HUNTSVILLE, Ala., Feb. 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) is awarding a $10,000 grant to Still Serving Veterans (SSV) to aid in transitioning veterans to meaningful careers.  

Lockheed Martin, a member of the Huntsville community for 50 years, is partnering with SSV to support veterans' advocacy initiatives, long-term development and job placement. The grant will enhance the SSV's Workforce Community Blueprint Transition program, which provides resources for counseling, coaching, job transition and assistance in obtaining Veterans Administration benefits.

There are more than 32,000 veterans in Madison County and 430,000 in Alabama. The unemployment rate for veterans is more than twice the national average, and severely disabled veterans need significant training and assistance to find meaningful employment. Physical and mental hurdles can hamper finding work, leading to financial struggles.

"The selfless service of America's soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines assures the freedoms each of us enjoys every day. At Lockheed Martin, we are dedicated to securing opportunities for veterans when they no longer wear the uniform," said Joanne Maguire, executive vice president, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company. "This partnership with Still Serving Veterans is one example of our commitment to honor the sacrifices and service of our veteran population by supporting their transition from military service."

SSV's focus is on empowering veterans and their families by helping them reintegrate into the workforce and community after their service to our country. "Education, stable and fulfilling employment, and access to healthcare services empower our nation's service members and their families to successfully reintegrate into civilian life and lead enriching lives," said SSV President COL(R) Will Webb. "Our heroes, veterans have done noble things in treacherous places on our behalf.  After their sacrifices, a meaningful new career is the best "thank you" we can give them and their families. This partnership with Lockheed Martin will help to achieve these successes through workforce transition assistance for our community."

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs about 120,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products, and services.  The Corporation's net sales for 2012 were $47.2 billion.

Founded in 2006, Still Serving Veterans' (SSV) mission is to empower veterans, including wounded warriors and their families, by helping them reintegrate into the workforce and community. Services include outreach and education, individual case management, referral to mental health counseling with a focus on post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury, long-term career development and employment placement, financial planning, and help securing VA benefits. SSV works with veteran businesses and coordinates employment opportunities with the Service Disabled and Veteran Owned Businesses in Madison County and throughout Alabama.

SOURCE Lockheed Martin