TYSONS Va.– The PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes  has awarded Military Heroes Grants of $50,000 each to Four Block and Operation New Uniform (ONU) to support their vital Veteran Career Readiness Programs. Both organizations are dedicated to empowering active-duty service members and veterans to translate their military experience into purposeful, stable civilian careers, the foundation said.

“Effectively championing our service members means planning for a brighter future, not just recognizing their past,” PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes President Andrea McCarren said in a statement. “We are honored to support Four Block and Operation New Uniform as they empower service members and veterans through career transition assistance.”

Four Block’s flagship 10-week veteran Career Readiness Program provides critical skills, resources and relationship-building opportunities for veterans to make informed post-military career decisions. Participants gain actionable career search plans, the ability to effectively articulate their military expertise, insight into corporate culture and access to a growing professional network, the foundation said. 

“This grant gives us the ability to increase our impact among former service members by transforming the military transition process,” Four Block Founder & President Michael Abrams said in a statement. “With the PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes’ support, we can honor our service members’ past and serve their future.”

Operational Readiness

“ONU’s Career Readiness Program combines innovative training, one-on-one coaching, and mentorship to prepare participants for the civilian workforce. The program equips servicemembers and veterans with the skills, confidence, and resources necessary to succeed—helping them translate their military experience effectively for civilian employers,” the organization stated.

It added that graduates from ONU earn an average annual salary of $94,000, significantly improving their economic stability. To date, ONU has served over 700 servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses nationwide.

“We are incredibly grateful to the PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes for supporting Operation New Uniform’s life-changing Career Readiness Program,” said Operation New Uniform CEO & Co-Founder Michele McManamon.  “The PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes partnership empowers veterans and military spouses to build stable, meaningful careers—and transforms lives in the process. We thank them for standing with us in service to those who have served.”