NYC hearing explores problems facing veterans

From PR Newswire June 30:

NEW YORK -- A dispiriting litany of the many problems New York-area military veterans are facing -- rising suicide rates, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), homelessness, high unemployment -- was voiced by a group of experts last week, at a New York City Council hearing, "Exploring Employment Options for New York City's Veterans," organized by the nonprofit Veterans Across America (VAA).

Councilman Hiram Monserrate, a Gulf-War veteran (a Marine) who became the first Latino elected to public office in Queens, held the hearing as Chairman of the Council's Veterans' Committee.

Dr. Ray Healey, co-founder of Veterans Across America (VAA), announced that VAA, partnering with the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce, will stage a veterans' employment conference, "Six Months to Success," in April 2009. Dr. Healey said the Conference would focus on the needs of wounded and disabled veterans.

Anne Marie Agnelli, Vice President of Public Affairs for CA Inc. (Islandia, NY), announced at a press conference that her company was supporting "Six Months to Success" with a substantial sponsorship contribution.

Wes Poriotis, co-founder of Veterans Across America, said, "One great solution to all the problems outlined here today, from unemployment to depression to homelessness, is good jobs. Employment heals many ills."