Fern Summer: Helping Veterans Re-enter the Workplace

NYSID alum Fern Summer reports she is passionate about her new job. She works for Long Island Cares, an organization founded by the late Harry Chapin. The organization’s primary mission is providing food to those in need, while promoting self-sufficiency and public education. The organization also offers nutrition counseling and cooking classes for those living in shelters.

Fern is the Veteran Lifeskills Specialist, a fairly new position designed to provide job search and life skills assistance to veterans. Over 50 veterans are currently listed with the organization, and the list is growing.

Fern runs the VetsWork program which assists Long Island veterans to re-enter the job market. Fern helps veterans polish their resumes and hone their interview skills. She even offers tips on how to dress for success. The program also provides information on available job openings.

Fern says she finds herself not only offering job search help, but true lifeskills assistance on raising children, dealing with aging parents, even some legal advice and connections with attorneys for pro bono or low bono assistance.

For more information on the many Long Island Cares programs available to veterans, go to www.licares.org. Any NYSID alum who may be aware of suitable job openings, or who can offer assistance, please contact Fern.