No Cost

Start a Veteran Resource Group

Veteran Resource Groups are voluntary, employee-led groups usually of a common interest. Starting one can be simple (though more mature and larger organizations usually provide their resource groups with a budget). 

Getting Started: 

Find Your Why
Integrity. Authenticity. Honor. These are some of the many values embodied by our military, so the purpose of the Veteran Resource Group must be clear and authentic. Leaders must articulate the reason for creating the group and can co-create the purpose with veterans in their workplace.

Build the Core Leadership Team
Successful VRGs have three core leadership elements: An Executive Sponsor who has the influence, seniority, capacity, and passion to support the group Chair and co-chair to essentially run the group. DE&I support from the company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (or HR equivalent) leadership

Create a Charter
The VRG chair and co-chair, with support from the Executive Sponsor and DE&I office, should create a charter, outlining the group’s Purpose, Mission, and Vision. Said another way, the charter should answer three questions:
1) What is the group’s purpose?
2) What is the group’s mission (what do they “do”)?
3) What is the group’s vision for the future (aspirational and inspiring)

Invite Others and Hold Inaugural Meeting
The chair and co-chair invites others to join the group and hosts and initial meeting, sharing the charter and getting feedback. Many VRGs meet regularly (monthly or quarterly) and seek volunteers to advance their agenda.

Align and Grow
The VRG chair and co-chair should meet with their executive sponsor regularly for support, mentorship, and alignment to organizational goals.