"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
There are over 3,000 veterans in Mecklenburg County who need a job right now, but can't find one.
More will be pouring in soon from overseas.
All of them have risked their lives for our country, and when they come home, the least we can do is help them find a way to make a decent living.
Too often, that's not the case, and we can't just blame a tough economy.
Some veterans tell us they fight discrimination when applying for civilian jobs.
And every year, more than 1,000 active-duty troops complain of being denied positions by employers because of their military obligations,
despite the fact that it's illegal to do so.
Corporations should be supporting our vets, not hindering them.
Thankfully, here in Charlotte, some have just committed to do so.
A group of local companies and nonprofits say they want to raise $1 million by Memorial Day to help vets find work.
It's called the Charlotte Veterans Employment Initiative, and the money will be used for both training and placement.
Wells Fargo and Goodrich are driving the effort -and we commend them.
They're also issuing a challenge for others to help, with monetary contributions or job opportunities.
We hope you'll consider it.
You can learn more on our SpeakOut page at WBTV dot com.
Tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
