Does Starbucks Support Veterans?
When it comes to supporting the men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces, Starbucks has shown a significant commitment to thanking and honoring them. Through various initiatives, programs, and partnerships, the global coffee company has demonstrated a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. In this article, we will explore Starbucks’ support for veterans, highlighting some of the notable programs and initiatives that benefit our nation’s heroes.
Programs and Initiatives
Veterans Employment Program
Starbucks has a dedicated Veterans Employment Program aimed at hiring veterans and their spouses. Through this program, the company offers training, mentorship, and job placement assistance to help veterans transition into the civilian workforce. [1] This program not only helps veterans find employment but also provides them with the skills and confidence to succeed in their new roles.
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Hire Our Heroes
In 2010, Starbucks launched the Hire Our Heroes program in partnership with Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) to hire 10,000 veterans within a two-year period. [2] While the program is no longer active, Starbucks has maintained its commitment to hiring and supporting veterans, with ongoing initiatives to do so.
Military Families
Starbucks supports military families through its Families of the Fallen Scholarship, which provides financial aid to children of fallen U.S. military personnel and veterans. [3] The company also partners with the USO (United Service Organizations) to support military personnel and their families through USO facilities, events, and activities.
Cups for Warriors
As part of its commitment to supporting veterans, Starbucks created the Cups for Warriors initiative in 2011. Through this initiative, Starbucks partnered with disabled veterans to create custom cups, with proceeds going toward supporting wounded warriors. [4] The program continues to support wounded veterans through its partnerships and fundraising efforts.
In-Store Recognition
Starbucks stores show their appreciation for veterans by offering special discounts and recognitions in-store. While not all locations participate, many stores display "Operation Gratitude" kiosks, where customers can donate care packages, cards, and other gestures of appreciation to troops overseas. [5] Some locations also participate in "Purple Heart Saturdays," where veterans and their families receive discounts on their purchases.
Why Starbucks Supports Veterans
While supporting veterans may not always be the first thing that comes to mind when considering a company’s values and mission, Starbucks has made it a cornerstone of its culture. The company’s commitment to supporting veterans is rooted in its Core Values of:
• Hiring and promoting from within
• Investing in employee benefits and career development
• Diversity and inclusion
• Community engagement and partnership
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, Starbucks demonstrates a commitment to supporting veterans through various programs, initiatives, and partnerships. From the Veterans Employment Program to Cups for Warriors and in-store recognitions, Starbucks shows its gratitude and appreciation for the men and women who serve or have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
While every company has its own way of showing appreciation, Starbucks is an example of a organization that puts its values and mission into action through meaningful programs and initiatives. By supporting veterans, Starbucks not only honors their service but also provides a sense of community and belonging for its own employees, customers, and the veteran community at large.
References:
[1] Starbucks. (n.d.). Veterans Employment Program. Retrieved from https://careers.starbucks.com/why-us/veterans/ [2] Wounded Warrior Project. (n.d.). Hire Our Heroes. Retrieved from https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/hire-our-heroes/ [3] Starbucks. (n.d.). Families of the Fallen Scholarship. Retrieved from https://www.starbucks.com/foundation/grants-and-programs/families-of-the-fallen-scholarship/ [4] Cups for Warriors. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.cupsforwarriors.org/ [5] Operation Gratitude. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.operationgratitude.com/