November 14 Goodwill of Orange County Event Introduces New Job Program for Local Veterans

SANTA ANA, CA--(Marketwired - Nov 6, 2013) - In response to the staggering unemployment issues facing young veterans returning to civilian life, Goodwill of Orange County, a social enterprise organization in the business of helping people facing barriers to secure jobs that provide purpose, is launching its new Enduring Independence program at a November 14, 2013 event, "Enduring Independence: Businesses Investing in Orange County Veterans." Hosted by Goodwill of Orange County in partnership with the Orange County Business Council, the event will reveal details about Goodwill's program and will showcase local business leaders, expected to make pledges to support and hire veterans.

"Orange County is home to more than 140,000 veterans -- a population that is facing an abysmal unemployment rate and is eager to join the workforce as they transition back to civilian life," says Frank Talarico, Jr., president and CEO of Goodwill of Orange County. "Our mission is to help people facing barriers gain independence through meaningful work. Supporting the local veteran community falls within that mission, and we're looking forward to showing local business leaders the unparalleled skill set that veterans can bring to their organizations."

What sets Enduring Independence apart from the other 41,000 veteran service organizations in the U.S. is that Goodwill's program does not just focus on veterans, but focuses on employers. The veteran initiative delivers the message to local business-owners that hiring a veteran is not a moral or patriotic decision, but a smart business decision.

Thomas T. Tierney, CEO of Vitatech Nutritional Services Inc. will be the evening's keynote speaker. Goodwill of Orange County will also be honoring the Samueli Institute for its leadership in military medical research. Dr. Kevin Berry, vice president of the Samueli Institute, will be accepting the award on the organization's behalf.

The event will kick off with a reception featuring the renowned Woodbridge High School marching band, followed by the presentation of the colors by the United States Marine Corp color guard. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m., with speakers following at 7:30 p.m. The event will conclude at 9 p.m.

Individual tickets are available for $150 per person, and a table of ten can be purchased for $1,250. Sponsorship opportunities are available from $2,500 to $10,000, which include logo placement at the event, in the event program, on Goodwill's social media channels and more.

Enduring Independence: Businesses Investing in Orange County Veterans will take place on November 14, 2013 at the Island Hotel (690 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, CA 92660). To purchase tickets, please visit http://www.ocgoodwill.org/give/attend-an-event/fundraising-events/enduring-independence.

About Goodwill of Orange County: Now in its 89^th year, Goodwill of Orange County is in the business of helping people who are facing barriers to enter the workforce in a meaningful, fulfilling manner. Founded on the belief that every person should have the opportunity to achieve the independence that work provides, Goodwill is most recognized for being the conduit where donated goods are sold in America's favorite thrift stores to generate the revenue that provides the services to those who face employment challenges. Goodwill leads the nation in creating and providing quality training and employment services to empower individuals to be productive and independent. In 2012, Goodwill was named one of Orange County's Most Trusted Brands. For more information, visit ocgoodwill.org.