Endpapers: The Walt Disney Company's Heroes Work Here Initiative

Today is Veteran's Day and I wanted to share something that speaks to my heart as a both a supporter of our Military Troops and a fan of Disney.  

In different ways, we are all surrounded by the impact of unemployment in our area and in our country. And as hard as it's been, it has been that much more difficult for our veterans seeking jobs when they return home or to keep a position home while they are serving in the Reserves.  

I recently discovered Disney: Heroes Work Here. Heroes Work Here is an initiative with a wealth of resources for veterans interested in seeking employment with the Walt Disney Company. Here is its mission and goal: 

           "The Walt Disney Company has a long history of respect and appreciation for the U.S. Armed Services. We recognize the commitment and dedication it takes to serve your country, and value the leadership skills and sense of purpose the military has instilled in you. It is precisely these qualities we look for in our employees. That is why we have committed to providing career opportunities for veterans over the next three years through Casting Our Veterans, including internships for students and recent grads, through our recruitment outreach program."

This long connection to supporting the Military goes all the way back to Walt Disney's early years. After being denied enlistment in World War I, Walt Disney himself served in the Red Cross in Europe. During World War II, the Walt Disney Studios created and produced training films for the Armed Forces. The U.S. Army even moved onto the Studio lot. Disney also became one of the original sponsors of the Marine Toy for Tots Foundation and helped to design the original Toys for Tots logo. Now, the Walt Disney Company continues its outreach through the Disney VoluntEARS program in addition to Heroes Work Here.  

What struck me the most about Heroes Work Here is how they match one's military occupation to a Disney career. For example, if you were in Military Intelligence, it could translate to Quality Assurance at Disney. Or if you were in Maritime, it could translate to Shipboard/Technical Operations on the Disney Cruise Line. There are also links for students and recent grads who participate(d) in ROTC office, Office of Veterans Affairs or their Student Veterans of America chapter.  

The website also features an interview with J.R. Martinez, the veteran turned soap opera star, who went on to win Season 13 of Dancing With the Stars. Here, he discusses what it was like for him to transition from Military to Civilian life.  

The Learning and Development page on how to package yourself through networking, resume writing and practice interviewing is an invaluable resource to begin the Heroes Work Here application process.  

Today, we honor and thank our Veterans and Troops. But let us also do this in everyday and practical ways. Disney: Heroes Work Here is one of many initiatives that companies are embarking on to employ our returning veterans.  

Writer's note: While I love sharing information about Disney, I am not a current or former Disney Cast Member and I am not compensated for covering Disney in any way.