Flint event helps Mid-Michigan veterans - ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MI

(11/09/12) - Just in time for Veterans Day, some Mid-Michigan vets are getting the help they need - all in one place.

It's a problem that hits close to home. "Michigan is ranked 53rd behind Puerto Rico with veterans utilizing their benefits. So somewhere, there's a disconnect," said Tredale Kennedy, CEO, Alternative Veterans Solutions.

Too many veterans are not taking advantage of available help - or simply not knowing where to turn.

That's where this 'Military Stand Down Day' comes in.

"It's a collaboration of community organizations to come together to offer veterans all the benefits that they need, at one time, one location," Kennedy said.

Kennedy vividly remembers his transition from military to civilian life.

"I thought I was able to conquer the world, but the reality was resources wasn't there to help me," he said.

Tredale hopes this one-stop shop inside the former GM Tech Center helps his brothers and sister in arms, make a smoother transition.

"This is very refreshing, you know, to be able to come out, you know, see what's available," said Jeff Mitchell, Marine veteran.

Mitchell spent four years in the Marines. Since then, he's worked for the Flint Schools for nearly 20 years.

Jeff doesn't need a job, but he's hoping to help his family in another way.

It's just some housing issues. Just looking for a place for my daughter and I," he said.

From housing to mental and physical health resources, everything here is designed to get veterans the benefits they earned while serving our country.

"I love it. It's wonderful," said Gregory Ray, Army veteran.

This isn't the last time this group plans to offer help to veterans. They hope to have a room up and running as a community center some time in December.

For more information, call 810-336-8612 or click HERE.