ClearanceJobs was proud to donate more than $15,000 to Operation Gratitude in 2013. As a special ‘bonus’ to recognize those who took the time to participate in our annual Security Clearance Compensation Survey, we donated an additional $5 for each survey completed in the last weeks of December.
The final numbers are in, and we’re excited to be making another $3,500 donation, for a total of $18,500 in 2013.
Operation Gratitude is an organization that annually sends more than 100,000 care packages to overseas service members, military family members, and first responders. In December, they delivered their one-millionth care package.
THE VALUE OF A VOLUNTEER
Organizations such as Operation Gratitude fill a critical role in providing help and support to deployed service members. A simple ‘thank-you’ goes a long way, and Operation Gratitude has been providing it for over 10 years.
For cleared job seekers and transitioning service members, dealing with uncertain schedules and free time can be a burden. Organizations such as Operation Gratitude aren’t just grateful for donations of money, donations of time are also critical. Volunteering between jobs is a great way to use your professional assets, build new skills, and reap the rewards of giving back to others.
“I volunteered between jobs for multiple reasons,” said Allison Struber, a military spouse who works in education and family services. “Some opportunities provided for a way to give back (church service), others allowed for great networking (Blue Star Families), and all kept me productive during a downtime, and allowed me to expand my horizons.”
If you’re a cleared job seeker who is currently between opportunities, consider volunteering with worthwhile organizations while you can. They offer a way to feel good about yourself, put your skills to use, and can be great experience to highlight on your resume.
“Volunteers are the heart, soul and lifeblood of Operation Gratitude,” said Operation Gratitude founder Carolyn Blashek. “As a non-profit organization, we could not possibly afford to do what we do without the generous donations of time and effort by tens of thousands of volunteers locally and across the country. We cherish every one of them.”
