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VETS News Release: [08/20/2008]
Contact Name: Mike Biddle or Rick Manning
Phone Number: (202) 693-5051 or x4676
Release Number: 08-1157-NAT

U.S. Department of Labor initiative aids employment of veterans with traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a new online resource to help employers in their employment of veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), two increasingly common battlefield conditions. The new America's Heroes at Work Web site (www.AmericasHeroesAtWork.gov) provides information about TBI and PTSD as well as tools and guidance on how to implement workplace accommodations and other services that benefit affected individuals. In addition, the Web site includes the toll-free phone number of the Job Accommodation Network, which employers can call to receive personal assistance relating to job accommodations for veterans with disabilities.

"This America's Heroes at Work initiative focuses on the employment challenges of returning service members who are living with traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "One of the best ways we can help these courageous men and women and honor their sacrifice is to help them return to full, productive lives through work. Employment can also play a role in their recovery."

Chao unveiled the initiative at the National Press Club, along with a number of federal and private partners including: representatives from the Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Society for Human Resource Management.

Although their injuries may not be visible, people with TBI or PTSD may face some difficulties — especially with respect to employment. In many cases, a few reasonable workplace supports can help resolve these issues. Through America's Heroes at Work, employers can leverage a variety of promising practices, such as job coaching and mentoring programs to create a positive, successful workplace experience for disabled veterans and non-veteran employees, such as first responders, who have experienced traumatic events.

America's Heroes at Work is managed jointly by the Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy and Veterans' Employment and Training Service, in collaboration with other federal agencies engaged in TBI and PTSD programs, including the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Education, and the Social Security Administration.