Des Plaines Chamber's Boot Camp gets veterans back to work

By nature, military service members are cool under pressure, meet challenges head on and get the job done no matter what.

So, when the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry's Veterans Back-to-Work Boot Camp had to switch its format from in-person to virtual, no one batted an eye. They tackled the Boot Camp with the same dedication, passion, and commitment to the program as they have done over the past three years to help veterans succeed.

To that end, the Veterans Back-to-Work Boot Camp celebrated 20 veterans who completed the career development program in a graduation ceremony Nov. 4.

Graduates met at the American Legion Post 36, 1291 Oakwood Ave., Des Plaines, with additional guests participating virtually. The 20 veterans received a career development package, including laptops and gift certificates for professional clothing, headshots, career counseling and more.

"Participants adapted to the changes and improvised to connect from every remote location to accomplish the requirements of the program," said Marne Deithorn, human resource director for Rivers Casino and a Marine veteran and program mentor since the inception.

Initiated in 2016 by the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Veterans Boot Camp provides 10 weeks of comprehensive career development programming, using proven job-seeking tools adapted to the needs, experiences and skills of veterans.

The program connects veterans with mentors, local businesses and leaders; covers career preparation and exploration; provides practical, hands-on assistance with job-hunting, resumes and interviewing; addresses emotional and physical health; and gives veterans the motivation and tools they need to succeed.

"We know these veterans acquired many skills during their service, but far too many have difficulty connecting to the right opportunity that matches their skill set," said Andrea Biwer, executive director of DPCC.

"We help them make that connection - benefiting both veterans and employers in our community. This year, many incredible veterans were affected by the pandemic, and we were honored to help them take steps toward finding a new job or career."

Program impact

This year's 20 graduates join a network of almost 100 Chicago-area veterans who are successfully pursuing civilian careers and community leadership, thanks to their participation in the Veterans Boot Camp.

"A team of professionals is there to help me find a career path and have helped me design a road map to get there. The program is helping me bring it all together: the vocational, emotional, physical, financial, intellectual and social," said 2020 participant Charles Benford.

Laura Johnstone, an Air Force veteran and 2017 Veterans Boot Camp graduate, credits the program with setting her on the path to a management career in the grocery industry.

Now a manager at Jewel-Osco, she reports that "the Boot Camp gave me priceless networking opportunities and the chance to meet with companies that have a desire to hire veterans."

Nick Czerniak, a Marine Corps veteran who is now a firefighter and paramedic, was inspired to make strides in life. "During the Boot Camp, I was surrounded by people with drive who motivated me."

Some Boot Camp graduates return to the program as mentors. After serving in the Navy from 2012-2017, Colin Kipping-Ruane returned home and joined the program, where he found his career direction. Now a project manager for American Eagle, Colin enjoys being a Boot Camp mentor.

"I wanted to give back and help those that were in similar positions as myself. I have always lived by the mantra 'service before self,' and I wanted to do what I could do to help those in need."

Networking

The program wasn't all virtual learning. Veterans attended Des Plaines Chamber's networking events like the annual golf outing, in-person networking breakfasts and even Zoom Leadership and Social Impact meetings to practice their elevator pitches and networking skills.

They also participated in a community service project that benefitted the Self-Help Closet & Pantry in Des Plaines, a nonprofit providing clothing and groceries to community members in need.

"We're extremely grateful to the men and women involved in the program for helping us move into our new home," said Debra Walusiak, executive director.

Thanks to support from Planet Fitness, program participants and their families also enjoyed free livestreamed team building workouts on Sunday nights.

Business support

The business community is a strong supporter of the Veterans Boot Camp.

"Our program is flourishing because of the veteran mentorship, speakers, and financial support of the business community," said Biwer. "We are grateful to Rivers Casino, our presenting sponsor, and additional sponsors including The Home Depot, Amita Health, LSG Sky Chefs, VFW Post 2992, American Legion Post 36, Oakton Community College, Harper Community College and more."

"It has been an honor to partner with the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce to support the Boot Camp from the beginning," said Deithorn of Rivers Casino. "These veterans made selfless sacrifices during their enlistments to ensure our nation's freedoms.

"Rivers Casino is proud to support the program's goal of assisting military veterans with the transition to successful and fulfilling civilian careers."

Program participants have been hired in diverse fields. Recent employers include Accenture, Des Plaines Police Department, LSG Sky Chefs, Jewel-Osco, Mariano's, Kronecranes, Search Inc., Edward Jones, Lincolnshire-Riverwoods Fire Protection District, Daily Herald Media Group, American Eagle, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and others.

"We are so grateful for the men and women of the armed forces," said Biwer. "Veterans Boot Camp is an important way to support the people who put their lives on the line for our country."

For information and to donate to the Des Plaines Chamber Foundation, visit www.dpchamber.com.