A shoreline non-profit giving veterans the tools they need to succeed when it comes starting up their own business.
Work Vessels For Veterans just received a $70,000 grant from Connecticut-based Newman's Own Foundation, which was created by the actor and philanthropist, Paul Newman.
The money will help give a boost to at least 20 veteran entrepreneurs across the nation, including here in Connecticut.
Based in Noank, Work Vessels For Veterans equips the nation's vets with the tools they need to start a business, from trucks to office equipment. The non-profit has provided more than 1,400 veteran entrepreneurs nationwide with equipment valued over $1.4 million, according to Cathy Cook, executive director of Work Vessels For Veterans, Inc.
"Veterans as a whole are more likely to go into business for themselves than the normal population," Cook said.
"Most are veterans from Afghanistan and Iraq. They are 1.5 million veterans who have served over there that are back in America trying to adjust from Military life to civilian life," she added.
Stephen Harrington, of Middlebury, benefitted from the non-profit.
Local
He was active duty Navy from 1992 to 1996 and stayed in the reserves until 2000. But now, part time, he runs CT Palm, a business that sells, leases and rents palm trees.
It's possible, in part, because of Work Vessels for Veterans. They bought him the trailer he uses to haul his trees.
"Gave me a push to kind of continue on," Harrington said.
Which is why he's grateful a group like this exists.
"A good way (for veterans) to focus on themselves and do something that makes them happy."
