Casey DeSantis Announces 'Continue the Mission' Initiative

Casey DeSantis

First Lady of Florida, Casey DeSantis has announced the launch of a new program known as the “Continue the Mission” initiative. According to the press release, the end goal of the program is to “recruit veterans, military spouses and former law enforcement officers to be child investigators and Department of Children and Families (DCF) case managers, as well as mentors to children in need, new case managers and child protective investigators. “ The initiative will allow those mentioned to hear the call of duty again, this time to serve in their local communities.

“Our veterans, military spouses and former law enforcement officers are a group of men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving our country and keeping our communities safe,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “I am excited there is a new pathway for these heroes to ‘Continue the Mission’ through rewarding career and mentorship opportunities protecting Florida’s children. We are not only helping children across the state, but also helping veterans and retired law enforcement with their mental and emotional well-being who may feel as though they’ve lost their purpose once they’ve left active duty or have retired.”

After the multiple school shootings that this nation has faced since Columbine, many have suggested that former veterans could serve as armed guards to protect classrooms. In today’s climate, naturally, that has drawn criticism by some. However, this move by the First Lady of Florida should not garner as much of objection, if there is any to this initiative.

“We know that working in this field can be a rewarding yet demanding career path,” said Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris. “By recruiting candidates and mentors who have already succeeded in high-stress positions, we can build resiliency within our existing workforce, increase job retention and enhance the caliber of services provided to the children and families of Florida.”

Recruitment for those who qualify to serve will take place in Tallahassee, Pensacola, and Okaloosa in late July and early August.