Kevin Miller, a Marine Corps veteran, suffered from traumatic brain injury and was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. These factors complicated Kevin’s transition from military to civilian life. He was unemployed and received multiple DUIs. Kevin found a new direction through an AmeriCorps position with Swords to Plowshares in California. His experience with AmeriCorps reminded Kevin to “redefine what it means to be ‘successful.’ You cannot dwell on what you cannot change, but you can use your ‘failures’ as motivation to drive towards your own definition of success.” After his service, Swords to Plowshares created a full-time job for Kevin to work on veterans policy, where he helped fellow veterans get the services and support they need to prevent homelessness, poverty, and untreated mental and physical health issues.
"AmeriCorps VISTA and a nonprofit called Swords to Plowshares gave me an opportunity and a home. Today, because I was given the opportunity to serve post military, I'm actively involved in the mission to end veteran homelessness."