Microsoft Corporation recently announced an initiative to create a coalition of public, private and nonprofit organizations in order to give veterans and their spouses the skills and resources needed to be successful in today's civilian workforce. The initiative is part of the Microsoft Elevate America program.

As part of the effort, Microsoft will contribute $2 million in cash and up to $6 million in software during the next two years to support programs for members of the armed services and their spouses who are separating from the military and reintegrating into their civilian communities.

The initiative is intended to support active duty service members who are transitioning out of the military and members of the National Guard and Reserves returning to civilian jobs. The company will use a competitive funding process to award cash, software and other resources to eligible organizations, including veterans service organizations, workforce agencies, community colleges and other nonprofit organizations.

The initiative will help with technology skills training, job placement, career counseling and other support services, such as childcare, transportation and housing. The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is the first organization to join the coalition.

"In the coming years, a significant number of veterans will seek civilian employment opportunities," Paul Rieckhoff, founder and executive director of IAVA, said. "Microsoft's new initiative provides veterans with the tools to successfully transition to new careers and contribute to economic growth in an especially tough economy.

"Microsoft has been the leader in the technology revolution, and we appreciate its strength and commitment to our returning heroes," he continued. "The company is sending a message to veterans nationwide that it has their back. IAVA is excited to be a part of this coalition, and we look forward to working with Microsoft to make a historic impact."

The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there are about 185,000 unemployed Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans. Currently, the unemployment rate among those veterans is 20 percent higher than the overall unemployment rate for non-veterans.

"Our servicemen and women are amazing leaders, but to be able to compete in the tough job market when they return from duty, many of them need access to technology training," Pamela Passman, corporate vice president of Microsoft Global Corporate Affairs, said. "We are bringing together organizations and companies that can combine their competencies and resources with ours to make the greatest possible impact to help veterans and their spouses."