The Schultz Family Foundation has announced investments totaling $7 million in support of efforts to improve employment outcomes for young veterans transitioning from the military to civilian life.

Recipients include USO's Pathfinder Transition Program, which will offer direct coaching and support, and through an integrated technology solution, refer service members to partners to assist with job placement and skills enhancement; VetJobs.org, which helps help junior enlisted transitioning service members identify a career path, connect their skills and how their qualifications apply to that career path, determine gaps in skills and qualifications, and assist with job placement; Hire Heroes USA, which will leverage its one-on-one career coaching, résumé development, mentorship, and placement model; and the Institute for Veterans and Military Families and its Onward to Opportunity program, which provides end-to-end support for training, professional certifications, and job placement for transitioning service members.

According to the foundation, more than 40 percent of military personnel are between the ages of 18 and 24, nearly all of whom are junior enlisted (E1–E5) service members. At the time of transition from military to civilian life, the average age of junior enlisted personnel is 25, nearly half are people of color, and only 21 percent have a job lined up before transition.

"Together with our partners, we're eager to support young veterans who are returning home with tremendous skills and potential," said Schultz Family Foundation president Tyra A. Mariani. "By developing a cohesive data framework that will paint a clearer picture of how to reach junior enlisted service members in need of supports, as well as tailoring training content and offering relevant learning pathways throughout their transition, our partnerships will serve those who have selflessly served our country."