Veterans Service Organization Leader Joins Wounded Warrior Project
New EVP Will Drive Economic Empowerment Programs for this Generation of Wounded Veterans
Jacksonville, FL (November 5, 2014) – Peter S. Gaytan has a new mission: to guide injured veterans of this generation to success with education, training, and connections that will lead to rewarding civilian careers. As the new executive vice president of Economic Empowerment, Gaytan will steer Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) programs that focus on building warriors’ educational and professional foundations.
Most recently Gaytan served as the executive director of the American Legion, Washington, D.C., where he was responsible for oversight of all programs and policies relative to the delivery of earned benefits for veterans. Gaytan worked with organization leadership on programs that sought to identify and address medical appointment delays and worked with the Department of Veterans Affairs on solutions to access. Gaytan also oversaw organization efforts to increase the recognition of military training, education and experience by state and federal licensing agencies to improve the employment opportunities of transitioning veterans.
“Peter’s experience and leadership with veterans issues makes him a valuable addition to the team,” said Steve Nardizzi, chief executive offer (CEO) of Wounded Warrior Project. “Economic empowerment is a critical tool in the reintegration process to those who have served their country. We know that selfsufficiency, service, and the ability to take care of themselves and their families are integral to warriors’ self-worth. Helping these veterans find their new role in life through education programs or a fulfilling civilian career is a top priority for WWP.”
“My desire to take veterans service to the next level is what led me to Wounded Warrior Project,” said Gaytan. “WWP is innovating and serving veterans in ways no other organization has in this sector. I am excited to apply my 20 years’ experience to help us reach our economic empowerment goals including the placement of 10,000 wounded veterans in civilian jobs by 2017.”
Gaytan’s career has centered around serving his country and veterans. Following his service in the U.S. Air Force, Gaytan continued to focus on the military and veteran service, holding various positions at the American Veterans National Headquarters and the Paralyzed Veterans of America.
In his new role at WWP, Gaytan will oversee the organization’s Economic Empowerment programs, including TRACK, Education Initiatives, Transition Training Academy and Warriors to Work. These programs provide numerous paths on which injured service members and their caregivers can pursue educational and training opportunities, leading to enriching careers and meaningful employment.
About Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project is recognizing its ten-year anniversary, reflecting on a decade of service and reaffirming its commitment to serving injured veterans for their lifetime. The mission of Wounded Warrior Project is to honor and empower Wounded Warriors. WWP currently serves over 59,000 warriors and nearly 8,500 family members through its 20 unique programs and services. The purpose of WWP is to raise awareness and to enlist the public’s aid for the needs of injured service members, to help injured servicemen and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. WWP is a national organization headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. To get involved and learn more, visit woundedwarriorproject.org.