As we prepare to honor Veteran’s Day, our thoughts turn to the millions of veterans who have served our country and who, far too often, return from duty with service-related injuries, many of which are invisible to others.
Melwood supports our nation’s veterans in their efforts to reintegrate into civilian life, especially those who struggle to live with service-related traumas. Finding “peace with the past, through power in the present” is a guiding idea that continues to inspire me. This is the foundational principle of Operation Tohidu, named for a Cherokee word meaning mind, body, and spirit.
Operation Tohidu is a transformative retreat program that encourages participants to reframe their trauma so they can approach life with renewed purpose and positivity. It supports them in finding the courage to persevere in the difficult healing process. This year, with a $100,000 grant from the Wounded Warrior Project, we are continuing services provided to women who have experienced military sexual trauma. The path for these women is far from easy. We are grateful to the Wounded Warrior Project for their support. If you know of a veteran who could benefit from our services, please direct them to our website https://melwood.org/veterans-services/.
We especially recognize all Melwood employees who have served in our nation’s military, such as Paul Umstead, Mike Lee and Jamie Jones.
About Melwood
Melwood is one of the largest employers of people with disabilities in the country, employing more than 1,600 workers – nearly 1,000 of whom are people with disabilities. Melwood offers job placement, job training, life skills for independence, and support services to more than 2,500 people each year in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Melwood also has an inclusive summer camp program for children and provides employment and support services to veterans and active-duty military members who have experienced service-related trauma or injury. For more information, visit www.Melwood.org.
Media Inquiries
Jewelyn Cosgrove
Vice President of Government and Public Relations
O: 240-846-3952 [email protected]
