualized employment plans and continued assistance, including follow-ups at 30-, 60- and 90-day intervals to support job retention and career advancement.
Employment counseling and program assistance will be provided at no cost to eligible veterans. Financial assistance and other supportive services will depend on eligibility, documented need and available funding.
Veterans interested in participating can contact the Berks County Department of Veterans Affairs at 610-378-5601 or Veterans@berkspa.gov for more information.
Services will be offered every Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Etchberger Veterans Service Center, 20 Commerce Drive, Wyomissing.
