My Nonprofit Reviews

The Veterans Watchmaker Initiative is a non-profit that actually makes a difference in people's lives. I am a veteran and a student in the second of the classes VWI has offered to disabled veterans for no fee whatsoever. I have in the short amount of time (presently interrupted by the COVID-19 lockdown) learned more about myself than I can fathom. What is important is that I have learned more about the watchmaking industry than I thought possible. I look forward to learning more and taking up this fascinating career to earn a living. This school, this non-profit, takes no money from the veteran/student and provides an unparalleled education that seems to exceed the industry standard by teaching methods practiced by "old-schoolers". These are not my thoughts but those of competent professionals who have visited the school and let other know what is happening in Odessa, Delaware. As a disabled veteran, I have been offered the chance to return to work, and find again, a purpose to live along with the dignity of work in an industry that is once again growing following the so-called quartz watch revolution. It must be understood that the industry needs watchmakers as an aging population of watchmakers is literally dying off. Had it not been for the COVID-19 issue, the current class would be further along on the way to being the next wave of watchmakers to stroll confidently into the public sector earning a living with the rather expensive education we are receiving for no cost to ourselves. And it must be stated, this education were it to be provided in the public sector, would result in student loan payments that need to be paid back by the students. VWI charges nothing for the education, and trains its students to be not mere technicians but industry craftspeople capable of demanding and receiving the income the skills command. VWI is nothing short of a miracle that is quietly transforming disabled veterans into competent journeymen who are capable of becoming masters in short order. Upon graduation, I feel my class will be leaders in the field, matching or exceeding any other trained students from American of European schools. Perhaps it is not the place of a student to submit a rating as it might seem appropriate or appear to be biased out of gratitude, but I do feel confidence in my future knowing I will be able to earn a living as a fully qualified and competent craftsman who earnestly knows he will be qualified for the demanding skills this industry requires. This confidence is not unwarranted as I have already begun the process of restoring my self-purpose and feel the dignity a man should feel, rather then allowing myself to continue wallowing away thinking my life is over and I have no purpose in life. Please support this charity and allow it to continue it's mission to train others.