Newsletter: November 19, 2009
DVOR Goes Beyond Duty’s Call to Help Veteran
When a friend informed John Reed, a retired Army Major and Disabled Veterans Outreach Representative (DVOR) in Gadsden, Alabama, that a poor and disabled Vietnam veteran was facing a life-threatening illness, he swung into action. Reed, who’s One-Stop Career Center receives funds through DOL's Veterans' Employment and Training Services, arranged for the vet to receive home-health assistance, as well as transportation to and from medical treatment. That quick action, medical officials said, probably saved the vet’s life.
Feeling this still wasn't enough; Reed worked with state officials to secure an assistance grant, and then recruited friends to help make the vet's home wheelchair accessible. Once the vet heals he will also be eligible for job training under the Workforce Investment Act. When Reed was asked why he went beyond duty's call in helping, he responded, "A veteran in need — he served his country and should not be forgotten."
