Project Refit Benefits Veterans and First Responders

Photo credits: Joseph Wengloski

Michael Lawver primarily serves as the diesel mechanic for the Ithaca Central Railroad, but more importantly, he served in the Marine Corps from 2008 – 2012. Through his military connection, he became involved with Project Refit. Project Refit is a New Jersey-based non-profit organization created to provide mental health assistance and a way for veterans and first responders to connect so they don’t feel isolated.

Lawver recently was asked to organize a car cruise to bring awareness and raise funds for the organization. The timeline was a tight one, but Lawver was able to round up sponsors, and 70 cars participated in the cruise, raising more than $4,100 for the organization.

Project Refit conducts “Buddy Check-Ins” via Zoom three days a week that give veterans and first responders an avenue to vent or request help from their peers. Funds raised through the car cruise will help the program purchase its first “Mobile Base,” a large, Refit-branded trailer that opens to a pop-up space with seating.

“Project Refit is trying to perfect the process of helping someone take the first step into their mental healing journey,” said James Corbett, Co-Founder of Project Refit. Also participating in the cruise was Ma Deuce Deuce (MA22) from the New Jersey shore .

MA22’s mission is to raise awareness of the “22 daily veteran suicides” epidemic and provide veterans suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with a diversity of information about restorative and therapeutic programs.

More information about Project Refit can be found at www.projectrefit.us, and information on Ma Deuce Deuce is located on their website at www.ma22.org.

An AM General M35A2 leading the cars around the Veteran’s community building.

An AM General M35A2 leading the cars around the Veteran’s community building.