Veteran Friendly Business Recognition Event

Transcript of video:

On 12/9/20, the Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services and NH Employment Security recognized 19 businesses for being NH Veteran-Friendly.

Welcome, Letter of Congratulations from Governor Sununu and  Opening Remarks
Amy Cook, Administrator, Division of Community Based Military Programs, DMAVS; Major General David Mikolaities; Commissioner George Copadis

Welcome!  Before we begin,
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• The itinerary for the event has been uploaded to the platform and is available for you to view.  You can find it in the Chat function.
• This event will be recorded and made publicly available after the event.  

We’re going to start the recording at this time.  

Good afternoon and welcome to the 1st Annual NH Veteran-Friendly Recognition Event!  We are incredibly excited about this new program and to be entering 2021 with 19 businesses to kick off the inaugural year of the program!  This afternoon you’ll hear more about the program and each of the businesses being recognized this year.  I can assure you, it is an amazing and impressive group!

We’ve invited the honored businesses to attend today in addition to special guests including the program’s student logo design contest winner, members of the Veteran community and the members of the media.  

Governor Sununu is not able to be with us this afternoon due to another commitment; however, he sent a letter with his remarks.

I’ll now turn the event over to Major General David Mikolaities, Adjutant General of the NH National Guard and NH Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services and George Copadis, Commissioner of NH Employment Security for opening remarks. 

Benefits of NH Veteran-Friendly Business Recognition
Amy Cook, Division of Community Based Military Programs

There are numerous awards and recognitions with similar titles around the country, but I’m proud that this New Hampshire program has been intentionally designed to be different, unique and collaborative.  We hope that the businesses we recognize each year do not simply hang the certificate and window decal and never give it another thought.  We want the program to be a partnership and to be engaging.  This is just a beginning.  The program application rubric serves as a roadmap that businesses can use to enhance their own Veteran-Friendliness.  The program will be developed, further enhanced and fine-tuned over the next few years.  We expect to receive and give feedback; we want the recognized businesses to get creative with us and imagine how we can continue to develop stronger partnerships between businesses in New Hampshire and the Veteran community in the state. 
Each business will receive:

• a framed certificate signed by both Commissioner Copadis and Major General Mikolaities
• a folder with a variety of information
• a window decal with the program logo to display
• promotion on the Dept of MAVS website
• regular communication from the Div of CBMP regarding a variety of opportunities to engage with the Veteran community
• special invitations from NHES to participate in recruitment opportunities and events, and
• opportunities to network and learn from other Veteran-Friendly businesses.

We will be contacting each business to arrange for delivery of the items we owe you such as the framed certificate.  

Reveal of NH Veteran-Friendly Business Logo and Student Designer
Amy Cook, Division of Community Based Military Programs

Major General David Mikolaities, NH Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services

One unique aspect of the NH Veteran-Friendly Business program will be its logo.  The team that worked to design the foundation of the program felt it was important to include NH’s youth in the program as well in any way we could now in the beginning as well as in the future.  We opened a Logo Design Contest to students in grades 6-12 and received many impressive submissions!  After some hard decisions, the design team, Commissioner Copadis and General Mikolaities all agreed on the design that we each felt best represented the program and the Veteran community.  I’d like to reveal to you the NH Veteran-Friendly Business logo that will be displayed by more and more businesses across the state for years to come.  And, I’d like for you to join me in congratulating Sophie Phillips, a senior from Exeter High School and Seacoast School of Technology—the designer of the submission that was used to create this logo.  
Sophie, if you are able, you can turn your video on and unmute yourself.
Sophie will receive a Visa Gift Card in the amount of $150 and we’d like to thank and recognize the VFW and Paul Lloyd for the donation of this card.

Questions for Sophie—

• Tell us what made you want to enter the contest and what you are considering for plans after high school

General Mikolaities congratulated Sophie Phillips and she shared what she plans to do after high school.

Recognition of NH Veteran-Friendly Businesses
Pam Szacik, Director, Employment Service Bureau, New Hampshire Employment Security
Sarah Morrissey, Assistant Director, Employment Service Bureau / Operations New Hampshire Employment Security
Amy Cook, Division of Community Based Military Programs

Now, we will recognize each of the NH Veteran-Friendly Businesses.  Helping me to do that will be Pam Szacik, the Director, and Sarah Morrissey, the Assistant Director from the Employment Service Bureau at New Hampshire Employment Security.

After each business is recognized, if in attendance, a representative from the business will have a brief opportunity to acknowledge the recognition.  You are encouraged to turn on your video and will need to unmute yourself.  Please keep comments brief so we can stay on time.

BRONZE

The theme of the program’s Bronze Level is HONOR.  NH Veteran-Friendly Businesses that achieve the program’s Bronze Level of recognition are committed to honoring Veterans by implementing strategies and activities aimed at identifying service members, Veterans and their family members.  They successfully create a workplace culture that honors military service.

Hometown Oil
Portsmouth, NH, Julieanne Estes

From its headquarters in Portsmouth, NH, Hometown Oil delivers premium heating oil for use in inside or outside tanks with 24 hour emergency service to a large delivery area in New Hampshire and southern Maine. They also supply on and off road diesel. They have an everyday low price and friendly service.  In May 2011, wanting to support military families in their delivery area, Hometown Oil started delivering oil at a significant discount to each military family for one year. After the year was over, their continued business success allowed them to maintain the same savings and expand to another military family.  

• The company website prominently highlights the company’s commitment to military and Veteran families.
• Hometown Oil proudly supports local Veteran programs and charities through financial donations.
• Since beginning the military discount program, Hometown Oil has delivered over 281,000 gallons to 375 military families for total savings of approximately $85,000.

We are proud to recognize Hometown Oil as a Bronze level NH Veteran-Friendly Business and look forward to partnering with them in the coming year!  Congratulations, Hometown Oil!
Is Julieanne Estes or another representative from Hometown Oil available to accept recognition as a Bronze Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

vest Financial Group, LLC
Portsmouth, NH

Nvest Financial Group helps you and your family build financial confidence, one relationship at a time.  Their holistic financial planning approach helps to ensure that their services and advisors address all aspects of your financial needs so that you are prepared and educated no matter what the future may bring.
Nvest Financial Group is a small firm of 8 team members, but they have a high degree of connectedness to the military.  

• Nvest Financial Group offers pro bono financial planning services to the Veteran and Active Military Community.  
• It has made a significant commitment to supporting military spouse employees during military deployments in ways that are meaningful to the military family.
• Nvest Financial Group hosts “Operation Love” every Valentine’s Day to show support for deployed troops.  In 2020, with the help of the community, Nvest Financial Group collected and sent 289 lbs of goods to troops overseas.  This coming year, they will be sending items collected to Walter Reed Medical Center.  

We are excited to recognize Nvest Financial Group as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations to Nvest Financial Group and its team!

Is Kevin Shaw available to accept recognition as a Bronze Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Service Credit Union
35 locations in NH, Julia Wood

With just $300 and a few officers, Service Credit Union launched in 1957 to provide affordable credit to airmen and their families at, what is now, Pease Air National Guard Base.  Since then, they have grown to serve active military, Veterans and their family members all over the world with 35 locations in New Hampshire.  Service members are at the heart of everything they do.  

• The Service Credit Union website showcases resources dedicated to financial education for military members and specialized products available to military members only
• Military service is celebrated regularly at Service Credit Union—military branch birthdays, Month of the Military Child, Military Spouse Appreciation Day and Random Acts of Kindness for Military Members to name a few
• Service Credit Union regularly sponsors programs benefitting military service members and Veterans with financial donations, in-kind donations and employee volunteer time

We look forward to forging a new partnership with Service Credit Union! Congratulations to Service Credit Union!  
Is Julia Wood or another representative from Service Credit Union available to accept recognition as a Bronze Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Teledyne DGO
Portsmouth, NH

Chuck Tewell    Teledyne DGO specializes in extreme environment, electrical interconnect systems and designs, develops, and manufactures high reliability electrical connection solutions which are used to provide electrical power, controls, radio frequency and fiber optic communications across critical boundaries subjected to extreme pressure and temperature gradients.
Teledyne DGO designs connection systems that transmit signals, data or power through challenging media, such as subsea oil wells, and through pressure barriers, such as the hull of a submarine. Because the cost of failure is so high, Teledyne DGO designs and manufactures its products to deliver total reliability. The company’s solutions support aircraft, biomedical devices, deep-sea exploration vehicles, offshore oil and gas operations, power generation, including nuclear power and submarines.

• Teledyne DGO has implemented significant human resource components within the company to honor and support Reserve and National Guard service members as well as Veterans.  Veteran applicants who apply online are given first preference for all available positions.  The company regularly participates in Veteran-specific job fairs and hiring managers are trained to look for military-related transferrable skills using military culturally competent interviewing techniques.  
• This past year, Teledyne DGO employees participated in a program they called “The Reindeer Express” to send active military members holiday greetings through the mail.
• Teledyne DGO currently employs 18 Protected Veterans and many more that have served in the military previously in their lives.  The company continues to offer benefits and supplemental pay to active duty National Guard members during times of activation if their active duty wages are less than their company wages.  

We are extremely honored to have Teledyne DGO recognized as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business—congratulations, Teledyne DGO!
Is Chuck Tewell or another representative from Teledyne DGO available to accept recognition as a Bronze Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

SILVER 

The theme of the program’s Silver Level is FORTIFY.  NH Veteran-Friendly Businesses that achieve the program’s Silver Level of recognition are committed to fortifying individuals and families who have served in the military.  Those they employ or those they serve are fortified through strategies thoughtfully embedded and sustained in company policies and procedures.

A&R Sawyer Co., Inc.
Windham, NH

Kate Shanley    Established in 1993, A&R Sawyer Co., Inc. is a full service innovator in the fields of mobile application development, employee recognition, marketing collateral and uniform management.  With such a wide area of expertise, they provide one point of contact for full campaign management.  They specialize in helping businesses of all sizes get their message out. From signage design and printing, to apparel decoration, to trade show and special event planning, to corporate gifts and awards. Start to finish, they will help you achieve your goals!  Based in Windham, NH, A&R Sawyer Co., Inc. is committed to developing strategies, policies & procedures that support service member and Veteran employees and customers.

• A&R Sawyer Co., Inc. displays an American flag at the building entrance to not only show their pride in country, but to also show a respect for the military service of employees, customers and community neighbors.
• The company incorporates Veteran employees in the hiring process for Veteran applicants.
• A&R Sawyer Co., Inc. is currently working to implement a strategy to support company military families when a Service member is deployed.

We are excited to support A&R Sawyer Co., Inc. as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business in the coming year!  Congratulations to A&R Sawyer Co., Inc.!
Is a representative from A&R Saywer Co., Inc. available to accept recognition as a Silver Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

GOLD

The theme of the program’s Gold Level is EMPOWER.  NH Veteran-Friendly Businesses that achieve the program’s Gold Level of recognition are committed to empowering Service members, Veterans and their family members that are employed or served by providing opportunities for peer mentorship, career development and personal growth throughout life’s milestones.

Lowe’s Home Improvement
13 locations in NH

Sanja Petrovic    Lowe’s Home Improvement was founded in 1946 by a World War II Veteran.  Lowe’s grew from one small-town hardware store in North Carolina to one of the largest home improvement retailers in the world.  With 13 locations in New Hampshire, the company continues to be committed to helping homeowners, renters and pros improve their homes and businesses.  

• Lowe’s has a rich heritage in honoring military members and veterans through funding and volunteer projects. They support organizations that provide military members and Veterans with safe, affordable housing, workforce training and more.  Their partners include United Service Organizations (USO), American Veterans (AMVETS), Operation FINALLY HOME and others.
• Lowe’s is proud to be an employer of choice for transitioning Veterans and military spouses.  Interview guides are situational in order to best identify and match military training and skills to jobs.  Company associates with military experience wear camo vests, hats and special pins to recognize and honor their service.
• Lowe’s also proudly offers a Military Discount for eligible purchases every day to active military personnel and Veterans.

We are proud to now also recognize Lowe’s Home Improvement as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations, Lowe’s!  

Is Sanja Petrovic or another representative from Lowe’s available to accept recognition as a Gold Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

PLATINUM

The theme of the program’s Platinum Level is IMPACT.  NH Veteran-Friendly Businesses that achieve the program’s Platinum Level of recognition are committed to not only impacting the Service members and Veterans they employ or serve, but are also committed to making a positive impact in the larger New Hampshire Veteran community.

ArgenTech Solutions(pronounced “R-gen-tech” like “generation”)
Newmarket, NH

Brian Veroneau    ArgenTech Solutions, Inc. is a New Hampshire-based, Veteran-Owned, Small Business formed in March 2009. At its core, ArgenTech Solutions has extensive experience and competence in managing complex technical services 24/7, world-wide, in support of unmanned aircraft systems as well as other highly technical disciplines and services. ArgenTech Solutions recognizes that success is dependent upon their employee’s skills, dedication, and hard work.

• ArgenTech Solutions is comprised of 85% of previous military personnel and, therefore, knows firsthand the sacrifices and commitment of Veteran and Guard/Reserve employees.  Currently, 24% of the company’s employees are active in the Guard or Reserves.
• ArgenTech Solutions actively recruits Veteran skill and talent.  Veteran and previous military personnel are the company’s preferred employees and the company dedicates significant resources to recruit this high level of technical skill.  Most recently, they were scheduled to attend the Navy Region Southwest Job Fair in March 2020 at the Coronado Naval Station in San Diego, but unfortunately, it was cancelled due to COVID.
• The company Military Leave policy goes above and beyond the USERRA regulations by offering one month of full paid leave annually to eligible Guard and Reserve employees.  This generous leave policy helps to bridge the cash flow transition from company pay to the first military paycheck.

We are excited that ArgenTech Solutions will now be recognized as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business in addition to its other numerous awards and recognitions!  Congratulations, ArgenTech Solutions!
Is Brian Veroneau available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

BAE Systems, Inc.
Nashua, NH

Brendan Finn    BAE Systems, Inc. in Nashua, NH is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. BAE Systems, Inc. provides support and service solutions for current and future defense, intelligence, and civilian systems; designs, develops and manufactures a wide range of electronic systems and subsystems for both military and commercial applications; produces specialized security and protection products; and designs, develops, produces, and provides service support of armored combat vehicles, artillery systems, and munitions.  
•    Website content demonstrates support for the military and Veteran employees.  A veteran-specific landing page is part of the overall careers site where Veterans can translate their military-specific code into BAE Systems jobs and then apply to the most applicable position.  In 2017, a production team was invited to the Nashua campus to interview several Veteran employees about their experiences with the company.  The resulting videos and interviews are now used for promotional and recruiting purposes and featured on the website.
•    The company has extensive and impressive orientation and retainment programs for Veteran employees that include transition supports, an inclusive and mission-driven work environment, and mentorship and career development guidance.
•    BAE Systems, Inc. demonstrates appreciation for service through several company programs and benefits.  The Remember. Honor.Support Campaign is held each May during Military Appreciation Month when all employees are encouraged to volunteer in their local communities in honor of military men and women.  The Electronic systems Tech Power Corporate Giving Program run by the company aims to maximize their impact on technology education and Veteran and military families by improving lives and advancing careers through the power of innovative technology and experiences.  
The company has been a recipient of numerous awards and recognitions related to their commitment and support of military & Veterans.  We are honored to now also have them recognized as NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations, BAE Systems, Inc.!
Is Brendan Finn available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Dead River Company
7 locations in NH, Jason Grower

A family-owned company, Dead River Company now has over 75 years of experience in the fuel oil and propane business and 7 locations in New Hampshire. While their size ensures a reliable supply of petroleum products for customers, it's how they deliver services and support communities that matters most. By operating locally managed offices throughout Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and now Massachusetts, they still maintain the values of a family-owned company.  
The photo you see was taken on Veteran’s Day 2019 of a group of just some of the Veterans who work for DRC in the Corporate office as well as one of the market offices.

• The company implements a strategy to support employees of military families when a Service member is deployed.  Staff routinely communicate with deployed Service members to ensure family support.
• Dead River Company is committed to attracting and retaining employees of the highest caliber.  The company strategically sources Veteran applicants through programs such as Vets2Techs, Boots2Roots and the Army Partnership for Youth Success Program and provides financial support to Veteran Hiring Programs such as these as well.  The company also includes Veteran employees in company initiatives to hire other Veterans.
• Dead River Company recognizes the value many Veterans place on community service and philanthropy.  The company provides a “Time to Share” benefit to support the efforts of employees who volunteer their time.  The company also provides monetary sponsorships each year for non-profits or charitable causes for which employees are involved.

Is Jason Grower available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

HydraCor, LLC
Windham, NH, Kate Shanley

Born from an e-commerce innovator, HydraCor, LLC emerged as an independent entity in 2016 as the result of two childhood friends discovering a shared passion for patient care and technology.  HydraCor is the developer of the AdvoCor Platform, which utilizes Augmented Intelligence and statistical modeling to predict patient problems and deploy human capital in real-time to address patient needs before they are reported.  Now in over 250 healthcare providers, HydraCor remains committed to delivering the best possible solutions to our partners as we continue to create innovative new applications.

• HydraCor values the talent and skills Veteran employees can bring to the company and regularly participates in military or Veteran-related celebrations, holidays and events.  A company-sponsored luncheon is provided to employees on Veterans Day each year.
• The company is committed to the recruitment, retainment and career growth of Veterans.  This is demonstrated by a Veteran employee included in hiring and onboarding processes and by the Veteran and military experience being represented on the company’s executive leadership team.
• HydraCor contributes to Team Rubicon Disaster Response annually to support their mission of mobilizing Veterans to continue their service through disaster relief activities.

We are excited to now have HydraCor, LLC as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations, HydraCor!
Is a representative from HydraCor, LLC available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Hypertherm, Inc.
Hanover, NH, Joseph Rice

Through a commitment in engineering and to becoming a world-class manufacturer of advanced cutting solutions, Hypertherm’s story has been one of innovation, hard work, and customer focus.  Founded in 1968, its headquarters are located in Hanover, NH.  Hypertherm has more than 1,400 Associates worldwide, partners in 93 countries, and close to 500 global patents; 160+ US patents.  Hypertherm is a 100% Associate-owned company.  A central part of Hypertherm’s mission is to provide for the wellbeing of its Associates, their communities and the environment.  

• Hypertherm has sought out and been designated as an “Approved for GI Bill Use” company through the Dept of Labor so eligible Veteran Associates can access up to 100% of their educational benefits through their apprenticeship and on-the-job training programs.
• As part of a continuous improvement culture, Hypertherm supports and highlights the efforts of Veteran Associates who promote problem-solving within the company.  Their efforts are highlighted within company news reports, through an individual recognition process and on the company website.
• While activated or deployed, Reserve and National Guard component service member employees continue to receive time and benefits associated with their end-of-year profit sharing benefit as well as continue to accrue Earned Time Off.  

Hypertherm has numerous awards and recognitions in its portfolio and we are honored that they chose to also be recognized as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations, Hypertherm!
Is Joe Rice available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

New Hampshire Hospital Association/Foundation for Healthy Communities
Concord, NH, Steve Ahnen

The NH Hospital Association is a non-profit trade association, organized for the benefit of its members and the people of New Hampshire.  Advocacy is the Association's top priority. New Hampshire Hospital Association has 30 registered members.  Located in Concord, NH, the Association serves as a resource for helping administrators, trustees, physicians, nurses, volunteers and others working in hospitals and other healthcare organizations to pursue common goals and meet common needs.  The Association works to preserve regulatory and business climates that support both the clinical and economic performance of healthcare organizations, expand access to coverage and care, enhance the future viability of essential community providers, and improve public confidence in hospitals and healthcare statewide.

• The New Hampshire Hospital Association (NHHA) and Foundation for Healthy Communities (FHC), affiliated and located at the same address, have long been supporters of ensuring that New Hampshire veterans receive every opportunity to live their fullest lives and reach their healthiest potential.  As the parent organization, the NHHA has instilled organizational values and hiring practices that support the hiring of retired military personnel and those currently serving in the National Guard, both of whom remain on staff today.  
• Staff members employed by the NHHA have recently served as members of initiatives that supported the health and well-being of NH veterans, including the NH Governor's Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans and their Families, as well as the VA New Hampshire Vision 2025 Taskforce and the NH Military Leadership Team.
• With support from hospitals statewide, the NHHA has engaged in awareness campaigns and training initiatives designed to highlight the challenges many veterans face so that healthcare providers will be better able to address the needs of veterans and their families.  One of those initiatives, Hospitals for Heroes, aims to raise awareness around the challenges Veterans have faced in receiving care, and after resulting in a resolution by the NHHA Board of Trustees, hospitals throughout the state continue to support efforts that ensure veterans are able to access the care they need, when and where they need it.  

NH Hospital Association/Foundation for Healthy Communities has made a positive and lasting impact in the NH Veteran community and we are proud that they will now be recognized as NH Veteran-Friendly Business.  Congratulations, NH Hospital Association and Foundation for Healthy Communities!
Is Steve Ahnen available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Next Step Bionics & Prosthetics, Inc.
Manchester, NH, Matt Albuquerque

Next Step Bionics and Prosthetics, Inc. was founded in August 1996. The company is dedicated to helping men, women, and children receive quality prosthetic care. The Next Step team serves amputees of all ages from all over the world in Manchester, NH; Newton, MA; and Warwick, RI. The company and its team has a strong presence within each of these communities and within the prosthetic industry as a whole.  As a trusted partner for Veterans dealing with the trauma of limb loss, Next Step Bionics and Prosthetics understands the unique needs of military members who have lost limbs as a result of combat or serious accident and may be dealing with challenges far beyond the physical aspect of limb loss.

• Next Step Bionics and Prosthetics goes beyond providing a unique service and care to Veterans, its team members act as advocates for Veteran clients.  They connect Veteran clients to a community of peers facing similar challenges. They not only coordinate their treatment and authorization through the VA, but they also support the Veterans’ efforts to raise awareness of their care needs by meeting with legislators and political candidates.  
• The company strives to make a positive and lasting impact in the New Hampshire Veteran community.  Its founder actively participates in a variety of state and local efforts to benefit and impact New Hampshire Veterans.  And, the company provides financial support to worthwhile organizations such as Veterans Count and Operation Hat Trick to further their important work on behalf of local Veterans.

We value the work performed by Next Step Bionics and Prosthetics, Inc. and are proud to recognize the company as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations, Next Step Bionics and Prosthetics, Inc!
Is Matt Albuquerque available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

NH Veterans Home
Tilton, NH, Margaret LaBrecque

The New Hampshire Veterans Home (NHVH) is home to men and women veterans who have served their country and fellow New Hampshire citizens; it is the only long-term care facility in the Granite State dedicated exclusively to veterans. NHVH was established in Tilton in 1890 as the Soldier’s Home for Civil War Veterans and is a recent recipient of the Quality of Life Award from the NH Department of Health & Human Services and the Business Inspiration Award from the Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce. The mission of NHVH is to provide high quality, professional long-term care services to the Granite State’s elderly and disabled veterans with dignity, honor and respect.

• Every minute of every day at the NH Veterans Home is about honoring, fortifying, empowering and impacting Veterans. If you have an opportunity to visit the NH Veterans Home, you’ll quickly notice that the staff are not only high quality healthcare providers for the residents, but they have also become family.
• The NH Veterans Home not only cares for those who have served, but they also actively seek to employ those who have served.  Veteran employees have unique experiences serving residents who have also served our country. The relationships the staff and residents develop provide an opportunity for both to share the special bond that exists only between veterans.  The NHVH is a unique employer in that all of our employees (veterans and nonveterans) are honored to support the mission which is to provide the best quality of life for NH veterans, whether that be by cleaning the facility, facilitating recreational programs or helping with daily living activities.  

It may seem to be a given that any Veterans Home be recognized as Veteran-Friendly, but unfortunately, we all have heard stories from other states of facilities that are not worthy of such a recognition.  In NH, we are extremely proud of the Veterans Home that is available to our Veterans and we couldn’t be prouder to recognize the NH Veterans Home as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations and thank you to the team at the NH Veterans Home!

Is Margaret LaBrecque available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Northeast Passage at the University of NH
Durham, NH, Tye Thompson

Northeast Passage (NEP) was founded in 1990 as a private non-profit organization. In March of 2000, after years of successful collaboration, NEP officially merged with the University of New Hampshire as the service branch of the Recreation Management and Policy Department within the College of Health and Human Services.  The mission of Northeast Passage is to empower people living with disabling conditions, both visible and invisible, to define, pursue and achieve whole life health, community engagement and fulfillment through the purposeful use of sports and recreation; to develop and promote best practices in the fields of Therapeutic Recreation and Adaptive Sports. Northeast Passage does this by developing, delivering, and evaluating innovative barrier-free recreation and health promotion programs.

• Both UNH and NEP have web-based platforms specifically to address how they support the Veteran population through the Veteran Recreation program and as an authorized community care provider for the VA.
• NEP is a regular part of Veteran Orientation programs at the University for incoming Veteran students and remains a resource for support of their health and wellbeing.
• NEP participates in the University’s human resources strategies for recruiting and retaining Veteran employees including Green Zone Training provided by the University’s Veteran and Military Services.  
• NEP dedicates a significant portion of grant writing and networking efforts to create and maintain its Veteran recreation and community-based recreational therapy opportunities for Veterans.  NEP is currently providing a Veteran Wellness Series to Veterans around the state of NH to promote daily wellness for Veterans.

We are excited to recognize Northeast Passage and its team of dedicated staff as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations, NEP!
Is Tye Thompson available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Partnership for Public Health
Laconia, NH, Tammy Carmichae

Located in Laconia, NH, Partnership for Public Health is an agency dedicated to improving the health and well-being of those who live in, work in, or visit the Lakes Region.  The mission of the agency is to improve the health and well-being of the region through inter-organizational collaboration and community and public health improvement activities.

• PPH is contracted with the Manchester VA Medical Center and provides case management to Veterans in both the Carroll and Belknap County locations. This program is called the Veteran Directed Program and is a family managed program that aids Veterans in getting the proper care that they may need while still residing in their home.
• PPH staff participate annually in signing and sending cards to active military members serving overseas during the holidays. Veteran families are also selected to receive holiday support (through gift cards and gift items) to demonstrate gratitude and support from PPH staff.
• Currently, the agency’s Substance Misuse & Suicide Prevention Manager is collaborating with community partners and Veteran organizations to provide resources to better serve Veterans in the region, and is actively working towards funding to offer a program that implements suicide prevention trainings for Veterans in the Lakes Region.

We are grateful to have such a great partner serving Veterans in the Lakes Region and are proud to recognize Partnership for Public Health as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations, Partnership for Public Health!
Is Tammy Carmichael or another representative from Partnership for Public Health available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Sig Sauer, Inc.
Newington, NH, Renet Dion (“Reh-net”)

SIG SAUER firearms are the weapon of choice for many of the premier global military, law enforcement and commercial users. No other firearms manufacturer is so highly regarded and so universally respected for the quality, reliability and safety of its products as SIG SAUER.  Designed, engineered, and manufactured in America, and ready to perform whenever and wherever the need arises. SIG SAUER is combining industry-leading product innovation with decades of battle-tested experience to engineer the toughest, and most accurate pistols, rifles, optics, suppressors, and ammunition for the military and federal agencies. It’s the mission at SIG SAUER to provide elite end-users with a complete weapons system they can depend on to prevail under any circumstance.

• SIG SAUER implements innovative strategies to retain Veteran employees by showing appreciation for veterans both internally and externally in the community.  SIG SAUER’s involvement and support for Veterans in the community is very evident to employees as it is showcased through communications--email announcements, weekly newsletters, internal Intranet website, etc.
• SIG SAUER Continues all health and welfare benefits coverage to both our employee and their families while they are out on active duty. They also receive differential pay on their short-term assignments (2 weeks).
• SIG SAUER is very involved with the community and also contributes annually to several veteran charities and organizations. Each year SIG SAUER makes significant charitable contributions in the form of direct financial support (DF), product donation (PD), or volunteer time (VT) of SIG employees. In 2019, SIG SAUER was honored to make over $825,000 in charitable donations.  The company also offers discounts on products to our Military/Veterans.

We are incredibly honored to recognize Sig Sauer as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations, Sig Sauer!

Is Renet Dion available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Southern NH University
Manchester, NH, Michael McGandy

Located in Manchester, NH, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 135,000 online students and an alumni network of over 100,000, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Since its founding in 1932, the University has transformed from a school of accounting and secretarial science into an institution offering over 200 programs, from certificates to doctoral level degrees including business, education, liberal arts, social sciences and STEM.

• SNHU has a long history of supporting the military and Veterans that goes back to the school’s founding.  Support is demonstrated through its actions, policies and procedures.  The institution has a public-facing website for military which demonstrates the value it places on recruiting and supporting student Veterans.  SNHU holds a separate orientation for new student Veterans on campus.  The orientation provides students information about resources both on and off-campus.  Orientation partners include the VA Medical Center and VA Benefits Administration.  SNHU has signed the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support.  SNHU has attendance/withdrawal policies in place to protect students called to military duty.
• SNHU participates in a variety of celebrations and events aimed at honoring and recognizing military service.  It has celebrated “Veterans Week” every year since 2013.  The celebration includes military equipment displays on campus, special events and outings for student veterans, opportunities for other students to thank veterans for their service, etc.
• SNHU also makes a positive impact in the Veteran community beyond the University as well.   Every year, we hold the Penmen for Patriots 5K on campus to raise funds for Veterans Count, a local non-profit.  

We are excited and honored to recognize Southern New Hampshire University as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations, SNHU!
Is Michael McGandy available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Veteran & First Responder Healthcare, LLC
Manchester, NH, Sheena Bice or Dalton McLoughlin

Veteran & First Responder Healthcare, LLC, located in Manchester, NH, is a Veteran owned and operated agency that is a partner in the Strive Health network.  VFR is an outpatient recovery program providing mental health and addiction treatment for its specific population.  VFR’s approach allows clients to maintain their daily life at home and in the real world. True challenges to sustaining a healthy life without relapse exist in the everyday experience and VFR is available to provide real life support to Veterans and First Responders.  All staff are either veterans, service members, family members, or have been trained and demonstrate expert knowledge in military culture and service member needs.

• VFR engages staff in professional development to increase military education and also provides training to community partners of other agencies.
• VFR actively recruits Veteran job applicants and has designed a website that is Veteran-focused and user-friendly to Veteran job seekers and also Veteran clients.
• VFR leadership is actively involved in community and state initiatives related to military & Veteran issues such as the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Service members, Veterans and their Families, Justice Involved Veterans Task Force and the NH Suicide Prevention Council.

We are honored to recognize Veteran & First Responder Healthcare as a NH Veteran-Friendly Business!  Congratulations, VFR!
Is Sheena Bice or Dalton McLoughlin available to accept recognition as a Platinum Level NH Veteran-Friendly Business?

Future Growth of Program & Call To Action
Warren Perry, Deputy Adjutant General, NH Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services and Co-Chair of NH Military Leadership Team

Deputy Adjutant General, COL (Ret) Warren Perry encouraged the Veteran-Friendly Businesses and professionals in attendance to contribute to a broader effort to match talented and skilled Veterans with positions in NH businesses.  Additionally, he recommended businesses connect with other businesses successfully implementing Veteran-Friendly practices to learn from each other.  “Continue to hire Veterans and inspire the next generation of Veterans”, urged Mr. Perry.

Closing Remarks
Commissioner George Copadis, New Hampshire Department of Employment Security

Major General David Mikolaities, NH Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services
    “The partnerships [in this program] are a win-win for all.  It’s a win for the Veteran who has sacrificed all for our state and country to be put into career opportunities.  It’s a win for employers to bring someone into the company who is established and has a good skill set. This is Chapter One of a long, storied career for this new program,” said George Copadis, Commissioner of NH Employment Security.

“A common thread was visible today—compassion, conviction and care for honoring, fortifying, empowering and impacting our Veteran community.  We can’t do it alone.  We need your support.  You’re the ones making a difference every day and we look forward to the next chapter of this program,” said NH Adjutant General David Mikolaities, NH Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services at the close of the event.