Two non-profits are partnering together to help bring crucial resources to veterans and their families.

G.I. Garage and Operation Not Forgotten are non-profit organizations that aims to assist veterans in transitioning back to civilian life and to provide services to support their well-being.

Both non-profits were founded in or around the north Georgia area with the goal of bring life-changing services to veterans in areas that desperately need it.

Jim Ellis, a veteran from Paulding County, Ga., that found his way to Operation Not Forgotten said that the organization changed his life.

“My best experience related to this program, by far, has been when my family told me how pleased they are that I am going to the meetings, and that I appear to be a happier person. I know that I still have a ways to go, but my message to other Veterans is that I have reached the other side and it is good,” Ellis said.

Founder and Executive Director of Operation Not Forgotten, Steve Schiffman says that the difference in what they bring is the free materials and resources to veterans.

These resources include the Step by Step Journals designed specifically for veterans, the Quality of Life AssessmentTM Software, the optional M.A.P. STM Life Coaching Program and they can even help with VA Benefit claims.

Both G.I. Garage and Operation Not Forgotten believe in the importance of veterans helping veterans.

The non-profits are run by veterans and they connect member with other vetrans so that they can trust and relate with to help them through difficulties.

G.I Garage and Operation Not Forgotten have started a new program for male veterans in Cumming, GA.

The meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month from 6:30-8:00 p.m. at G.I. Garage located at 5205 Browns Bridge Road, Suite D, Cumming, GA. 30041. / 404-852-4760

All meetings are veteran- run and maintained; all discussions are confidential. Free dinner will be served at each meeting.

Schiffman said he is excited about the partnership with G.I. Garage and what they can accomplish together.

“Another important aspect of our meetings is the renewed sense of brotherhood that veterans felt when they were in the military. The important thing is there is someone there for veterans to reach out to; a buddy to “have your six” – a safe place to find support.”