Compensated Work Therapy Benefits Veterans and NCA

In the dozen years I have been with the National Cemetery Administration (NCA), I have witnessed some amazing things that remind me what I admire about our country and the civil servants who give back to Veterans experiencing tough times. The Department of Veterans Affairs has a wonderful program for Veterans who have suffered setbacks and wish to regain control of their lives. Known as Compensated Work Therapy (CWT), this program offers counseling, training and assistance to those that qualify.

It’s not easy to graduate from this program. Participants are asked to make a sincere effort, with a positive attitude, and are held accountable for their training and time management. Participants are also subject to random drug testing. This is called “work hardening,” which teaches good work ethics. The CWT program was designed to provide a structured evaluation of work potential, improve pre-vocational work behaviors, and prepare the “person served,” as the participants are called, to return to the workforce and daily norm.  Preparing résumés, developing interview techniques and completing job applications are important skills participants learn in the program.

CWT is operated through VA Medical Centers, but many national cemeteries participate by offering work as cemetery caretakers. NCA leadership has prioritized the use of CWT, hiring 38 permanent employees and providing transitional employment for 500 Veterans through the program. NCA ensures strict compliance with the program’s guidelines, provides a fair chance for the Veteran to succeed, and maintains open communication with the CWT staff.

Working in a national cemetery, especially as caretaker, can be very demanding.  Work must be completed no matter how hot, cold, wet, muddy or icy it may be outside.  Veterans and their families have earned outstanding service in their time of need, especially since the Veteran was willing to serve when our country was in need and at any cost. I have twice now been lucky enough to work side by side with Veterans enrolled in the program, as well as a number of graduates. My first experience was at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, where I was assistant director. Today, as director of South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, I am again serving with two Veterans positively affected by the program. One graduate is a temporary cemetery caretaker and the other is a permanent employee, assigned as a cemetery representative.

These employees are a vital part of our cemetery operation and the South Florida Team. I cannot stress enough how proud I am of them and of my colleagues, who have welcomed them into a productive life and workforce. We remain grateful for the opportunity to assist those who are working hard to rebuild their lives. I am pleased by the progress I see in each and every employee here, as well as the flawless service they provide to our Veterans and families.

Was this information new to you?  Were you aware of the program and how important it is to those trying to re-establish their lives after serving?  Do you know a Veteran who may be interested in hearing about this opportunity? If so, please share the information and contact your local VA facility for details. You may just make the world of difference to someone who was willing to give their life for you.

Mishelle Kochel is the director of the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Florida.

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