On October 1st, one of the nation’s leading veteran non-profit organizations, Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), will hit a historic mark: 250,000 young people impacted by their Character Does Matter initiative nationwide.

TMF’s marquee program, Character Does Matter, deploys veterans (Mentors) to give presentations about character to students across the country, with the stories of fallen heroes as examples to learn from. Studies have shown that 55% of veterans feel disconnected from civilian life. Additionally, 1 in 3 young adults have never had a positive role model. By sharing stories of real people who exemplify great character and leadership, Character Does Matter Mentors demonstrate what it means to live the “If Not Me, Then Who…” ethos – and then challenges students to do the same. As part of the program, students commit to participating in a service project to honor a fallen hero.

Throughout the first week of October, TMF will share amazing stories on social media about some of the young adults who have been impacted. These stories will even include short home videos from students across the country speaking to the impact that Character Does Matter has had on them. TMF has also prepared a video to highlight the impact in one specific community, where veterans served as mentors to students at Wakefield Middle School in Raleigh, NC – view here.

Ryan Manion, President of Travis Manion Foundation, said: “The most important mission our nation is charged with, is to build a legacy of character that will last for generations. Through TMF, veterans are working to develop character and leadership in our youth through the ‘If Not Me, Then Who…’ movement, and in turn, uniting our country through the common cause of selfless service.”