For veterans facing the difficult transition from military to civilian life, finding a job isn’t always as simple as submitting a résumé. Many also face housing instability, transportation issues, and emotional or mental health struggles that make that journey even harder.
That’s where Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc. (VRSI) comes in.
Since opening its Bellevue office in July under a newly renewed grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, VRSI has already helped dozens of local veterans overcome these barriers and move toward meaningful employment and stability.
“Employment alone isn’t always enough,” said Shane Mitchell, Employment Specialist with VRSI. “Many of the veterans we work with are also dealing with housing, health, or transportation challenges. We take a comprehensive approach to help them rebuild their lives—not just find a job.”
Founded in 2009, VRSI operates 19 offices across eight states, including Nebraska, Iowa, and Minnesota. The Nebraska team’s work is supported by the Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program (HVRP) through the Department of Labor, which helps veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness achieve lasting employment.
Last program year, VRSI placed 58 veterans into meaningful employment nationwide. In just the few months since the Nebraska office received its new grant, the Bellevue team has already helped several veterans transition from homelessness or temporary shelters into stable housing – a crucial step toward long-term employment readiness.
A Network of Support Under One Roof
The Bellevue office is located at Bellevue University, in partnership with the university’s Military and Veteran Services Center (MVSC) and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) offices. Together, the organizations create what Mitchell calls a “one-stop shop” for veterans.
Within the same building, veterans can access help with employment, education, disability claims, and even participate in Hero’s Encore, a music program that teaches veterans to play guitar.
“Our collaboration allows us to address nearly every challenge a veteran may encounter on their path toward employment and stability,” said Mitchell. “We’re truly a powerful and effective team.”
The Bellevue team comprises Shane Mitchell, Sean McCollum, Joel Thompson, and Matthew Hatfield, who collectively bring years of experience and personal understanding to their work. Each team member is a veteran themselves or has deep ties to the military community, which helps them build trust with those they serve.
The VRSI staff also works closely with JR Richardson, Director of Bellevue University’s MVSC, and Ashlea Rodriguez, Office Manager at the MVSC, who connect veterans to education benefits and community programs.
A Veteran’s Journey: From Crisis to Comeback
One of the program’s recent success stories involves a former Army Ranger whose life had spiraled into hardship after his military service.
Following a string of personal and financial challenges—including job loss, substance abuse, and housing instability—the veteran connected with VRSI. His Employment Specialist helped him address housing barriers and provided consistent emotional support as he worked to recover.
At one point, when the veteran became unreachable and expressed feelings of hopelessness, the Employment Specialist acted quickly, contacting the Veterans Crisis Line and coordinating with a Peer-to-Peer Specialist and mental health counselor at the MVSC. Together, they ensured the veteran received immediate support and ongoing counseling.
After weeks of setbacks and small victories, the veteran began turning his life around. With continued encouragement and help from the VRSI team, he eventually secured employment.
Today, he credits his Employment Specialist, VRSI, and the MVSC team for “not giving up” on him. His story is one of many that demonstrate the organization’s commitment to helping veterans not only find work but also regain purpose and confidence.
More Than Employment Assistance
VRSI’s services extend beyond job placement. The organization provides practical support, including tools and work equipment necessary for employment, connects veterans with training opportunities through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and local Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs, and helps develop personalized career plans tailored to each veteran’s strengths and goals.
“Every veteran’s path is different,” said Mitchell. “Our role is to walk beside them—help them identify their goals, build their skills, and overcome whatever stands in their way.”
As word spreads about the Bellevue office’s work, VRSI hopes to connect with more veterans who could benefit from its services.
“We’re here for anyone who served,” Mitchell said. “No matter where you are in your journey, you don’t have to go it alone.”
