What is America's Heroes at Work?

America’s Heroes at Work (www.americasheroesatwork.gov) is a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) program that focuses on the employment challenges of returning Service Members living with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and/or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), particularly those Veterans and active duty military personnel who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. The program equips employers and the workforce development system with the tools they need to help those affected by these injuries succeed in the workplace.

Why are TBI and PTSD such relevant issues?

TBI and PTSD are increasingly recognized as key injuries of Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn. Between 11 to 20 percent of the thousands of brave men and women returning from these conflicts will be coping with the challenges of TBI and PTSD as they reenter civilian life, today and for many years to come.

What kind of challenges will Service Members with TBI and/or PTSD face as they transition back to civilian life?

Although their injuries may not be visible, Service Members with a history of TBI or PTSD may face difficulties. They may suffer from headaches, vertigo, imbalance, anxiety and sleep disturbance. They also may have cognitive symptoms including short-term memory deficits, poor concentration and decision-making difficulties. All of which can interfere with everyday activities, inside and outside of the workplace.

How does America's Heroes at Work intend to answer the call to address these issues?

Employment can play a significant role in the road to recovery for wounded Service Members. America’s Heroes at Work is engaging in a targeted education campaign designed to increase awareness of TBI and PTSD issues in the workforce, and to educate employers on accommodations they can make for these employees to help ensure workplace success.

What educational materials for Employers are available through America's Heroes at Work?

Materials will include fact sheets, Web-based training tools, educational presentations and more — all designed for employers, workforce development professionals, service branches, key military support systems, Veterans’ service organizations and One-Stop Career Centers. For more information, please visit our website at www.americasheroesatwork.gov.

How does this program differ from other TBI/PTSD initiatives?

America’s Heroes at Work is a federal initiative created solely to provide employment support for returning Service Members with these specific conditions.

The program is managed by DOL’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service in collaboration with other federal agencies engaged in TBI and PTSD programs, including the Departments of Defense, Veterans Affairs, Health and Human Services, and Education and the National Institutes of Health.