Audric Madera

Disabled veterans of this country’s armed forces should not have to worry about being able to compete in today’s business world.

And with the help of AT&T they won’t have to. Since 1993, AT&T has been the creator of the DVBE (Disabled Veterans Business Enterprise) program which helps businesses owned and operated by Vets to be successful in gaining contracts and staying in business. This year they launched “Operation Hand Salute”, a new chapter in the DVBE program.

Operation Hand Salute will provide seven mentees with workshops ranging from quality certification and contract procurement to supply chain requirements. Training will ensure that veteran owned businesses will be able to survive against companies that have already been in business for some time and will also allow this country’s veterans to be able to prosper after sacrificing so much for their country.

AT&T continues to use its worldwide power to give back to those people who actually need it - a company that stands for the well being of others above its own goals.

AT&T is a company that takes charge of its social responsibilities through many of its programs directed either at the environment or the communities in which it conducts business. AT&T is a member and supporter of many Veteran Support associations including the Association for Service Disabled Veterans (ASDV), National Veteran Owned Business Association (NaVOBA) and the Elite Service Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses (SDVOB).

By being a part of up and coming businesses and taking the time to market their partnerships and the manner in which they help its Veterans, AT&T can ensure stock holder and customer loyalty and develop key partners who will end up utilizing AT&T to fulfill their communication needs.

In the military, a hand salute is reserved for Officers and is a sign of respect. By naming this program “Hand Salute,” AT&T is clearly and proudly showing their respect and saluting those individuals who have given so much to this country and thereby giving something in return.

Do you think that what AT&T is doing is a good thing? How do you think it will affect future Veteran’s thoughts of starting businesses with programs like this available?

Photograph Credit:
Sabrina Segal