San Diego veterans step toward higher education

SAN DIEGO – Support the Enlisted Project (STEP), a San Diego-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit announces its Second Annual Cammies to College which is a major college expo and education street fair for the benefit of active duty military, veterans and their family members interested in gaining information regarding higher education options in Southern California. The event will be free to attendees and held at Liberty Station Conference Center, (2600 Lanning Road San Diego, CA 92106) on July 30 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“We are trying to bring every possible resource together to serve those having questions about their education options and wishing to pursue higher education. San Diego has some of the finest colleges in the nation, and all are fully supporting this event to help our military and veterans make informed decisions about their futures,” said STEP president and co-founder Tony Teravainen.

The event will feature a wide breadth of educational opportunities for attendees to explore. There are 22 schools confirmed, including four-year traditional universities, community colleges, and several specialized technical degree/certificate based programs. Also, there are more than 20 support agencies that can assist active duty and veteran members during this time.

"We really want to help holistically bridge information gaps that have the potential to derail the success of our veterans,” said Teravainen, “That is why we have invited many other organizations, like the Department of Veterans Affairs, to discuss educational benefits and local nonprofits focused on the long-term success of veteran families.”

Families are encouraged to attend; and there is a free ‘kid’s zone’ as well as free food at the event.

“We encourage anyone contemplating their future after the military to attend and take advantage of the amazing resources available at this expo,” said Teravainen.

If interested in attending visit http://www.stepsocal.org/cammies-to-college. Registration is preferred, but not required.

STEP is seeking community partners (corporate or individual) that are interested in participating through sponsorship or volunteerism. If interested, they can contact [email protected].