Within the next few weeks, the Fauquier County Department of Economic Development will sign a memorandum of support with Marine Corps Base Quantico, pledging to provide special services for transitioning service members. According to Parisa Fetherson, program director for the MCBQ Personal and Professional Development section, “all local chambers of commerce do the same [provide services for veterans], though not all have something in writing.”

“Fauquier County wants to put services in writing and pledge to offer them” so veterans will know what is available, Fetherson said. Part of the role of the Personal and Professional Development staff is to figure out what and where the resources are in the local community. The FCDED is “just one of the agencies who are committed to assisting transitioning service members,” added Fetherson.

Though the agreement is not yet finalized, FCDED may offer services such as employment counseling, job placement and small-business ownership mentoring and training. Networking opportunities and job fairs are also likely to be offered.

Because this is actually the first time there has been a formal agreement, according to Fetherson’s recollection, there may be a signing ceremony or other special event marking the occasion.

“This is a good faith agreement” and shows the county is serious about supporting veterans, said Fetherson.

— Writer: ebaker@quanticosentryonline.com