Efforts to help military veterans find work in the private sector continue locally. The “Next Level Veterans Initiative,” is a recently created state program to help pair veterans with open jobs. Officials with the program will be in southeastern Indiana over the next few days.

Rep. Jim Lucas, a Seymour Republican, says the program unites public and private organizations in order to employ more military personnel leaving service and retain veterans who are already in Indiana. He adds that Next Level Veterans focuses on connecting veterans with high-wage career opportunities.

Lucas says that a new website provides a one-stop-shop for veterans looking for jobs and training, as well as information on a new veterans-based mortgage program, which helps veterans find affordable housing.

Events are being held Saturday during the 21st annual Indiana Icebreaker at Brownstown Speedway and during the St. Patrick’s Day Dance at the North Vernon Moose Family Center. Another event will be held Tuesday at the Jackson County Public Library in Seymour during the Spring Break Variety Show.

Through the Next Level Veterans initiative, Lucas says that those who serve our country will be better connected to employment opportunities upon discharge. For more information, visit in.gov/veterans.