Question 1

What is the Onward Ops Program?

Accepted Answer

Onward Ops provides support to active duty service members as they navigate their way back into civilian life. We connect new Veterans with trained sponsors from their destination community, focusing on the 12 months between leaving the military and reintegrating into civilian life. We offer the tools to achieve their goals and a supportive sponsor to guide them through the process. Our program is created by Vets, for Vets.

Question 2

Who is eligible to participate in the Onward Ops Program?

Accepted Answer

All currently serving and recently separated veterans (within the last 90 days), including Reserve and National Guard members are eligible to apply for the Onward Ops Program.

Question 3

How secure is my Personal Information within Onward Ops?

Accepted Answer

Onward Ops offers the best data security and storage services with Google Cloud. Rest assured that no personal information is shared or accessed without the user's consent. We never sell identifiable data, and our system is fully auditable. Google Cloud is DOD certified to IL-4 (Impact Level 4) and implements assured controls and support. Our system meets or exceeds Army Google services, ensuring the highest level of security for your data.

Question 4

Where can I find additional information about becoming a partner?

Accepted Answer

Contact our team at team@onwardops.org to explore partnership opportunities.

Question 5

What does ETS stand for?

Accepted Answer

ETS means Expiration of Term of Service

Question 6

Is The ETS Sponsorship Program a 501c3?

Accepted Answer

We are federally registered with the IRS as a 501(c)(4) tax-exempt social welfare organization. We are not organized for profit, nor are we a charity. ETS-SP operates exclusively to promote social welfare for transitioning service members, Veterans, and the communities where they live.

Question 7

Do you sell data?

Accepted Answer

We believe that service members and Veterans should have complete control over their data. As such, we have a strict policy against selling data, sending spam, or sharing personal information without the service member's explicit consent.

Question 8

Does the program cost anything?

Accepted Answer

The program is available at no cost to eligible transitioning service members and veterans.

Question 9

Why should I enroll?

Accepted Answer

At Onward Ops, we recognize the difficulties that come with transitioning from military service to civilian life. That's why our program is tailored to assist veterans in critical areas such as employment, housing, education, and sharing experiences. Our primary objective is to help you achieve your full potential. Upon signing up, you'll complete an enrollment form that the Onward Ops dashboard will use to personalize your tasks and transition needs. Once enrollment is complete, you'll receive a free Gmail account with the format of firstname.lastname@onwardops.org and access to a complimentary Google Workspace account that includes Sheets, Docs, Google Meet, and Google Drive.

Question 10

Who can have a sponsor?

Accepted Answer

Any service members/Veterans who are transitioning to a civilian community.

Question 11

Can I request a sponsor later, even if I enroll in the self-guided program?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can request a sponsor at a later time, even if you initially requested to participate solo.

Question 12

What if I am undecided about my final destination?

Accepted Answer

If you're unsure of where you're headed, don't worry. We've got you covered. We'll connect you with a sponsor who can help guide you along the way. We'll connect you with a local sponsor upon selecting your new community.

Question 13

Why should I have a sponsor?

Accepted Answer

To make a smooth transition to a new community, it can be helpful to connect with someone who can share knowledge about the area, develop relationships and engage in shared networks, gain insight into resources to help you thrive, and make the transition less stressful for you and your family.

Question 14

How will the sponsor work with me?

Accepted Answer

Sponsors will contact you regularly via email, text, or phone to share their knowledge of the local area and available resources. They will help you identify goals and develop action plans to achieve them.

Question 15

How can I be sure that my sponsor and I will work well together?

Accepted Answer

Our VA-certified sponsors work hand in hand with Service members, Veterans and their families, and the Onward Ops team to provide assistance every step of the way. The key to our success is building a strong relationship between you and your sponsor, and we are committed to ensuring that your relationship thrives!

Question 16

Who can be a sponsor?

Accepted Answer

Anyone, whether military or civilian, who cares about our service members and veterans, and has the availability to dedicate their time, is welcome to participate.

Question 17

What does the training look like?

Accepted Answer

All potential sponsors will complete certification training sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The training is available in three formats: Cohort Training, Daylong Training, and Accelerated Training. The training ensures that sponsors meet national standards and that training is consistent across the communities they serve.

Question 18

What are the sponsor's responsibilities?

Accepted Answer

The Onward Ops program offers unique support to transitioning service members, with a key component being regular contact and guidance from sponsors. These sponsors work with veterans to identify goals, develop action plans, and share their knowledge of the local area and available resources. The effectiveness of the program is attributed to the training and compassion exhibited by these sponsors.

Question 19

Who will help me on this journey?

Accepted Answer

As a sponsor of a transitioning service member, the journey can seem daunting. However, With Onward Ops' leadership and regional contacts, you have a strong support system to guide you along the way. They offer helpful tips on relationship-building and are available to provide guidance throughout the entire transitioning process.