Prospective Sentinels of Freedom Candidates, 

At this time the application for the Bridge for Education program is closed for 2024. This page will be updated when the application reopens for future opportunities. 

If you wish to be notified by email when it is reopened please email Samantha Chapman at samanthac@sentinelsoffreedom.org

The Sentinels of Freedom Team 


WHAT IS SENTINELS OF FREEDOM?

Sentinels of Freedom is a national nonprofit organization that helps severely wounded post-9/11 veterans successfully transition to civilian life by providing comprehensive personal support. Our work helps these brave individuals complete their education, find career-focused employment, and gain financial independence. We complement their own individual drive, motivation, and positive attitude with meaningful assistance. Our support ranges from financial coaching to mentoring and career transition assistance. We help fill the gaps to ensure these brave individuals can achieve success in their post-military journey.

WHAT DOES THE SENTINEL'S BRIDGE FOR EDUCATION INCLUDE?

The Bridge for Education is a multi-year comprehensive support program that focuses support in the following areas:
 
EDUCATION
Veterans in our program are required to continue their formal education in line with their capabilities and goals. Education must be through a VA approved school.
 
MENTORING
We facilitate the identification of potential mentors and introductions to individuals who can assist in professional planning and personal and career development throughout the program term and as alumni.

CAREER & NETWORKING ASSISTANCE
During the program and as alumni, the Sentinels are presented with various networking opportunities to further their career path and can be introduced to prospective employers.

FINANCIAL COACHING & PLANNING
Free financial coaches and planners are available to each Sentinel. This can be by request or it may be required by SOF due to the financial circumstances of the individual. The planners will help the Sentinel to establish basic budgeting skills and learn how to build up their financial worth.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE SENTINEL'S BRIDGE FOR EDUCATION?

  • Member of any branch of the armed forces, active, guard or reserves who have been wounded or injured, in a combat or training related event post 9/11. 
  • Received a VA disability rating of 60% or higher as listed on their VA Rating Statement.
  • Have received or will be receiving an honorable discharge.
  • Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in full-time post-secondary education or vocational school. Must be a VA approved school (SOF can be flexible on the full-time requirement in certain circumstances, depending on the level of injury and ability to maintain full-time education).
  • Highly motivated individuals with the drive to reach personal, educational and career goals.
  • Must be willing to actively engage with mentor and networking opportunities provided by SOF.

Please note: In order to receive financial assistance you must no longer be receiving active duty pays and be honorably discharged from your time of service. Depending on the timing of your release from active duty or retirement we may be able to accept you before that date, but financial assistance will not start until your official discharge.

It is recommended that you are no more than 6 months out from your official discharge date when you apply. 

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