It’s common knowledge that our military personnel make immense sacrifices to safeguard our nation and its people. However, what’s often overlooked are the significant sacrifices made by military spouses. Frequently uprooting their lives to support their partners in service, they often find their own careers taking a backseat. The startling truth is that the unemployment rate among military spouses stands at 21 percent, despite a high percentage expressing a desire or necessity to work. With many families relying on dual incomes, this statistic is particularly concerning. To address this issue ..read more

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time for self-care, education and making a more conscious effort to prioritize mental health for all. According to the American Psychological Association, 50% of people ages 18 to 34 and 45% of people ages 35 to 44 reported having a mental illness in 2023—some of the highest rates on record. But even for those who don’t have a mental illness, taking care of your mental health is important way to boost your mood and well-being, as well as help guide your physical fitness. Here are some good tips for your mental health this month. Practice Mindfulness Min ..read more

Throughout Military Appreciation Month in May, we honor and celebrate the dedication of military members and their supporting personnel, including military spouses and families. Various days within the month pay tribute to different aspects of patriotism and the individuals who contribute to the strength and success of the military. From Military Spouse Appreciation Day to Loyalty Day, VE Day, and Armed Forces Day (sometimes referred to as Military Appreciation Day), the calendar is packed with events recognizing the sacrifices and achievements of military personnel. Throughout the month, di ..read more

Networking involves cultivating relationships that can be beneficial to your job search and career advancement. While it’s common knowledge that many job opportunities arise through networking, you may feel disheartened if you’re unsure where to start. However, building a professional network is within reach for nearly everyone by following these suggestions to identify and nurture your connections. Firstly, consider who is already within your network beginning with those closest to you, such as family, neighbors, friends, and members of community groups you participate in. From your educatio ..read more

In 2019, the U.S. military established the Space Force, a specialty branch of the Air Force dedicated to operations and protections in space. Less than five years after its conception, a Space Force Guardian is finally heading to the stars. Space Force Col. Nick Hague will be the first Guardian to launch into space on a NASA mission to the International Space Station. Though his exact launch date is unknown, Hague will embark on the mission no sooner than August 1st of this year. Commander Zena Cardman, Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson and Roscosmos cosmonaut Mission Specialist Aleksandr G ..read more

WHAT/WHY: Girl Scouts San Diego will host the Operation Thin Mint℠ Sendoff and Family Festival on Saturday, May 4 for more than 1,500 attendees. The event commemorates 23 years of Operation Thin Mint℠ (OTM), a service project launched in San Diego that has inspired the donation of more than 4.2 million Girl Scout Cookie packages for U.S. military personnel since its inception in 2002. Girl Scouts San Diego will also recognize two groups of Girl Scouts who rose above and beyond during the 2024 cookie program, the world’s largest girl-led entrepreneurial program: The top 10 Operation Thi ..read more

Navigating the interview process as a veteran or transitioning service member is a critical step towards successfully transitioning into civilian employment. Understanding how to effectively prepare and showcase your unique skills and experiences can significantly enhance your confidence and prospects during job interviews. Preparing thoroughly for interviews is essential as it not only demonstrates professionalism but also allows individuals to effectively communicate their qualifications and suitability for civilian roles. By investing time in interview preparation, veterans can confidently ..read more

The Department of Veterans Affairs has recently implemented a final rule to amend its regulations concerning character of discharge determinations, aiming to broaden access to VA care and benefits for certain former service members who were discharged under conditions other than honorable or through special court-martial proceedings. When former service members with other than honorable discharges and those discharged by special court-martial apply for VA benefits and services, their records are thoroughly examined to assess eligibility for the requested care and benefits. This meticulous pr ..read more

Established in 2015, the GI Film Festival San Diego is a multi-day showcase of films for, by, and about military and veteran experiences. Films featured in the festival reveal the struggles, triumphs, and experiences of service members and veterans. The festival also provides veterans and service members with an opportunity to further their creative skills. Documentaries, shorts, narratives, and feature-length films are presented. The festival includes local films, which feature San Diego filmmakers, events, people, or places. Post-screening discussions with filmmakers, actors and documentar ..read more

Embracing Inclusion for Veteran Success Recognizing the challenges veterans face as they transition from military to civilian life, we believe that inclusion is crucial for creating successful and supportive workplaces for veterans. That’s why we take pride in recognizing and celebrating the Top Veteran-Friendly Companies and Schools. This annual list showcases organizations that lead the way in promoting inclusive work environments tailored to the unique skills and experiences of veterans, directly addressing the needs of those transitioning into civilian careers. Our Veteran-Friendly lists f ..read more