(COLUMBUS, OH) – Today, Operation Meraki was publicly launched to help veterans combat the challenges they face after conflict and separation from military service. The organization was founded by Michael Thomas, a Pickerington resident and disabled veteran who was a 9/11 first responder. Operation Meraki builds community partnerships that address challenges of reintegration with unique mental health programs and employability training. “After leaving the service I saw that businesses struggled with how to utilize veterans and many left before their first year of employment,” Thomas said. “I also saw how the mental and emotional aspects of conflict impacted my fellow veterans and it’s hard to be successful when you’re still in battle mentally. Our focus is to restore the dignity and quality of life for veterans transitioning out of the service by helping them tell their stories and mentoring them towards success. We believe when veterans are given a new mission, they bring a unique perspective to society.” Operation Meraki’s first program Reengage will start with in-person and online options on Monday, April 5, and will focus on career development, resume, and interviewing skills. The program is free for all veterans and their families. Reengage will meet in person at Connection West in Lancaster on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 6-8 p.m. Only 11 people can attend in person at this time due to COVID restrictions, but there is an online option as well. For more information or to register for the class, go to https://operationmeraki.org/reengage. Veterans of all branches of the military and eras are welcome to participate in any Operation Meraki programs.
For more information, visit https://operationmeraki.org/ ###
Media Contact: Julie Theado, Krile Communications, [email protected], 614-774-6358