Gregory McCloskey, Helms College

Home Depot Foundation, Helms College

For many veterans, transitioning back to civilian life can be challenging. U.S. Army veteran Gregory McCloskey knew the challenges of transition all too well. During three-and-a-half years in the military, he earned 17 awards and decorations. Gregory was forced to retire due to the injuries medically he sustained to his right knee from a roadside bomb during a tour in Iraq. Finding a new path proved difficult as he faced closed doors and limited resources. But everything changed when he enrolled at Helms College, a move that opened the door to a new career, a support network, and an inspiring community dedicated to veterans.

McCloskey returned home with a passion for cooking and a desire to build a new life. Yet, the path was not always clear. “I’ve always loved cooking, but I needed something more to focus on,” he shared. After joining a community cooking class, a teacher saw the potential in him. “One of the chef instructors told me I had the skills and passion for a professional culinary career,” McCloskey recounted. “That’s when I knew I wanted to join the culinary program at Helms. I’d recommend this program to anyone with a love for cooking and a dream.”

McCloskey’s journey hasn’t been just about enhancing his culinary skills. After Hurricane Helene caused extensive damage to his home, McCloskey faced the overwhelming task of cleanup and recovery on his own. That’s when Helms College’s partners, The Home Depot Foundation, the Richmond County Marshal’s Office, and Veterans for Clean Water, stepped in. Together, they provided critical assistance with debris removal and property repairs, enabling McCloskey to rebuild his life once again. “Before attending Helms, I didn’t know where to find resources like this,” he said. “Being part of Helms College has connected me to amazing support networks, and it’s made such a difference.”

The support from these partners was more than just physical restoration – it was a restoration of community and trust. “It’s been an amazing experience,” McCloskey added. “I felt the camaraderie I used to have in the service. Now, I can even give back by joining future projects to help others, just like I was helped.”

McCloskey’s journey to Helms College started with a love for cooking and a desire to build a meaningful career. “I’ve always loved cooking and needed something more to focus on,” he explained. “When I started community classes, one of the chef instructors saw my passion and recommended the culinary program at Helms. I liked what I saw when I took the tour, and I’d highly recommend the program to anyone with a love for cooking.” Now, as he refines his skills in the kitchen, McCloskey has even bigger goals for the future.

“My plan is to earn my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, and eventually come back to teach culinary arts locally,” he shared. “I’d love to create better access for high school students interested in cooking careers. I was accepted to the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute as a high school senior but couldn’t attend due to a lack of funding. It would mean so much to help kids and young adults coming up in similar situations.”

Helms College supports veteran students like McCloskey, fostering empowerment in all aspects of their lives. Leah Pontani, Senior Vice President of Career Development at Helms College, emphasized this mission: “We’re honored to support our veterans by connecting them to resources and community networks. Through partnerships, we uplift those who have served, ensuring they excel on campus and in their personal lives.”

With partnerships like The Home Depot Foundation, the Richmond County Marshal’s Office, and Veterans for Clean Water, as well as a growing suite of veteran-centered initiatives, Helms College reaffirms its mission to create an inclusive, supportive environment where veterans like Gregory McCloskey can succeed in every part of their lives and inspire future generations to pursue their passions.

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