“I served my country for 10 years… and when I came home, I didn’t know who I was anymore.”
These are the words of thousands of veterans who have given everything—years of their lives, time with their families, and even parts of themselves—only to find that once their mission ends, their battle begins. This time, it’s not against an enemy overseas but against the overwhelming challenges of civilian life.
For someone who spent years in a rigid structure, where every day had a purpose and every decision had life-or-death stakes, coming back home isn’t always the joyful reunion we imagine. Instead, many veterans face an unexpected void.
The structure is gone. The camaraderie disappears. And suddenly, they’re thrust into a world that speaks a different language, with rules they weren’t trained for. It’s no wonder many veterans describe the transition as one of the hardest moments of their lives.
The Reality: A Silent Crisis
Here’s what most people don’t realize:
Every year, 200,000 service members leave the military and step into civilian life. And while the country honors them with words, too many are left to struggle alone when it comes to reintegration.
50% of post-9/11 veterans say transitioning to civilian life is difficult.
64% of veterans report that finding employment is their biggest challenge after leaving the military.
Between 4.7% and 19.9% suffer from PTSD, and a staggering 72% report high stress levels after service.
Between 4.7% and 19.9% suffer from PTSD, and a staggering 72% report high stress levels after service.
Even those who find jobs often feel disconnected, with over half saying they lack the sense of purpose they once had.
The Blackford Foundation:
A New Mission
That’s why the Blackford Foundation exists—to step in when the mission ends and a new battle begins. We’re here to give veterans what they deserve: a real chance to build a life they’re proud of.
Our approach is simple but powerful:
Personalized Support – Whether it’s career coaching, mental health resources, or simply a community that “gets it,” we meet veterans where they are.
Proven Programs – We help veterans take the skills they mastered in the military and translate them into the civilian world. Leadership, discipline, teamwork—these aren’t just military traits; they’re life skills that can build incredible futures.
A Community of Belonging – No veteran should feel alone. Through events, mentorship, and support groups, we’re creating a new kind of camaraderie—one built for civilian life.
Your Chance to Make a Difference
These men and women put their lives on the line for us. Now it’s our turn.
Your contribution to the Blacklock Foundation directly helps veterans find jobs, manage stress, and build fulfilling lives after service. Every dollar goes toward programs that are proven to work—because when we invest in our veterans, we’re not just giving back. We’re building a stronger future, one life at a time.
Want to help?
Click below to contribute. Even a small gift can create a big impact for those who gave so much.
💭💭💭
Imagine, sitting in a room with 40 others.
You’re now 22 years old. You joined the Navy when you were just 18 and they have taken care of you for the past four years. They have given you housing they have given you food and they have given you a path to learn skills.
But now you’re transitioning and you don’t have the slightest idea of what you’re going to do.
Are you scared?
Damn right you are!
I sat in the seat many years ago, and I bowed that when I could do something about it, I would help those that are making the transition from the military into the civilian world.
That’s why Blacklock Foundation will be investing in helping those that are transitioning from the military to the civilian world.
