DEPPER's trying to get jobs while waiting for bootcamp

[Ellen B]

I'm not sure if any of you Mom's out there have a DEPPER who cannot get a job to save his life, while waiting to leave for boot camp...My son is so frustrated, He's trying to get a part-time job anywhere, but as soon as the Employer hears he's headed into the Navy in December, they refuse him the job. His recruiter says, unfortunately, this is quite common. I feel it's discrimination. Even college kids get summer jobs. Anyone have any advice? I've had to assume paying his bills and it's not easy!!!

[JM-ISmomx2]

I'm all for integrity, but don't tell them. I know a contridiction, but look at it this way. December is when a lot of kids are looking for seasonal work so they shouldn't have a problem replacing him. He will be there at least 6 months. Some people, not going in to the service, don't work in one place for that long. I believe if your son gives 110% while employed he has fulfilled his obligation. The fact that he is scheduled to join the Navy is as they say, on a need to know basis. You are correct about the college kids, there shouldn't be a difference and the fact that our sons and daughters will be serving their country should urge them to be more flexible. I hope this helps, I know it is only my opinion. JM

[Ellen B]

Duly noted and greatly appreciated!

[Fleur de lis Mom]

He may need to look for something seasonal. Lifeguard, other summer type work. Also apply to locally owned businesses, they may be more understanding. This sounds odd - but maybe try a daycare. Sometimes they want guys to work with the school age kids. My daughter works at a day care - half day lifeguarding and half day with the school age kids. They take field trips etc in the summer. She is also working a retail plant nursery on Saturday mornings, it was a seasonal job for the spring that is just on Saturdays now. I know several 19 & 20 yr olds that can't find a job or they are not being given enough hours to pay their bills.

[Ellen B]

Since we live in the Poconos, every season is seasonal work. Unfortunately, many people like you and me have filled these positions, leaving very little for even college kids looking for Summer work. This economy certainly doesn't help this situation. Many "adults" here have 2-3 part time jobs to pay the bills, leaving very few jobs for those like my son. I'm sure if he had known sooner than later when he was leaving for the Navy he would have applied for a Lifeguard position. We work here on a lottery system for Summer positions, but those applications have a January deadline...way before he even considered the Navy. So, we're a little 'stuck between a rock and a hard place.' He's always searching the want ads. Thank you for your input. I do appreciate it!

[pench]

Ellen, your son can try collecting scrap metal if he has access to a truck, i know you wouldnt think that would be much money for him but you would be surpised. my son doesnt leave for boot camp until Oct. and that is how he keeps his money flow. my son was able to collect over 6,000. in under 3 months. for him to get started he just needs to print out some signs stating he will pick up old washers, driers, mowers, tractors anything made of metal. he can alo collect old cars (they bring more but you need a trailer) also, aluminum is good money to not cans but big pieces of aluminum. and copper wire. these things you have to bring to a differant place sometimes but thy are easy enough to find in the phone book an usually close by. my son kills me because he will go out and work for an hour or so and come home with a couple hundred in his pocket lol. I hope ths helps.

[Ellen B]

While this is an excellent idea, it's a field here in PA taken over by many laid-off construction workers. But, thank you very much for the suggestion. I'm glad your son is doing well in this way.

[alemap118]

My son is in the same boat. He had a job all lined up where he worked before and then when he told them that he was now on call and could leave at anytime he was turned away. He says he dosent want to not disclose his situation. He doesnt feel right about it but now he is startingto rethink it. He is even looking at throwing newspapers. Thankfully his bills are not that great, so I am waiting for the call to help him out. And I will gladly do so if it means me getting a second job.. lol

[Ellen B]

I totally understand...My son refuses to NOT tell them. I mean, I cannot fault him for being truthful, God bless him, but he's had many doors shut in his face. He has spoken to his recruiter, but there's really nothing available as far as a paying job. Right now, he's going into the recruiter's office 3 times a week to assist with office work and computer input. He just prays every day he gets the call.

[Fleur de lis Mom]

Here is another suggestion - ask the recruiter. They may know someone that is willing to hire a future sailor. It might be a parent of a current sailor or a Navy vet. My father was in the Marine Reserves, he loved to hire someone with military experience. He hired several college students in ROTC and several employees were in the National Guard.

[Ellen B]

There's a wonderful store in our local mall called Harleyville,USA. Their entire staff is military. Unfortunately, there aren't any openings, just a waiting list.

[Ellen B]

Update-He finally landed a Target job!

[JM-ISmomx2]

Yeah, Ellen that's great!!