Renew Crew Acknowledged For Compassion in Employing Veterans

During National Vocational Rehabilitation Week in October 2021, the Department of Veterans Affairs Central Iowa Health Care System sent a letter of acknowledgment and appreciation to Scott Sithonnorath, Anawim ReNew Crew Manager, regarding the work Anawim Housing's ReNew Crew has done to assist and retain Veterans in life-changing employment with Renew Crew.  Scott and the ReNew Crew team have made a conscious effort to employ Veterans by partnering with the Des Moines VA Hospital and their Vocational Rehabilitation Team and Therapeutic Supported Employment Services. 

Scott Sithonnorath shared: "We've hired several Veterans this year. Some have moved on to other opportunities to meet their needs but we still have a few on payroll. Some may see this (ReNew Crew) as just a job training program, but I believe it is more than that. We are helping restore people's dignity and self-esteem. I feel like we are providing hope. It is a wonderful feeling knowing that you are serving folks that have served for our country. This is big to me."

It brings us great pride to know we are able to help not only our communities most vulnerable, but those who have served our country. Congratulations to Scott and the Anawim Housing ReNew Crew for the wonderful work you do!

A few excerpts from the letter include: 

To Anawim Housing, 

We wish to express our gratitude to Anawim Housing and Scott Sithonnorath, who have helped to provide Veterans with life-changing employment! Our VA Employment Programs have greatly benefited from our relationship with Anawim Housing, one that began for us just recently, but will continue to assist many Veterans in their lives ahead...

At the Des Moines VA Hospital, we have found an exemplary ally in Anawim Housing. Your organization has done the remarkable by helping Veterans overcome their barriers and restart their lives with confidence and purpose. We realize that giving someone a much needed second chance is not always easy. However, Anawim Housing and Scott Sithonnorath have assisted so many who have needed help the most...

The job opportunities provided by your company has allowed Veterans to become heroes for what they overcome, and sometimes that first step is through employment, but even more so, finding that special partner as we have with Anawim Housing." 

Read the full letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs by clicking HERE. 

About ReNew Crew: 

ReNew Crew is a supportive employment social enterprise designed to immediately place Anawim Housing program participants into employment opportunities with few barriers. It mirrors the Housing First and harm reduction practices uses Anawim Housing agency wide. Individuals who have a desire to work do not have to advance through a series of classes or training programs. They are placed directly into the workforce and are supported in remaining employed. 

ReNew Crew provides apartment unit cleaning, painting, grounds keeping, and light maintenance. There is a shortage of workers trained to provide these services in our community and ReNew Crew is filling a gap in the market place.

Learn More about ReNew Crew by clicking HERE.