NVF Welcomes New Interns Jane Zierhut and Roberto Hernandez

Both interns are students in the School of Social Work at Cal State Los Angeles.

Jane is from Los Angeles, California. She received her Bachelor’s in social work from California State University, Los Angeles and is currently a master’s student there. Jane was inspired by the veterans in her family to work with the veteran community. She has a background in hospital social work and hopes to continue working with veterans after finishing her master’s degree. Jane was quick to participate in the LA Collaborative’s working group for Women Veterans because it puts her close to others with resources for women vets.

Jane was drawn to social work because she wanted a career in mental health which would allow her to empower others every day. She loves to bake, to run and loves her cat Panther dearly.

Roberto Hernandez, born in Torrance, served in the United States Marine Corps from January 2000 to March 2004 as an Amphibious Assault Crew Chief in the 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division. During his time in service he deployed to Iraq and was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.

After his service, he became a Certified Peer Support Specialist and a Facilitator for Resiliency Strength Training to help veterans deal with Moral Injury. He is currently working on his bachelor’s degree in Social Work at Cal State LA. His goal: to earn his master’s degree in Social Work and then acquire his license. We feel fortunate to have a vet with his experience on the team.

In his off hours, Robert enjoys riding his motorcycle, listening to music and learning to play piano and his guitar.