BlackRock Raising Awareness, Money for Veteran Issues

The BlackRock Veteran's Network, an internal employee network, is sponsoring a new initiative – VestsForVets.

New York-based BlackRock Inc. is inviting its employees and anyone who supports veterans to purchase a warm fleece vest through its website and to wear it on Nov. 11 to commemorate Veterans Day, Armistice Day or Remembrance Day, depending on what country you live in.

The black vest, which features the VestsForVets logo on the chest, is "a symbol of the flak jacket that service men and women wear during their tour of duty," said Gary S. Shedlin, a senior managing director and BlackRock's chief financial officer, in an internal memo obtained by Pensions & Investments.

"Wearing the vest will demonstrate your support for your colleagues, families and friends who served, as well as help support veterans as they prepare for careers and life after service," Mr. Shedlin said. He is the U.S. executive sponsor for BlackRock's veterans employee network. A portion of the of the purchase price of the vest (as low as $42.50) will benefit American Corporate Partners, New York, a mentoring program to help vets return to civilian life and new careers with which BlackRock partners.

BlackRock has an internal program to hire qualified veterans and participates in veteran-support activities, including the Wounded Warrior Soldier Ride and the New York City Veterans Day Parade, said Melissa Garville, a company spokeswoman.

BlackRock managed $6.84 trillion as of June 30.