Joseph Seeley, senior talent partner, may not be a veteran, but that doesn’t keep him from pursuing a passion for supporting veterans both in and out of the workplace. Throughout his career in talent acquisition, Joseph has hired and worked alongside countless veterans, always floored by their mentality and work ethic.
After working alongside veterans for so long, Joseph decided to join BRAVE, Emergent’s military and veteran-focused Employee Resource Group (ERG). It was through BRAVE that he heard about Rivers of Recovery, a non-profit that provides rehabilitation to combat veterans through innovative, outdoor-based therapies, and an organization the company has supported through Emergent GIVES for many years. Most recently, the Emergent GIVES team approved a $25,000 donation to help more veterans have access to these therapies.
Rivers of Recovery’s programs are designed to provide support and self-confidence to maximize long-term recovery. Joseph recently found himself involved in one: Stars and Stripes charity fishing tournament, which took place in the Chesapeake Bay.
The event took place over the course of two days. The first day, Joseph says, was a welcome dinner; and the second day, it was lines in the water at 6 a.m. with the fishing tournament lasting until early afternoon.
“It was biggest fish wins. Everyone was paired with a veteran and a captain, and we went out, fished, chatted, and networked. There were a lot of great organizations there along with the vets. It was a fantastic opportunity to network and meet with veterans to be part of their recovery process,” Joseph said.
Ricky Derring, a veteran who took part in the event, and who has had struggles with PTSD, said that Rivers of Recovery’s programs and events can be transformative.
“As an individual who has been struggling with PTSD, the impact this outing had on my well-being is truly indescribable,” Ricky said. “Your organization’s dedication to supporting veterans and individuals coping with PTSD is commendable, and I am grateful to have been a part of such a positive and empowering program.”
Joseph echoed the value that he saw Rivers of Recovery having firsthand, for veterans and volunteers.
“Being a part of this event helped me to really see what Emergent’s support means to wounded veterans and the organizations and events that support them. I got a chance to sit alongside and engage with these heroes and through those conversations, they have helped me to see that interaction and connectedness through outdoor activities helps unite, motivate, and heal.”