Program helps unemployed veterans get back on their feet

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (WXYZ) - Veterans returning from service often receive a heroes welcome, but it can be a lonely life once the banners and parades have disappeared.

Harold Richardson, a Detroit native, joined the military in 1979, hoping to see more of the world. But when his travels took him to Germany, he found few friends, so he turned to alcohol for comfort.

His habit continued even when he returned to Detroit. It eventually cost him his wife, his job and his home. He is one of thousands of homeless vets across the country. Robinson felt like the country he had proudly served had turned its back on him. "I’m not going to lie to you, I felt like they didn't care," said Robinson.

After more than a year on the streets, he finally turned his life around, seeking shelter at a veterans center and getting job training from the Detroit GreenWorks Solutions program.

The project started roughly nine months ago, but has placed 63% of its graduates into a job. It's what Robinson is hoping for when he completes the 10-week program next week. "I'm not going to look back at what I did. I gotta look forward now. It’s about the future," Robinson said.