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Alexander Baker

Meet Alexander Baker: STEM Intern Managing Digital Operations and Community Engagement

Hello! My name is Alexander Baker, and I’m excited to be a STEM Intern at Project: Return2Work (R2W). I am currently a rising junior at the University of Colorado Boulder, studying Computer Science.

At R2W, my role focuses on keeping our organization in touch with both clients and the wider community. I manage our website, sharing upcoming events and news stories that showcase the journeys of the people we serve. A big part of my work involves managing talent pools on StaffCV, our applicant tracking system. I help organize candidate profiles and connect job seekers with suitable opportunities.

I also actively take part in R2W’s heartbeats and workshops. These events offer valuable chances to connect directly with clients and see the real impact of our work. They have deepened my appreciation for R2W’s mission and shown me how meaningful this work is.

Working with R2W has shown me how technology can serve as a powerful tool for social good. Every website update, talent pool improvement, and community interaction helps individuals rebuild their careers and regain their independence. I see the clear link between the technical work I do and the lives it affects, whether it’s helping someone find information about our services or organizing candidate data so the right person finds the right opportunity.

Alexander Baker

Alexander Baker – STEM Intern
“I’m a driven and curious student who thrives at solving tough problems and making a difference in the world through my work. I’m impressed with R2W’s mission, and I am privileged to be a member of a team that serves veterans through impactful work.”

By Alexander Baker, STEM Intern

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Return To Work Inc. (R2W): Restoring Purpose Through Employment 

Return To Work Inc. (R2W) is a nonprofit organization committed to helping veterans, military spouses, and people with disabilities find meaningful employment and vocational rehabilitation. Since 1998, R2W has been a national leader in using technology-driven assessments, personalized career matching, and direct recruiting services to empower individuals to re-enter the workforce with confidence and dignity. 

Founded by Rob Brazell, an engineer turned social entrepreneur, R2W was born from a deeply personal journey of recovery and reinvention. Rob’s experience overcoming life-threatening illness and later traumatic injury gave him a unique understanding of the challenges faced by those trying to return to work after life-altering events. His vision was clear: create a system that not only supports people in finding jobs but also helps them rediscover their sense of purpose. 

Why R2W Matters 

The need for R2W’s services is more urgent than ever. According to recent data: 

  • Over 2 million veterans are receiving disability compensation from the VA. 
  • Many face higher unemployment rates than their civilian peers, especially those with service-connected disabilities. 
  • Military spouses experience job instability due to frequent relocations and limited access to career development resources. 

R2W addresses these challenges by offering: 

  • Vocational assessments tailored to individual strengths and interests 
  • Job placement services that connect clients with employers who value their unique skills 
  • Supportive coaching and rehabilitation programs that build confidence and resilience 

Join the Mission 

Whether you’re a veteran seeking a new career, a professional looking to give back, or a supporter who believes in the power of work—R2W invites you to be part of the solution. 

Together, we can build a future where every veteran and person with a disability has the opportunity to thrive through meaningful work.

 

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Summer Social Media Strategy: The R2W Difference in Action 

This summer, Project: Return to Work Inc. (R2W) has launched a bold new social media strategy designed to deepen community engagement and amplify our mission to help disabled civilians, injured veterans, and their spouses find meaningful employment. With a proud history dating back to 1998, R2W has served over 10,000 Americans, and we’re now setting our sights on reaching 1 million clients within the next decade. 

Daily Digital Engagement 

Our strategy centers on daily communication with our audience through: 

  • Video content captured at live events using professional digital cameras and audio mics 
  • New articles published regularly on our website 
  • Labor market news and updates on vocational rehabilitation 
  • Mission-driven storytelling through interviews with partners like the Scottish Terrier Kennel Club of Greater Denver and local community members 

We currently post on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram, and plan to expand to TikTok as we build our short-form video library. Our content is designed to reflect the R2W Difference—a combination of advanced technologies and compassionate, skilled staff offering services free of charge, thanks to generous grants and donations. 

Early Results & Growth 

Though we’re less than a month into this strategy, the impact is already clear: 

  • LinkedIn: 
  • Follower growth rate up 50%, now averaging 34 new followers per month 
  • Daily page views up 36.5% 
  • Unique visitors up 22.4% 
  • Impressions up a staggering 454.6% 
  • Facebook & Instagram: 
  • Daily reach between 158–456 people 
  • Using Meta Business Suite to expand reach and engagement 

Integrating Fundraising & Community Events 

We’ve recently registered with the PayPal Giving Fund, streamlining our fundraising efforts and integrating them into our weekly Job Workshops (Fridays at 3:30 PM—link available on our events page) and monthly Heartbeat Events, including the upcoming dog show in Greeley on August 15th. 

R2W Programs & Vision 

Our programs include: 

  • Direct Recruiting & Service Learning Apprenticeships 
  • Mentorship & STEM Internships 
  • R2W House & R2W Village—spaces dedicated to work therapy and veteran support 
  • Research & Development—pursuing scientific studies to measure and improve our impact 

We are actively spinning off client services to Service Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses (SDVOBs) as part of our strategic plan to scale and serve more people. 

By Raghav Singh, Lead Administrative Assistant

 

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Raghav Singh: A Technical Consultant’s Mission at Project: Return to Work 

Raghav Singh, a data analyst with a knack for storytelling and a deep-seated belief in giving back, found his true calling at Project: Return to Work Inc. (R2W). Having navigated various professional landscapes, from the intricate data pipelines of a startup to the complex systems of atmospheric research, nothing resonated with him quite like the mission of R2W: re-engaging veterans, especially injured military service members and their spouses, disabled civilians, and diverse communities by helping them find productive and fulfilling jobs. 

“We owe veterans a debt to society that we don’t always live up to,” Raghav often reflected, a sentiment that fueled his every effort as a Technical Consultant at R2W’s Boulder, CO (remote) office. He understood that R2W, with its long and proud history dating back to 1998 and its impressive track record of helping over 10,000 Americans get back to work, was a beacon of hope. They leveraged advanced technologies and a genuinely caring staff, offering client services free of charge thanks to generous grants and donations. 

Raghav managed a dynamic team of seven, a crucial cog in R2W’s ambitious vision to serve one million clients within a decade. His team was the backbone, handling everything from the ATS system and job listings to grant research, web development, SEO, social media campaigns, content gathering, content creation, and the intricate logistics for every live event. 

One of his proudest achievements recently had been the launch of a social media campaign. It was more than just posts and likes; it was about building a bridge to their audience. The results spoke for themselves: a remarkable 20% increase in page views over just two months. This wasn’t a fleeting success; it was the foundation for something more profound. “We’ve just started to regularly communicate with our audience and integrate them into our live events,” Raghav explained, his eyes alight with enthusiasm. “Now, we have so many opportunities to engage the community.” These engagements were vital, especially as R2W looked to its strategic plan of spinning off client services to multiple Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (SDVOBs) through initiatives like the R2W Village incubator. 

His days were a whirlwind of activity. He’d start by reviewing the analytics dashboards he’d meticulously crafted, tracking the impact of their digital outreach and the efficiency of their client services. He’d then dive into grant research, identifying opportunities like the MAP EJ and Albertsons grants, which he’d successfully submitted, collectively requesting over a million dollars in funding. These funds were critical for R2W’s various programs, including Tier 1 and 2 Direct Recruiting, the deeper work therapy programs at R2W House, and the vital Research and Development initiatives aimed at empirically determining their impact. 

Raghav also dedicated significant time to mentoring. He had onboarded and managed six STEM Interns, guiding them through the complexities of vocational rehabilitation technology and instilling in them the same passion he felt for R2W’s mission. He saw himself not just as a manager, but as a facilitator of growth, both for his team and for the veterans they served. 

The challenges were real, of course. The R2W House in Florida, a crucial part of their Tier 3&4 work therapy programs, had been damaged by Hurricane Ian, and repairs were a constant concern. The Colorado house also needed attention. But Raghav and his team tackled these obstacles with the same dedication they brought to every aspect of their work. 

As the sun set over the Rocky Mountains, Raghav would often reflect on his journey. He had built custom dashboards for C-suites, analyzed complex financial data, and even developed applications that automated intake processes. But the work at Project: Return to Work was different. It was about tangible impact, about helping individuals reclaim their lives, and about honoring a debt he deeply felt society owed. Every line of code, every social media post, every grant application was a step towards their vision of serving one million clients within a decade, and Raghav Singh was proud to be at the heart of it.

Raghav Singh
– Lead Administrative Assistant
“As a Business Intelligence Developer with three years of experience and a Bachelor’s in Information Science, I transform complex data into actionable insights. I’m passionate about making a meaningful impact, particularly in empowering veterans, disabled civilians, and diverse communities, through my work with Project: Return2Work.”

By Raghav Singh, Lead Administrative Assistant

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🐾✨ Yin & Yang Shine Bright at Castle Rock! ✨🐾 

We’re bursting with pride as our beloved mascots, Yin (Bilbo) and Yang (Olive), brought home new ribbons from the Castle Rock Dog Show! 🏆🐶 Under the expert care of Anell Henderson and with the incredible support of the Scottish Terrier Club of Greater Denver, these two stars continue to amaze us. 

But their impact goes far beyond the show ring. At Project: Return To Work (R2W), Yin and Yang are more than just champions—they’re healers, companions, and symbols of hope. 💙 

Their calming presence brings comfort to our veterans and job seekers with disabilities, helping create a space of healing, growth, and connection. Whether they’re greeting guests or offering a quiet moment of peace, they embody the heart of our mission: compassion, dedication, and excellence. 

👉 Ready to make a difference or take the next step in your career? Visit return2work.org to apply today—whether you’re looking for meaningful employment or want to help others find their path forward. Let’s build a stronger, more inclusive workforce together. 🐾💼 

#R2W #YinAndYang #TherapyDogs #CastleRockDogShow #VeteranSupport #DisabilityInclusion #HealingThroughCompanionship #DogsofInstagram #ServiceWithHeart #JoinUs 

By Nathan Mergesa, STEM Intern

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Meet Farid: STEM Intern Using Tech Skills to Transform Lives at Project: Return2Work

Hello! My name is Farid Ahmadov and I have been a STEM Intern at Project: Return2Work since January of 2025. I am a current senior at the University of Colorado Boulder pursuing a B.S. in Computer Science. My current goal is to land a stable software job where I can put my skills to use in building and improving software to make people’s lives easier.

Working at Project: Return2Work has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only have I developed valuable technical and professional skills, but I’ve also gained a deeper appreciation for how technology can be used to empower and uplift those who need it most.

My work has focused on the StaffCV system as well as outreach. I help guide job seekers through the system so that they can quickly be set up with an employer. I reach out and keep in touch with job seekers to make sure that they have all that they need to successfully gain employment.

Furthermore, working and helping disabled veterans, among other classes of society that need help with employment, has been both humbling and rewarding. Getting to help people who need our help has always been a goal of mine, as I have always looked for ways to contribute back to society.

I look forward to continuing my work with Project: Return2Work to help people who need our help.

Farid Ahmadov – STEM Intern
“I am a current fourth year student at the University of Colorado Boulder with a passion for helping people. R2W has been a great opportunity for me to explore this passion, as well as being privileged to work with an excellent team that shares my passion.”

By Farid Ahmadov, STEM Intern

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Scotties, Service, and Support: A Winning Day at the Castle Rock Dog Show

The Scottish Terrier Club of Greater Denver recently competed in the Castle Rock Dog Show with our beautiful Scottish Terrier mascots, who receive looks wherever they go. This dog show was not only an opprotunity to showcase our mascots but also to draw attention to our cause here at R2W. We work closely with The Scottish Terrier Club, and it is always a pleasure to collaborate with individuals who are so willing to support our mission, helping not only military veterans but also all types of citizens struggling to find employment.

Their love for our mascots, along with their continued support of our mission is truly remarkable. The club hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including seasonal meetups, dog-friendly outings, breed education sessions, and community fundraisers. These gatherings offer a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where Scotties (and their people) can socialize, play, and build lasting friendships. In addition to social events, the club also supports Scottish Terrier rescue efforts, fosters public awareness, and shares helpful resources for grooming, training, and breed health.

Membership is open to all Scottie lovers—whether you own one, hope to in the future, or simply admire the breed’s bold personality. Joining the club is a great way to meet other local enthusiasts, get involved in fun and meaningful events, and support the well-being of Scottish Terriers throughout Colorado. To learn more or get involved, visit https://stcgdenver.org.

Meet Yin and Yang

Meet Yin and Yang, our spirited Scottish Terriers! These two charming pups are not only adorable but also expert demo dogs helping groomers of all levels learn the essential techniques of hand stripping and pet clipping especially tailored for Scotties. Yin, with her calm and steady nature, is the perfect partner for learning precision and control. Yang brings the spark, showing how to manage energy and movement while grooming. Together, they make the perfect teaching team! To keep Yin and Yang looking and feeling their best, we’ve put together a wishlist of grooming tools, treats, and essentials that support their health, comfort, and performance. Whether you’re a fan, a fellow groomer, or someone who just loves Scotties, your support means the world to us and to them!

Support Yin and Yang:

Amazon Wishlist

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Annel Henderson: Breeding Champions and Igniting Hope with Project: Return to Work

In the vibrant world of dog shows, where precision grooming meets poised athleticism, Annel Henderson of LocherB Kennels stands out not just for her champion Scottish Terriers but for their heartwarming role as mascots for Project: Return to Work (R2W). With recent victories at the Roaring Fork Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Show, where Olive (aka “Yang”) clinched Best Puppy and Bilbo (aka “Yin”) earned Best Opposite Sex, Annel and her furry companions are proving that success in the ring can go paw-in-paw with profound community impact.
 

Annel’s journey into the competitive dog show circuit wasn’t an immediate leap, but a carefully groomed path. Initially, her involvement with LocherB Kennels was more casual. It wasn’t until she encountered a truly gifted groomer that her passion for presenting top-quality Scottish Terriers truly blossomed. This pivotal connection inspired Annel to delve deeper into the intricacies of the dog show world. She soon became an active participant, joining the Plum Creek Kennel Club before becoming a dedicated member of the Scottish Terrier Kennel Club of Greater Denver (https://stcgdenver.org/).
 

Through her growing involvement with the STKCGD, Annel met fellow enthusiasts who would further shape her kennel’s destiny. Notably, her connection with the Schaffers led her to acquire a foundation bitch – a significant step towards breeding the champions that would one day capture hearts both in the show ring and at R2W events. This lineage eventually brought forth special dogs like Abbie, who, as Annel proudly recalls, made her mark early on with impressive wins, including an award in the Winners Bitch class at the Chicago Specialty, followed by a Reserve Winners placement.
 

Today, the undeniable stars of LocherB Kennels, Olive and Bilbo, serve as the beloved mascots for Project: Return to Work. Their charming personalities and show-stopping presence bring an extra layer of joy and engagement to R2W’s crucial mission of helping disabled civilians, injured veterans, and their spouses find meaningful employment. Whether at a recent R2W event in Castle Rock or making headlines with their latest wins, Olive and Bilbo symbolize the resilience and spirit that R2W champions every day.
 

Annel Henderson and LocherB Kennels exemplify how passion, dedication, and a love for animals can extend far beyond personal achievement, creating a ripple effect of inspiration and support for a cause as vital as Project: Return to Work.

Annel Henderson

Annel Henderson

By Raghav Singh, Lead Administrative Assistant

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Nathan Mergesa

Meet Nathan Megersa: STEM Intern Building Bridges Between Tech and Service

Hello everyone! My name is Nathan Megersa, and I’m honored to be a STEM Intern at Project: Return2Work (R2W). I’m currently a second-year Computer Science student at the University of Colorado Boulder, driven by a deep passion for technology and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the world. 

From a young age, I’ve always been curious about how things work—especially in the digital world. That curiosity evolved into a commitment to pursue a career in tech, where I can build solutions that empower people and improve lives. My ultimate goal is to become a software engineer who not only writes code but also writes change into the world. 

R2W has been a pivotal part of that journey. It’s more than just an internship—it’s a community that believes in second chances, growth, and purpose. Through R2W, I’ve gained hands-on experience with tools like StaffCV, learning how hiring platforms operate and how to manage applications effectively. But beyond the technical skills, I’ve grown in areas that are just as important—like communication, collaboration, and leadership. 

Working alongside my fellow STEM Interns and the dedicated R2W team has taught me the power of teamwork and the value of service. Whether we’re supporting veterans re-entering the workforce or helping job seekers find their next opportunity, I’ve seen firsthand how technology and compassion can come together to change lives. 

R2W has inspired me to keep striving, keep learning, and keep giving back. I’m proud to be part of a mission that uplifts others—and I’m excited to carry these lessons with me into the future.

Nathan Mergesa

Nathan Mergesa – STEM Intern
“I love to help others and make an impact on the community. And I’m happy to be able to do that by working with R2W, helping veterans and their families.”

By Nathan Megersa, STEM Intern

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Hiale Haile

Meet Hiale Haile: STEM Intern Making a Difference for Veteran Employment

My STEM internship has been a truly rewarding and impactful experience. It’s been a privilege to work with R2W and contribute to its inspiring mission: supporting disabled National Guard and veteran members, other disabled individuals, their spouses, and caretakers in re-entering the workforce. Providing a safe place for these individuals to transition into the job market is an incredible endeavor. Our summer goal of processing 1,000 applicants has highly motivated me to contribute as much as possible to R2W’s success. 

Through this internship, I’ve gained valuable skills. I’ve learned the StaffCV system for efficient applicant processing and have developed cold calling sales techniques by directly reaching out to companies via phone and email. This has taught me how to deliver a captivating, concise pitch and maintain a calm and comfortable demeanor, ensuring I respect their time. I’ve also become proficient in posting jobs and advertisements across various platforms. This internship has significantly enhanced both my soft and technical skills, providing a well-rounded set of experiences that will undoubtedly impact my future endeavors. 

Hiale Haile

Hiale Haile – STEM Intern
“R2W’s mission allows me to impact people’s lives directly, and that has always been a dream of mine. Because of R2W, I can now help those in need.”

By Hiale Haile, STEM Intern