GREENVILLE, SC (SCDVA) - The South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs hosted a recognition ceremony to honor Veteran non-profit Upstate Warrior Solution and the Greenville Police Department as Gold-rated Veteran-Friendly Employers.

The South Carolina Veteran-Friendly Employer Recognition Program highlights South Carolina business that enable thriving Veterans by:

• Recruiting Veterans into their organization;
• Empowering Veteran employees to reach their full potential; and
• Enhancing the potential of Veteran employees.

Both Upstate Warrior Solution and Greenville Police Department have achieved gold standard based on 15% or more of their workforce being comprised of Veterans; 15% or more of their senior management positions are filled by Veterans; and at least 75% of the employer’s hiring managers have been trained in the past 12 months on the following:

• Creating a Veteran-friendly culture and onboarding program.
• Hiring and retaining Veterans with disabilities.
• Hiring and retaining Women Veterans.
• Creating a Veteran spouse hiring program.
• Employer provides internship or apprenticeship programs.

Charlie Hall who is the President of Upstate Warrior Solution (UWS) says “UWS is proud to receive this recognition from SCDVA as a gold level Vet-Friendly Employer. We know from experience that Veterans are a force multiplier in the civilian world. Because of this, we're committed to not only recruiting and retaining Veteran employees, but also to providing support to Upstate businesses as they seek to do the same."

“It is an honor for the Greenville Police Department to be recognized by the South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs with the Gold Standard Award,” says Greenville Police Chief Howie Thompson. “This award highlights our efforts and recognizes our commitment to hiring veterans. Prior service is valued at the GPD which is demonstrated in our current ranks. Our department currently employs 60 Veterans (29.7% of the agency) and more than half of the hires this year are Veterans.”

Todd B. McCaffrey, the Secretary of the South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs believes our state’s economy will continue to thrive with the unique skills and experiences of Veterans, and the employers who create space to effectively integrate those who served proudly into their workforce.

“We’re proud to honor Upstate Warrior Solution and Greenville Police for their gold-standard programs that empower and promote Veterans to thrive in the workplace. One of SCDVA’s focus areas is supporting the linkage of Veterans to employers through our coalition network. Highlighting Veteran-friendly employers not only brings awareness to recruitment efforts, but it also empowers Veterans to know that their commitment, skills, and expertise gained while serving in the military is valued and honored by employers. With nearly 30,000 Veterans living in Greenville County alone, our state’s economy benefits tremendously from their employment. Recognizing employers who are dedicated to hiring Veterans enhances the collective mission of creating an environment where our Veterans and military retirees live, work, and thrive in South Carolina for years to come.”

During the recognition ceremony, Upstate Warrior Solution was also honored by SCDVA with an official partnership signing to join the South Carolina Veteran Coalition.