JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Local veterans and community members took aim at more than just clay targets last week. They gathered at Jacksonville Clay Target Sports to raise money for service members transitioning from military life to meaningful civilian careers.
Operation New Uniform, a local nonprofit that helps transitioning service members find fulfilling careers after service, hosted its 10th annual clay shooting fundraiser at the venue.
Michele McManamon, Operation New Uniform’s CEO, said the funds go directly to those the organization serves.
“This directly supports our classes. It directly supports those that we serve, whether it’s a spouse, a veteran, or an active-duty member that is in their last part of their transition in the military. So, we’ll be able to support them directly and help them find amazing careers,” McManamon said.
The event drew a mix of veterans, volunteers and business partners all united behind one mission. David Trenholm, an Operation New Uniform board member, said the crowd reflects the broad support the organization has built.
“You’ll find a lot of veterans here. You’ll see a lot of veterans volunteering, but you’ll also see what we call allies, people that are out here to support and understand the struggle that veterans go through as they leave the military and try to find new careers,” Trenholm said.
Featured sponsors and attendees included Fidelity National, St. Nicholas Guns & Range and Mission BBQ.
Paula Carlisle, CEO of Encompass Health Jacksonville, said the personal stories shared at the event are what make it special.
“I just love hearing the stories of each of the people that we get to talk to. Hearing what their backgrounds were in the military, what they’re doing now whether they’re working now for ONU and starting to support them in some way. Or if there is an opportunity to help them connect with a healthcare organization, because we feel really passionate about the healthcare here in Jacksonville as well,” Carlisle said.
Charlie Fletcher, a retired veteran, said the generosity on display at the event left a lasting impression.
“The number of generous people that come out here and contribute is really heartwarming. And I attended their classes, monitored them and there just — they’re life changing. I’ve watched what they’ve done for the people in the classes and it’s amazing,” Fletcher said.
Organizers say events like these are more than just a fundraiser — they are a day of friendly competition, community and visible support for local veterans.
Operation New Uniform members say past events have raised up to $300,000 to support their programs and help veterans build successful career paths. The organization says its goal is to continue expanding its programs in the years to come.