News

Dec 18, 2024

The COMMIT Foundation Recognized as a 2024 Top-Rated Nonprofit by GreatNonprofits

Celebrating Impact and Excellence in Veteran Transition Services Bozeman, Montana –December 17, 2024 – The COMMIT Founda...

Celebrating Impact and Excellence in Veteran Transition Services Bozeman, Montana –December 17, 2024 – The COMMIT Foundation is proud to announce that it has been named a 2024 Top-Rated Nonprofit by GreatNonprofits, the leading platform for community-sourced reviews of nonprofit organizations. This prestigious recognition reflects The COMMIT Foundation’s unwavering dedication to empowering military veterans as they transition to meaningful civilian lives and careers. The Top-Rated Nonprofit Award is based on the direct feedback of those served by an organization and its supporters. The COMMIT Foundation received over 60 heartfelt testimonials from volunteers, donors, and supporters, sharing stories of the organization’s transformative impact. These reviews highlight the foundation’s personalized coaching, innovative programs, and dedication to serving those who have served. “This honor is especially meaningful because it comes from the voices of those we serve, as well as the incredible network of supporters who believe in our mission,” said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. “Their trust and collaboration inspire us to continually refine our services and deepen our impact, ensuring those who have served receive the personalized support they need to thrive beyond their service.” The COMMIT Foundation’s programs, such as its signature Pursue Your Purpose initiative and high-touch workshops, equip veterans with the tools and confidence to explore their passions, refine their career goals, and build fulfilling lives in the civilian world. Its recent expansion to serve veterans from allied nations in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada reflects a growing global impact. This recognition comes as The COMMIT Foundation continues to push for innovation and excellence in transition services, working tirelessly to ensure all who have served have access to high-quality, personalized support.Community members are encouraged to read these inspiring stories by going to greatnonprofits.org The COMMIT Foundation, based in Bozeman, Montana, provides personalized transition services to those who’ve served, helping them identify their passions, build strong networks, and leverage their skills in civilian careers. The COMMIT Foundation aims to set a new standard for transition services worldwide by offering high-touch support and fostering meaningful connections. GreatNonprofits is the leading platform for community-sourced ratings and reviews of nonprofit organizations. Each year, the Top-Rated Nonprofit Award recognizes organizations that receive overwhelmingly positive reviews from the people they serve and the communities that support them.

Read More
  • Nov 26, 2024

    The COMMIT Foundation Welcomes Jennifer Zucker to Its Board of Directors

    The COMMIT Foundation Welcomes Jennifer Zucker to Its Board of Directors November 25, 2024 The COMMIT Foundation is proud to announce Jennifer Zucker's addition to its Board of Directors. A dedicated advocate for the veteran community, Jennifer brings an unparalleled blend of professional expertise, military service, and passion for empowering others. Jennifer Zucker currently serves as Co-Chair of the Government Contracts Practice at the global law firm Greenberg Traurig, where she helps clients navigate complex federal procurement issues. Her experience includes representing major aerospace, defense, professional services, and IT contractors in bid protests claims litigation, and regulatory compliance. She also assists with mergers and acquisitions and government investigations. A trailblazer in her field, Jennifer is a founding member of Veterans@GT and served on the board of SRC Energy, Inc., where she chaired the Compensation Committee. She holds a distinguished academic background with degrees from Boston University, Brooklyn Law School, George Washington University, and the U.S. Army War College. Jennifer’s service extends far beyond her professional career. She served on active duty as a member of the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps and continues her military commitment as a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. “Jennifer’s unique combination of military and civilian leadership, coupled with her dedication to helping veterans reach their full potential, makes her an invaluable addition to The COMMIT Foundation Board,” said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. “Her insights and expertise will undoubtedly enhance our mission of empowering veterans as they transition to civilian life.” Jennifer’s passion for giving back to the military community stems from her personal journey as a veteran. Her experiences have driven her to champion the causes of those who have served, ensuring they have the tools, guidance, and opportunities to thrive in their next chapters. “I’m honored to join The COMMIT Foundation Board and support its vital mission,” Jennifer said. “Transitioning out of the military can be a complex journey, and I’m excited to contribute to an organization that provides such meaningful support to veterans and their families.” The COMMIT Foundation is excited to work alongside Jennifer as we continue to serve the veteran community and create life-changing opportunities for those transitioning from military service. For more information about The COMMIT Foundation and our programs, visit commitfoundation.org.

    Read More
  • Nov 12, 2024

    Introducing New Team Members at The COMMIT Foundation

    We are thrilled to announce the newest members of The COMMIT Foundation team: Alex Genovese, Adrianne Huls, and Kristen Lauerman. Each brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective that will enhance our mission of supporting those who have served and their families to create purposeful and fulfilling transitions. Alex Genovese, Director of Veteran Services Alex joins us as a Director of Veteran Services, dedicated to guiding our Fellows and their families throughout their transition journeys. With a background as a Nuclear Missiles Officer, Alex developed critical leadership and decision-making skills in high-pressure environments. Prior to joining The COMMIT Foundation, she worked with another non-profit veteran organization, where she honed her passion for community support and holistic well-being. Alex earned her undergraduate degree in Community Health from The University of Texas at San Antonio and is committed to ensuring veterans and their families receive the personalized support they need during this significant life change. Residing in Texas with her husband and two daughters, Alex balances her fulfilling career with family life, always prioritizing her dedication to the veteran community. Adrianne Huls, Director of Veteran Services Adrianne brings over 20 years of professional experience in military command structure, higher education, and the non-profit sectors. With a strong emphasis on serving the whole person, she believes that authentic communication is vital in helping others navigate their transitions. Adrianne holds both undergraduate and graduate degrees from East Carolina University, focusing on Interpersonal Communication and Strategic Communication, along with a graduate certificate in Military and Civilian Trauma Studies. A proud retired USMC spouse, she understands the importance of transition not just for veterans but for their entire families. Originally from Virginia and now residing in North Carolina with her husband, Adrianne enjoys RVing and watching sports with her two adult children. Kristen Lauerman, Director of Development Kristen joins The COMMIT Foundation as a development professional with extensive frontline experience in raising critical support for large non-profits in the arts and higher education sectors. Her expertise spans major gifts, annual giving, volunteer management, and event planning. Kristen believes that successful fundraising goes beyond transactions; it’s about building strong, personal relationships with donors to help them fulfill their philanthropic goals. She holds an MFA in Film Studies from Boston University and an MS in Nonprofit Management from Simmons College. A former film curator and educator, Kristen is a high-energy, creative, and results-driven fundraiser who enjoys telling compelling stories. Currently residing in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with her husband and two children, she is also a dedicated Coast Guard spouse. Alex, Adrianne, and Kristen are already making COMMIT a stronger organization through their work in programming and development. We are so glad they are part of our COMMunITy.

    Read More
  • Nov 12, 2024

    Baltimore Veteran Transition Workshop Launches with ‘Cocktails and Conversations’

    BALTIMORE – The COMMIT Foundation held a Veteran Transition Workshop hosted by Brown Advisory in Baltimore from October 22-24. COMMIT Chairman, Guy Filippelli, kicked off the multi-day program by welcoming participants, supporters, and veteran advocates to a ‘Cocktails and Conversations’ reception at the Baltimore Country Club. This pre-workshop event offered a unique opportunity for veterans to connect with influential business and community leaders in the area. “The chance for transitioning veterans to build connections with business and community leaders in our host cities is invaluable,” said COMMIT CEO, JC Glick. “Our goal for 2025 is to make events like this a staple of every workshop, helping veterans establish ties to their future communities.” COMMIT workshops draw on the strength of extensive networks and professional relationships to bring together high-achieving service members and veterans with experienced professionals in industries where they can excel. “I continue to be impressed by COMMIT's dedication to service members and veterans,” said Char P., U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant. “The foundation provides the structure for introspection and puts me in a position to design a future tailored to my vision.”

    Read More
  • Nov 11, 2024

    The COMMIT Foundation Expands Services to Support “Five Eyes” Allies

    The COMMIT Foundation Expands Services to Support “Five Eyes” Allies Serving Veterans and Their Families Across the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada WASHINGTON – In honor of Veterans Day, also known internationally as Armistice Day, The COMMIT Foundation proudly announces the expansion of its transformative services to encompass our "Five Eyes" allies: the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. This strategic growth reflects The COMMIT Foundation’s commitment to empowering high-potential veterans and their families worldwide as they navigate the challenges of post-service life. Founded on the belief that those who have served deserve meaningful opportunities and resources, The COMMIT Foundation has been a trusted partner in the United States, guiding thousands of veterans and their families as they transition to new civilian roles. With this expansion, the foundation will extend its unique model—focused on personal growth, purpose, and lifelong impact—to include warriors and spouses from these allied nations, fostering a united global community of service members committed to creating positive change. “We’re thrilled to open our doors to the veterans and spouses of the Five Eyes nations. These allies have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with our service members on countless missions, and it is a privilege to now stand beside them in their next chapters,” said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. “This expansion is about more than support—it’s about cultivating a global network of leaders who understand the value of service and the impact they can have beyond the uniform.” The COMMIT Foundation’s programs provide personalized support for transitioning veterans, focusing on self-actualization, leadership development, and purpose-driven work in the civilian sector. By expanding to the Five Eyes community, the Foundation strengthens its mission to empower a global cohort of resilient, adaptive leaders across industries, from business to academia, non-profits, and beyond. This expansion comes at a pivotal moment as nations recognize the unique challenges facing modern veterans and the invaluable skills they bring to society. COMMIT’s approach is built on community, respect, and an unwavering dedication to helping each individual and family realize their full potential. To learn more about how The COMMIT Foundation impacts the futures of those who serve visit us at: commitfoundation.org.    Follow us on:  Linked In: @commitfoundation Facebook: @commitfoundation Instagram: @thecommitfoundation

    Read More
  • Oct 18, 2024

    Empowering Veteran Spouses: The COMMIT Foundation Sponsors Workshop in DC

    WASHINGTON – The COMMIT Foundation held a military spouse transition workshop hosted by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in Washington, D.C., October 9-10. The workshop brought together military and veteran spouses for a transformative experience that addressed the unique challenges they face during their families’ transitions from military to civilian life. The workshop took place over two days and was designed to provide a blend of practical resources, community support, and personal growth sessions for those navigating the complex shifts often accompanying their partners' return to civilian life. “The spouse component of COMMIT came at just the right time for me,” said Nija Bernard, a transitioning spouse whose husband is about to retire from the Air Force. “The information offered during group sessions and during my private sessions with my coach gave me a new sense of confidence and offered a bevy of ideas,”. The workshop is a crucial component of the services provided to the spouses of those who have served. Commitment to military spouses is about recognizing the full spectrum of transition within a family. The journey of a military spouse is profound and complex, encompassing much more than a change of address or a new job. Participants praised the event for its personalized approach and the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences. Many attendees found the sessions on identity and purpose particularly impactful, as they provided tools to help them redefine their roles and find fulfillment outside of the military community. Bernard agreed, “COMMIT helped me identify where I was in the transition phase, they gave me voice and they helped me look forward to what is to come for both me and my spouse. I am so grateful." The workshop is part of The COMMIT Foundation’s ongoing efforts to support the entire family in the transition process. The foundation has plans to hold additional workshops in various locations across the country to reach more veteran families. “Spouses are often the unsung heroes of the transition process,” said Meagan Thrift, VP of Program Integration and Engagement at COMMIT and a military spouse. “This workshop is about providing them with resources, a supportive community, and, most importantly, a space where they can feel seen and understood.”

    Read More
  • Oct 17, 2024

    COMMIT Foundation Awarded VA Grant to Empower Veterans and Spouses in Career Transitions

    Thank you, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), for entrusting COMMIT with continuing to prioritize the people who serve this nation! The COMMIT Foundation is proud to share that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), recognizing the impactful work we do, selected COMMIT as one of the grant recipients of its Veteran and Spouse Transitional Assistance Grant Program. The grant program is a $5 million initiative to support organizations that provide career transition resources and tools to support military service members, veterans, and their spouses as they transition back to civilian life. COMMIT was one of thirteen awarded organizations and will use the funding to provide high-touch, values-based personalized support to high-performing veterans and spouses, helping them navigate the challenges of transitioning out of service and designing lives of purpose. "Our mission has always been about more than just offering resources; it’s about designing personalized, meaningful pathways that empower those who have served," said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. "By partnering with the VA and other forward-thinking organizations, we’re committed to staying on the cutting edge of veteran transition support, constantly innovating to meet the unique needs of every individual we serve. Together we’re not just strengthening the ecosystem – we’re transforming it for a stronger, more connected future for high-potential veterans and their families." This first-of-its-kind program, aimed at helping veterans and their spouses transition from military to civilian life, highlights the VA's continued dedication to addressing the unique challenges veterans and their families face.

    Read More
  • Sep 27, 2024

    The COMMIT Foundation Partners with Exray to Launch New Store Offering Casual and Professional Apparel

    September 2024 – MontanaThe COMMIT Foundation, a national leader in high-potential service member transition support, has announced a new partnership with Exray, an apparel company known for its mission-driven approach to high-quality clothing and gear. Together, the organizations have launched a new online store offering a range of casual and professional apparel tailored to the needs of COMMIT’s unique and high-potential community. The store, which is available to the public through COMMIT’s website, features a selection of clothing and gear designed to support veterans and their families as they transition into new careers and leadership roles. The store will provide not only versatile everyday wear but also attire suitable for professional environments. The product line reflects the casual and professional needs of those served by COMMIT, a demographic that includes service members, veterans, the non-DoD intelligence community, and their spouses. A Mission-Driven Partnership The partnership with Exray is the latest in COMMIT’s ongoing efforts to align with like-minded organizations that share its mission of supporting veterans and their families and making a positive impact on the world around them. The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to creating purpose-driven, high-quality products that cater to the needs of individuals transitioning into civilian life while maintaining the sense of service and leadership that defined their time in service. “We are incredibly proud to partner with Exray on this new initiative,” said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. “This store isn’t just about apparel; it’s about representing the tribe we’ve built. Our community is full of leaders, innovators, and service-oriented individuals who are making a real impact. We want them to have something that symbolizes that. And if there’s something they need that we don’t yet offer, we’re committed to adding it.” Empowering Veterans Through Apparel The store's launch marks an important step in COMMIT’s broader strategy to empower high-potential individuals and their families beyond their time serving the country. The organization is widely recognized for its tailored programs that help these high-potential individuals and their families find personal and professional purpose after their time in uniform. The apparel line offers a tangible way for members of the COMMIT community to demonstrate their pride in being part of a tribe dedicated to continued service, leadership, and impact. “Clothing is personal, but it can also be powerful,” Glick added. “Wearing something that connects you to a mission and a community can remind you that you are part of something bigger than yourself.” Exray’s Role in the Partnership Exray, which has built a reputation for creating durable, stylish, and mission-driven apparel, is an ideal partner for this venture. Known for its commitment to quality and community, Exray has designed the clothing line to be practical, versatile, and reflective of the high standards held by both The COMMIT Foundation and the individuals it serves. “We’re honored to work with COMMIT,” said Mike Gnoffo, the owner of Exray. “We believe in their mission and in the incredible individuals they serve. This partnership allows us to support their community in a new way.” An Invitation to the Community The COMMIT Foundation encourages anyone interested to visit the store, explore the product line, and support the movement by sporting the brand. A portion of all sales go to the foundation to allow it to continue its mission. Looking Ahead The partnership with Exray is just one of the many ways COMMIT continues to expand its offerings and strengthen its commitment to its core mission: empowering high-potential individuals who have served and their families to create purposeful and fulfilling transitions into civilian life. As the organization grows, so does its impact, with thousands of individuals already benefiting from its programs and resources. The new store is seen as an extension of that mission, offering a practical yet meaningful way for individuals to stay connected to the COMMIT community while showcasing their pride in being part of an elite group of service-oriented leaders. The COMMIT store is now live and available to all on the foundation’s official website.

    Read More
  • Sep 26, 2024

    The Often Overlooked Transition: Focusing on the Service Member’s Spouse

    When we think about the transition from military to civilian life, our thoughts often gravitate toward the service members themselves. It's a monumental shift—moving from a structured, purpose-driven existence within the military to navigating the freedoms and challenges of civilian life. Yet, another equally important transition is occurring in tandem, one that deserves equal attention—the transition experienced by the spouses of these service members. The journey of a military spouse is profound and complex, encompassing much more than a change of address or a new job. It's about a transformation of identity, an evolution of roles, and a redefinition of personal aspirations. This transition isn't just about supporting a partner; it's about rediscovering oneself amidst the upheaval. The COMMIT Foundation recognizes this fact and has developed the Spouse Transition Program to support this sometimes overlooked but essential community.“COMMIT helped me identify where I was in the transition phase,” said Nija Bernard, whose husband is transitioning from the Air Force. “COMMIT gave me voice by informing me, and they helped me look forward to what is to come for both me and my spouse.” Through tailored support services, the program encourages spouses to rediscover their passions and ambitions, empowering them to pursue their personal and professional goals alongside their partner. Commitment to the spouses of veterans is about recognizing the full spectrum of transition within a family. It's about understanding that changing routines, identities, and lives affect everyone involved. “The demand for spouse programming was clear among our community, for too long. The narrative has positioned these spouses merely as extensions of their veteran partners,” said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. "We see the transformation of spouses and families as just as crucial to a successful transition as the veteran’s own journey. Their growth and support are key to making the transition impactful for everyone involved." COMMIT has helped nearly 300 spouses navigate their transition since the program began in 2022. “We take great pride in supporting spouses as individuals with their unique challenges and needs," added Glick. "Transitioning out of the military is a journey that impacts everyone differently, and we must recognize the spouse's experience isn't just an extension of the veteran's. They have their path, and we're here to help them navigate it with the support and resources they deserve." The primary goal of the Spouse Transition Program is to assure military spouses that their experiences, emotions, and aspirations are entirely valid and normal. “The program recognizes that spouses often put their aspirations on hold while supporting their service member,” said Julie French, leader of spouse programming at The COMMIT Foundation. “The COMMIT Foundation's program is a transformative resource for military spouses seeking guidance and support during their transition to civilian life.” The program is designed around four live online classes. The four classes cover the key topics of identity, values, values alignment, and telling one's story. Along with the virtual classes, each participant is offered 3-5 coaching sessions with an executive or life coach. In October, COMMIT will hold a spouse transition workshop in Washington D.C. The in-person workshops are relatively new to the program but add significant benefit to the value delivered to spouses. French added, “With the support of dedicated coaches and a comprehensive online dashboard of class assignments, this program empowers military spouses to navigate their transition with confidence and purpose. Through self-reflection and growth, military spouses can confidently navigate their transition journey and embark on a fulfilling new chapter in their lives.” In the end, the success of transitioning veterans is intricately linked to the well-being and fulfillment of everyone involved. Recognizing and supporting these spouses as individuals is not just an act of respect—it's a fundamental component of facilitating successful transitions for those who have served our nation. “At The COMMIT Foundation, we're not just helping individuals transition but also supporting families in redefining their futures together and as individuals,” French concluded.

    Read More
  • Sep 25, 2024

    Nobody Walks Alone: A Nationwide Tribe Unites for The COMMIT Foundation

    In a powerful display of camaraderie, grit, and purpose, the Nobody Walks Alone event brought participants from all corners of the country to raise funds and awareness for The COMMIT Foundation. From the shores of Virginia Beach to the streets of Seattle, Long Island, New York, across North Carolina, and we even went international with folks participating in Normandy - teams of passionate individuals came together to prove that nobody walks alone. This incredible event, now an annual tradition, was the brainchild of Michele Olive, our inspiring Vice President of Alumni Affairs. Michele envisioned a way to strengthen the bond between The COMMIT Foundation participants and their support networks while raising critical funds for the foundation, an organization dedicated to helping those who have served, their spouses, and their families transition into meaningful post-service lives. Her vision sparked Nobody Walks Alone, an event that has quickly become a symbol of unity and shared purpose. A new addition to this year's event was The MO, a WOD (Workout of the Day) designed specifically for the occasion. Aptly named after Michele Olive herself, The MO challenged participants to six grueling rounds of 10 pull-ups, 10 clean and presses with dumbbells, and a ½-mile run—while carrying extra weight in the form of a vest or ruck. This symbolic load was a reminder that the burdens those who serve carry after their service are never truly light—but with a strong community, no one bears them alone. This year’s Nobody Walks Alone event was our most successful yet! This remarkable achievement, a testament to our collective effort, will go directly to empowering high-potential individuals through The COMMIT Foundation’s mission of building purpose-driven lives post-service. The impact of this event goes beyond the dollars raised. It’s about the tribe that comes together, supporting one another, stepping up to walk, run, and lift side by side, just as they do in life. The physical challenge reflects the emotional and mental challenges our participants face in transition, and it reinforces that we are all in this together. Participants echoed a shared sentiment: We are a tribe. This is the driving spirit of Nobody Walks Alone. Whether you are in Seattle lacing up your boots, running through the sandy trails of Virginia Beach, riding the battlefields of Normandy, or lifting alongside your brothers and sisters in Long Island, you’re connected by a purpose that transcends geography. You’re walking together, even when miles apart. Looking ahead, we want even more people to join this movement. Next year, we’re aiming to increase participation and raise even more for The COMMIT Foundation. And the journey doesn’t stop here. Be on the lookout for other exciting events like the MOG Mile with The Three Rangers Foundation and the Warrior Yomp in Washington D.C. with the Allied Forces Foundation. Each event, every step taken, builds on this momentum—showing those who serve that no matter what, they’ll never walk alone. The potential of this movement is boundless, and we can't wait to see where it takes us. Thank you to every participant, every supporter, and every person who believes in the power of community. Your contributions, whether through participation, donation, or simply spreading the word, are deeply appreciated and have made a significant impact. Let’s keep growing this tribe, one mile, one lift, and one step at a time.

    Read More