KeyBank Foundation Invests $250,000 in Veterans Outreach Center’s Workforce Development Program
(ROCHESTER, N.Y.) September 18, 2026 – The KeyBank Foundation has announced a $250,000 investment to support the Veterans Outreach Center (VOC), assisting local veterans in transitioning from military service and re-entering the workforce through its Workforce Development Program.
Founded in 1973, VOC is the nation’s oldest community-based organization dedicated to stabilizing the lives of veterans. The center employs a whole-person approach to help veterans tackle challenges such as housing instability, behavioral health issues, unemployment, food insecurity, and legal barriers. VOC provides comprehensive wraparound services, ensuring veterans do not face these transitions alone.
“Veterans bring valuable leadership skills and experience, yet many struggle to translate their military background into civilian careers,” said Vince Lecce, KeyBank’s Rochester Market President. “Veterans Outreach Center has a proven model for helping veterans navigate that transition while connecting them to local employers. We are proud to support their mission of fostering long-term economic stability.”
The Workforce Development Program addresses barriers to employment faced by veterans, including the challenge of translating military credentials to civilian jobs and lack of professional networks. Services are provided free of charge to veterans of all backgrounds, regardless of discharge status or VA eligibility, and include support for their families as well.
Funds from this grant will stabilize career services, training, and employer engagement to expand skilled trades and apprenticeship pathways, which represent significant wage advancement opportunities in the Finger Lakes labor market.
“KeyBank’s investment will greatly enhance our ability to provide immediate job placement and long-term career planning,” said Laura Heltz, Executive Director of VOC and U.S. Army veteran. “Understanding the challenges veterans face firsthand fuels my passion for serving them. This partnership enables us to continue our vital work.”
Chiwuike Owunwanne, KeyBank’s Corporate Responsibility Officer in Rochester, emphasized VOC’s unique approach: “They help veterans recognize and build on their existing skills. This program not only provides practical support but also helps veterans move towards professional opportunities.”
Since 2017, KeyBank has invested over $1.2 billion in Rochester to support affordable housing, community development, and small business lending.
About KeyCorp
With roots over 200 years old in Albany, New York, and headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, KeyCorp is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies. As of June 30, 2026, KeyCorp had assets of approximately $191 billion and provides a wide range of services through its 950 branches across 15 states.
About Veterans Outreach Center
Founded by returning Vietnam veterans, VOC is the oldest non-profit dedicated to serving veterans and their families. VOC offers a comprehensive array of services designed to foster veteran success, including workforce development, legal support, and wellness programs. For more information, visit www.vocroc.org or call 585-546-1081.
