The Department of Veterans Affairs Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment program provides eligible veterans with the opportunity to obtain training and practical hands-on experience concurrently through the Special Employer Incentives program. The SEI program is for eligible veterans who face challenges in obtaining employment.
Veterans approved to participate in the SEI program are hired by participating employers, and employment is expected to continue after successful completion of the program. VA facilitates the process by identifying suitable placements and coordinating efforts between all parties. As a result, the SEI program is beneficial for both veterans and employers.
Employers who hire veterans receive:
Reimbursement of up to 50 percent of the veteran’s salary during the SEI program – which typically lasts up to six months – to cover expenses incurred for cost of instruction; necessary loss of production because of training status; and supplies and equipment necessary to complete training.
VA-provided tools, equipment, uniforms and other supplies.
Appropriate accommodations based on individual needs of the veteran.
The advantage of minimal paperwork to participate.
VA support during training and the placement follow-up phase to assist with work- or training-related needs.
Veterans who participate in the program receive:
Immediate income and benefits as an employee.
Increased chance of being hired as a result of employer incentives.
Valuable skills learned in a practical setting that meets the employer’s specifications.
Opportunity for continued employment after successful completion of the program.
One-on-one support from a VA vocational rehabilitation counselor or employment coordinator to assist with training or work-related needs.
For more information about the program, visit www.benefits.va.gov/VOW or www.vetsuccess.gov. If you prefer to speak to a vocational rehabilitation and employment representative, visit your local VA regional office. You may also call (800) 827-1000.
Continue to check www.va.gov for changes and updates to SEI and Vow to Hire Hero Act programs and benefits.
Richard Schleeter is the veterans service officer for the La Plata County Veterans Service Office. He can be reached at 759-0117 or schleeterrs@co.laplata.co.us.
For more information
The La Plata County Veterans Service Office provides information and assistance to veterans and their families. For more information, visit the county website at www.co.laplata.co.us and type “veterans services” in the search window. The Veterans Service Office and the Durango VA Clinic are located at 1970 East Third Ave. The office phone number is 759-0117. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays except holidays. Appointments are encouraged. To schedule an appointment, call 382-6150. For clinic appointments, call 247-2214.
Health care van service
Disabled American Veterans is running a VA health-care van from Durango to Albuquerque on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and from Farmington to Albuquerque on Mondays and Wednesdays. If you want to use the DAV transportation network, contact DAV coordinators at:
Durango area – 442-0149
Cortez area - (970) 676-1116
Farmington/Aztec - (505) 793-1782
