Where do you go to find jobs?

2015-09-24T16:14:10-04:00

I am curious. Where do you go to find a good job opportunity after the military? Job boards? Veteran Organizations?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 24 at 2015 4:17 PM

2015-09-24T16:17:34-04:00

usajobs.gov

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Sep 24 at 2015 4:18 PM

2015-09-24T16:18:15-04:00

Monster.com, Temp Agencies (Great for temp to Full), Linked In. RallyPoint has a jobs section as well.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 24 at 2015 4:31 PM

2015-09-24T16:31:35-04:00

I see that you are already a LinkedIn member. Join the group "Veteran Mentor Network." Look at the discussions for useful information. You can also post a discussion asking for help finding a job. You are working on your M.B.A., which is good. Are you looking for an accounting position or HR?

Response by 1LT William Clardy made Sep 24 at 2015 4:48 PM

2015-09-24T16:48:13-04:00

Monster.com
CareerBuilder.com
Dice.com
ClearanceJobs.com
MilitaryHire.com
LinkedIn.com
Indeed.com
GlassDoor.com (better for assessing companies than finding jobs)
Even Craigslist.org, if you're looking for entry-level or it's that kind of a day
If you're interested in civil-service jobs, usajobs.gov and whatever your states' employment-assistance website is.

On any of the sites where you can maintain a profile and post a resume, do so and don't let it go more than 2 or 3 weeks without updating something (even if it's just shuffling bullet points) because recruiters and HR personnel will skim for resumes less than 30 days old as an indicator that you're actively looking. If you're submitting your resume for a job, always do a cover letter where you list off the 3 or 4 most important items on the job description and match them up with something from your resume that says you can do it --- do that also if a recruiter is the one forwarding your resume, because it helps them sell you.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Sep 24 at 2015 4:52 PM

2015-09-24T16:52:54-04:00

Business school.

Leveraging your GI bill benefits to get an education in Business at the Master's or bachelors level can yield significant benefits in employ ability from education, networking, and staffed and integrated career management centers.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Sep 24 at 2015 6:48 PM

2015-09-24T18:48:13-04:00

It depends on what you are looking for. Try LinkedIn

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Sep 24 at 2015 7:50 PM

2015-09-24T19:50:27-04:00

The number one source of real job opportunities is referrals. Many jobs are "advertised" by companies simply to test the employment marketplace, confirm salary levels, etc. Job seekers need to network. Get out, press the flesh, and talk. Have a 30 second "elevator pitch" ready and rehearsed. Have a business card to hand out (you can get them for free on the Internet). When you run out of friends and family to annoy, meet new people, make new friends and annoy them. Networking events are usually a waste of time full of others also looking for work. Socialize in places and with people where you can make productive contacts. Good luck and good hunting...

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 25 at 2015 8:33 AM

2015-09-25T08:33:44-04:00

SSG Clark-Depends entirely on what career you're hoping to pursue. If you're intending to continue in Federal service, then there are many paths to finding and applying for positions-Be prepared for high competition from a saturated resource pool and the "red tape" one expects.

On the private sector side of things (where I ultimately ended up), it can be no less complex...however, as some RP members have already stated, there are "hints" at getting around the nasty little things corporations do to sample the hiring market.

1. Decide what interests you and best fits your talents. Research that market and obtain an understanding of the economic outlook and projected growth. Lots of companies enter already cramped sectors only to fizzle out or become "absorbed" within a short time. Others are so large, you are "lucky" to get any entry level job at all. Go to a leading trade event and meet with people in the industry-don't lead with "I'm looking for a job"...rather, get a feel for the skills and demographics of the people currently working in the job you want.

2. Network...a lot. I was able to obtain the position I've been in for the last seven years and counting through informal connections. This often means that long before you show up for an interview, someone on the inside has petitioned your case. Going into an interview or filling out an application online without contacts is kinda like sitting for a performance review with people you've never worked for...with predictable results.

3. Be skeptical of "military hiring fairs"...they can be doorways to opportunity, however, most companies view these events as outsourcing of the hiring process to people who are paid to know how to interpret our abilities into a position. What that actually means is that some other veteran has mastered a way of making a living providing predictable results...you can guess that the available jobs are "tailored" to ensure his/her continued success...not by necessity, yours.

4. Accept the hard truth that civilian companies do not consider the challenges you've met as an leader in the military to be equivalent to a management position with their company. Where you can "knock their socks off" is by using those military leadership skills to not only meet but exceed their expectations...then your background becomes "unique" and valuable.

Best Wishes...and Happy Hunting!

Response by SN Alex Tufail made Sep 27 at 2015 2:37 AM

2015-09-27T02:37:51-04:00

If you have an idea of what you want to do then using Job Search engines and right here on Rally Point is a good start. You can apply your training to a career field outside of the military.
LT William Clardy gave you all the resources where jobs are found. You could try Craigslist. Sometimes they have some awesome positions.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 27 at 2015 8:38 AM

2015-09-27T08:38:19-04:00

there are so many avenues out there to search for jobs for transitioning Soldiers. Go to your ACAP, TAP briefings and attend job fairs. Source yourself out to people and make long lasting contacts that you can use as ways to look for employment. I am currently working on that as well, as I am down to my last few years active duty.. But when retirement finally shows its face, I want to be ready for it, and not leave without a fall back plan.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Sep 27 at 2015 10:19 AM

2015-09-27T10:19:17-04:00

LinkdIn

Response by SN Gs Crable Sr. made Sep 27 at 2015 4:45 PM

2015-09-27T16:45:11-04:00

There are many vet-run orgs that specialize in helping newly-separated servicemen & women find suitable employment. I'm not sure of this site's protocols, even after reading the guidelines, but I do know of an excellent source for transitional employment guidance, support and resources, but I don't how to share that here without breaking the rules.

To Moderator(s): this is about sharing a referral, there's nothing in it for me; and I'm not 'promoting' anything, I'm just directly responding to the question above.. so how do I compliantly share here what could be a great resource, or even a life-changing event, for the benefit of the OP? thanks:)

Response by SSG Jerry Eidson made Sep 27 at 2015 9:09 PM

2015-09-27T21:09:11-04:00

Usajobs.gov, indeed

Response by SPC Luis Mendez made Sep 27 at 2015 11:00 PM

2015-09-27T23:00:41-04:00

Anywhere and everywhere a job may be available or is being offered.

But if you have to ask, that means that the Military was not a real useful experience. That maybe why for most of the Private Sector jobs, a Military Tour is Not a favorable factor or highlights in the resume. Simply because most vets have an MOS with few or none at all civilian equivalent example 11B20 et al. That happened to me. Though I had a good MOS, with equivalent civilian specialties. They were far and few at the time and still are.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 12:27 AM

2015-09-28T00:27:05-04:00

I made nearly all of my connections on LinkedIn actually.

Response by Pvt Richard Hy made Sep 28 at 2015 3:53 AM

2015-09-28T03:53:21-04:00

If you are interested in a skilled trade you can contact any local union office to get into an apprentice training program. There is a special Helmet to Hardhat program for vets, esp women and minorities as there are hiring quotas that need to be met for jobs using federal or state money. You get paid on the job training and usually 2 nights/week classroom instruction over 4-5 years with graduated pay increase every year to completion of Journeyman training.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 7:17 AM

2015-09-28T07:17:29-04:00

I got my current job from my local newspaper.... and another job offered through USAJOBS.GOV. my current job is close by and just making a few thousand less than the USAJOBS.GOV's one, but USAJOBS.GOV's one need me to relocate. So ... I pick the local job.

Response by SPC Greg Andle made Sep 28 at 2015 9:17 AM

2015-09-28T09:17:41-04:00

What are those? They don't exist...

Response by MAJ Anthony Henderson made Sep 28 at 2015 9:19 AM

2015-09-28T09:19:29-04:00

Are you looking for a job or career? Public or Private sector? If you are looking for a career with the Federal Government as a civilian employee USAJOBS.gov is the place to look. If you want a career in the private sector Indeed or LinkedIn would be two places to start. Networking in both sectors would help get your name out there.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 9:48 AM

2015-09-28T09:48:20-04:00

Find the local veterans organizations where you intend to end up. I assume you don't want to stay in Fairbanks. Nobody does.

Response by SrA Patrick Clark made Sep 28 at 2015 11:07 AM

2015-09-28T11:07:31-04:00

http://www.orioninternational.com/ This is where I went. They hold hiring conferences every couple of months for veterans. All of the companies will be military friendly. In a two day conference you can get up to 8-10 interviews.

The nation's leading provider of best-in-class Military Talent Programs, which allow...

Orion International is the nation's only provider of best-in-class Military Talent Programs, which allow organizations to attract, hire, develop and retain top quality Military Talent.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 12:18 PM

2015-09-28T12:18:45-04:00

Since I had no intention of moving I limited searched to local papers and resources. Likedin and other sites are good if you don't mind moving.....but not everyone has the luxury of being able to move where a job is....some of us have to simply take what is available.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 12:28 PM

2015-09-28T12:28:13-04:00

Recruiting station :)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 1:08 PM

2015-09-28T13:08:59-04:00

i used craigs list before and in my background it was the best source.

Response by CSM William DeWolf made Sep 28 at 2015 3:10 PM

2015-09-28T15:10:08-04:00

Job boards and Veteran Organizations is a start but, would hope that career services offices at local colleges, etc. would be willing to assist or offer advice as well. Good Luck Cecelia!

Response by PO2 Peter Klein made Sep 28 at 2015 10:37 PM

2015-09-28T22:37:44-04:00

Try Military Dispatch.
Network, network, network!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 12:55 PM

2015-09-29T12:55:39-04:00

If you are like me you won't find many "good" jobs in print newspapers, you have to go on line. I used Zip Recruiter and it really helped me zero in on the type of job, the desired location and the pay and benefit package that appealed to me. The local job boards are not kept up to date, my experience anyway, but I did get some valuable computer training, for free, which was helpful. Make sure that your resume is scrubbed of military jargon, don't use our acronyms, be honest and truthful, they can check your facts, and don't settle for less than you would like, be a tough but fair negotiator. For example, I asked for more salary, they said no, so I said how about more vacation time, and they said yes. If they want you they'll fit you in to the program. Always make sure they offer heath insurance and research the company before you interview and try to find out what kind of "Command Climate" they have. A job may seem desirable but not at the expense of your sanity. There are tyrants out there that get off on power. Do your homework.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Sep 29 at 2015 1:04 PM

2015-09-29T13:04:17-04:00

SSG Cecilia Clark - you can try job boards, etc. I'd recommend RP. second best choice is Linked In, combined with Twitter

Response by SSG Michael Johnston made Sep 29 at 2015 1:51 PM

2015-09-29T13:51:40-04:00

I attended a "Hiring our Heroes" job fair (its US Chamber of Commerce partnered with various private sector organizations) in D.C. and was offered a position with 2 federal agencies that same week (Dept of Treasury and Dept of Education). What I found out, was that federal agencies can direct hire veterans, under the VRA (Veterans Recruitment Appointment). This takes USAJobs out of the process.

I believe these job fairs are held in the majority of major cities across the U.S. I would highly recommend attending one. Skip all of the private organizations that will be in attendance and go directly to the government agencies.

I have also seen a number of individuals utilize the professional networks available through being a member of Team RWB, VFW, etc. I think it just depends on the individual (job seeker) and how they approach the search.

I'm available off-line.

Best of Luck,

Response by SSgt Phil Sigman made Sep 29 at 2015 5:59 PM

2015-09-29T17:59:03-04:00

I found my current job at indeed.com. They are linked with my state's employment office.

Response by SSG Toryn Green made Sep 30 at 2015 12:33 AM

2015-09-30T00:33:18-04:00

Great topic! I was using Indeed bc you can create a profile and apply to a number of jobs right on your phone. Recently, I have become very intrigued by programs such as the HoH program.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Sep 30 at 2015 8:29 AM

2015-09-30T08:29:34-04:00

It really depends on you, your location, and the job market that you are looking at. Are you looking for a government job or a civilian job? Are you wanting to go to school before you start working or are you thinking of working while going to school or just working and holding off on school for now.

There are a ton of great resources listed here already. My word of advice is to do exactly what you are doing here in this thread. Ask questions, a lot of them. If you get confused or want a second set of eyes to look over something, we are here. If you want/need help on writing an EFFECTIVE resume, reach out, we are here. And yes, there is such a thing and a huge difference between having a resume and having an effective resume.

You can feel free to reach to me with any questions if you wish.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2015 10:10 AM

2015-09-30T10:10:20-04:00

As a pilot, we are in a niche market and as such most career opportunities are presented on some very specific job forums. For us, the main ones are:
climbto350.com
FindAPilot.com
Bizjetjobs.com

And insert any regional or major legacy carrier website here. They are all hiring now as the FAA Mandated 65 retirement age is going to drive these guys out in droves.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Sep 30 at 2015 10:48 AM

2015-09-30T10:48:40-04:00

Usually, I use LinkedIn, Indeed, and whatever company I am applying for's website.

Response by CPT William Gordon made Sep 30 at 2015 3:59 PM

2015-09-30T15:59:54-04:00

you have a few options, there are veteran job fairs all over the country if you have a VA benefits account they post open jobs all the time. also there are websites (and I am not endorsing any of these) but they are a source of information. Together we served is a good source of information and job postings. also military one source just to name a few.

Response by PO2 Peter Klein made Sep 30 at 2015 10:41 PM

2015-09-30T22:41:17-04:00

Saw a post here on RP that Verizon is the top employer of vets.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made Oct 1 at 2015 3:42 AM

2015-10-01T03:42:08-04:00

SSG Cecilia Clark
Check out the state parks and resorts in your area. Everything from Park Ranger to Park Manager and lot's of admin.
Good Luck!
Rick

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2015 4:24 AM

2015-10-01T04:24:47-04:00

Schneider jobs.com

Response by SFC Joseph Motes made Oct 1 at 2015 11:30 AM

2015-10-01T11:30:46-04:00

Hi Cecilia. Have you attended a Virtual Recruiting event? If not message me I will explain how and the benefits.

Joe

Response by SPC Lazaro (Laz) Diaz made Oct 1 at 2015 2:03 PM

2015-10-01T14:03:06-04:00

If any veteran or active duty person is interested in IT and would like to get certified in Cisco's CCNA Routing/Switching; please let me know and I will send you a coupon code to register to all my courses for FREE.
This should help many who need to make the transition from a Military to a Civilian life.
My email is: [login to see]

Response by Cpl Greg Ekborg made Oct 1 at 2015 2:04 PM

2015-10-01T14:04:27-04:00

I work with a Veterans Service Org that is a Non-Profit to help transition. We do have a great free online course for military to help you with those decisions. Both a career or starting your own business. Please check out the links below and remember like a few have already stated, networking with fellow veterans is always key to landing a great career.

Career Guide: http://americandreamu.org/dream-job
Business Start Up Guide: http://americandreamu.org/entrepreneur

Dream Job - American Dream U

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Oct 2 at 2015 11:50 AM

2015-10-02T11:50:15-04:00

Believe it or not, transfer to the Reserves or National Guard. I can honestly say I have seen more people network better using their contacts in the Guard then I have anywhere else. Who else but a fellow reservist will know your skill sets, what you can and can't do? Who would be better connected to a business. I personally have recommended dozens of troops to other civilians, and NCO's and Officers who run or own a business. My unit in El Paso, TX had more federal employees in it then you could shake a stick at: IRS, Marshall Service, ICE, Social Security, Border Patrol, Postal Workers, Federal Technicians, Contracted workers to Fort Bliss, GS workers to Fort Bliss, and a host of Fed agencies I can no longer remember.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Oct 2 at 2015 1:30 PM

2015-10-02T13:30:12-04:00

Job fairs are a good way to get your resume out if there is one in your area.

Response by SPC Alan Finch made Oct 3 at 2015 12:36 AM

2015-10-03T00:36:25-04:00

I hear it is a tight job market right now and what I learned came from years of trial & error, then finding successful mentors who invested wisdom in my process. Permit me to pay it forward.
First ask yourself: "Am I looking for a 'job' or a career?" This one question can save you years of frustration. If you have a passion to do a certain line of work, then pursue what you love. If you don't know what that might be, then I would advise to first sit down, take a mental inventory of your skill-sets, write them down, and decide what fields they may apply in. How well does your military occupational specialty translate to civilian life? Is that even something you want to do? Is going back to school an option? What goals do you wish to achieve? Is starting your own business an option?
There are plenty of job search engines out there. I'm not a fan of careerbuilder.com or monster.com; both seem to collect my personal information and then loaded my email with a bunch of spam. Indeed.com was simple to use and was more effective for me, and I could upload my resume so companies could find me by keywords. Using job sites is a fair way to start. Use it to give you momentum, and hopefully get ideas on the types of companies to apply with directly. For example, if you were an engineer in the military, look for engineering companies locally. Go to their website & look to see if they have any positions available. I would even consider calling the H.R. Department there, calling with enthusiasm and emailing a copy of your resume. Follow-up every two to four weeks if that is someplace you really want to work at. Show them you are sincere and study all you can about the company. You may consider temp work until an opening frees up or try another similar company or a competitor.
As a veteran, you have access to a myriad of resources, most of which are free to active military service members & veterans. There are some at your local public library. One of best success tools out there is through Thrive15.com (also free to veterans & military personnel) to learn how to start your own business or prosper in the occupation you are in. This video explains it in a nutshell: bit.ly/1L3dyPr. Even your local SCORE organization has classes; some are free, some are not, but worth considering.
Also sign up with LinkedIn to connect with friends & work associates that may lead to referrals or postings listed by companies who prefer that media channel instead. They say it is about who you know; try it. Discover what works for you where you are at. What works in a bigger city may not work in a rural area & vice versa. Stay flexible in your approach. Don't get discouraged; use any failures as opportunities to learn what worked and what didn't, then use them as stepping stones to get to your success(es). Persistence & determination are omnipotent. Be tenacious and don't stop until you've acquired what you seek. Best of success to you!
- Alan Finch

Response by CW2 Michael Berthiaume made Oct 5 at 2015 7:21 PM

2015-10-05T19:21:41-04:00

USA JOBS is great for Veterans.

Response by SPC Charles Slininger made Oct 13 at 2015 2:28 PM

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You can go to the "tried & true" major job boards (Monster, Careerbuilder), social network sites (LinkedIn, GlassDoor), "all you can search" sites (Indeed, Beyond, SimplyHired, Jobs2Careers), or Industry Niche sites like Dice for IT, SnagAJob for Temp/Contract Jobs, HealtheCareers for Healthcare, etc. It depends on what you are looking for and if you are a passive vs. active job seeker. Just remember to be patient as its common to get bounced around from site to site to site and get a poor experience until you finally get to the company's site to apply as a lot of job boards post on each other.

You can go to military job boards like Recruit Military, Military Hire, Clearance Jobs, Intelligence Careers, etc to find some good jobs as well that are focused on transitioning military but don't expect that to automatically get you hired. These companies that post there want people with military background & experience but only if you are a fit for what they are looking for. If you have been in the military for 9 years and expect to walk into a position without knowing Python coding for example then you won't get the mid-level developer job.

Good luck!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2015 1:45 PM

2015-10-22T13:45:41-04:00

You could try USAJOBS.GOV, Soldier for Life Program usually has employers come in and speak to transitioning military personnel. You can try local job fairs too.

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Oct 24 at 2015 11:17 PM

2015-10-24T23:17:47-04:00

SSG Cecilia Clark - I'd steer clear of job boards. That's, like, the third place recruiters post openings. Linked In and Twiitter are numbers one and two. Connect with me on Linked In. I have upwards of 5,000 connections - one of them is bound to have something you're interested in.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2015 9:42 AM

2015-10-25T09:42:11-04:00

Please for the love of God don't use job boards. Its a resume black hole. The only way to get a good job is through networking. So use LinkedIn to find networking groups in the industry you want to go into and dive in. Most people want to help you out in finding a job, but you'll have to get out of your comfort zone.

Response by CPL Brandon Kling made Oct 25 at 2015 9:43 AM

2015-10-25T09:43:43-04:00

Usajobs.gov, state and city websites. You'd be amazed at the amount of jobs you can find in those locations. Some might require you to move though.

Response by Scott Bernstein made Dec 4 at 2015 7:21 AM

2015-12-04T07:21:51-05:00

http://www.americanboiuntyhunter.org

Response by SPC Joseph Plunkett made Dec 4 at 2015 3:29 PM

2015-12-04T15:29:49-05:00

I started with job boards, monster, careerbuilder, and indeed. Also creating a linkedin.com account is a good idea as well.

Response by MSG James Douglas made Dec 5 at 2015 12:51 PM

2015-12-05T12:51:43-05:00

You will obtain valuable out processing job outlook experience when you are getting out of the military....i.e. ACAP, SFL

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Dec 5 at 2015 3:24 PM

2015-12-05T15:24:59-05:00

I would start with the network around you. Just in this thread, you'll find several successful veterans getting it done in the civilian sector. And I bet over half will send you personal email addresses to help review a resume & get the ball rolling on a job.
My advice would be:
1. Find out what you're passionate about.
2. Draw up your ideal job and industry you want to work in.
3. Start connecting with veterans & civilians in that space.
4. Ask questions about what it takes to succeed there and if you need any additional certifications or training.
5. Let your network personally know what you'd like to do for next steps.

You'll be surprised what job opportunities show up that weren't listed on any job board.

Response by SrA David Steyer made Dec 6 at 2015 2:26 PM

2015-12-06T14:26:45-05:00

There is hirepurpose.com but depending on your area it can be awesome or it can be garbage. My area is really hit or miss.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2015 11:18 PM

2015-12-08T23:18:26-05:00

I would say it would depend on the industry. One thing we get wrong so much is thinking that there is just one great resource that will guarantee that you will be fine. I think the best thing you can do is just look everyone. Ask people what they and what it takes to do that. Network is great also. I have found that some of those that are supposed to be experts in helping you with a job are anything but that. They work to find work but they really don't do more than to get you a lead. The worst ones are the ones in college. They will push you into a degree that will get you a good job. But so many times that job market is flooded and you will get a good job but when there are no jobs.

I have done a few different things but I end up with going back to the military. I am active duty Guard and that is about the best thing that I have found.

Response by PO2 Michael Henry made Dec 15 at 2015 10:23 PM

2015-12-15T22:23:37-05:00

Look for head hunters like Orion International, Bradley-Morris, etc. There are organizations that put military personnel in jobs. Get a profile on Linkedin, find family, friends, coworkers on that site and establish connections with people they know. Keep your profile relevant. Use your security clearance. Look for local census jobs when they come up in your area. They are Federal jobs and require Federal background checks, they may be temporary but having that on a resume won't hurt, it's a Federal job. I was hired for about 2 months but I also had a 2nd job, in school FT and physical therapy from an auto accident. Something had to give. My second job was a student job on campus, working in IT. My degree is an AAS Network Administration.

Response by SFC Joseph Motes made Feb 4 at 2016 10:28 PM

2016-02-04T22:28:50-05:00

http://www.aetna.com

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Learn the benefits of joining Aetna for individuals and families and learn about the benefits for employers, healthcare providers, and insurance producers.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2016 3:02 PM

2016-09-15T15:02:36-04:00

Cecilia, I use Indeed, LinkedIn and have reached out to a number of veterans organizations that help find employment for veterans. Remember each state has different organizations and assets to help you.