The Bob Hope Legacy has extended its commitment to EasterSeals Southern California with a three-year, $750,000 grant to further support the development and expansion of the Bob Hope Veterans Support Program.
“Since its founding in 2014, the Bob Hope Veterans Support Program has grown quickly to become an effective and celebrated provider of employment transition services for local veterans,” said Miranda Hope, Legacy member and Vice President of the Bob and Dolores Hope Foundation. “This program is a great tribute to the legacy of my grandfather, Bob Hope, who cared deeply about veterans and their families for six decades.”
Launched with a three-year $1.1 million dollar grant from The Bob Hope Legacy to begin serving veterans in San Diego County, the program has since expanded to serve veterans in Orange County as well. The additional funds will allow the program to increase coverage in those counties and extend services throughout Southern California.
“To date more than 700 veterans have gone through the program. We are thrilled to support an organization that empowers veterans with access to the tools, support and resources they need to gain meaningful employment and thrive,” Hope added. “I know my grandfather would be proud to have his name and foundation’s funds tied to such an effective and meaningful program.”
The program will receive $250,000 per year for the next three years from the Legacy, facilitating the hiring of more Employment Specialists, providing veterans with unique one-on-one coaching and employment support and referrals to other resources such as ongoing education, VA benefits, physical and mental health support, housing and financial assistance to smooth the transition to civilian life.
“The Legacy’s continued commitment to the Southern California veteran community has had a direct and positive impact on the lives, well-being and employment success of hundreds of veterans and their families,” said John Funk, director of the Bob Hope Veterans Support Program at Easterseals Southern California. “It is our incredible honor and privilege to serve this community and honor the Bob Hope Legacy.”
Updates on the program’s expansion and stories of success will be posted on easterseals.com/ESSCBobHopeVeterans. Veterans or potential employers interested in learning more about the Easterseals Bob Hope Veterans Support Program can also call (760) 737-3990.
