The event is devoted to the topic of the reintegration of veterans into civilian life and the role of business and the state in this process. An example of their synergy is the business of veterans who are winners of the #Varto funding program of the UVF. Our colleagues and partners visited them.
Merlion Veterinary Clinic has an excellent reputation. Veteran Oleg Kashlyak takes care of it. It is not surprising that he chose this particular line of business. While he was in the service, he helped vaccinate homeless animals wherever the National Guard of Ukraine served in the ATO. In 2022, the man retired due to his health. At the same time, together with his son, he decided to start his own business. Professional animal health care has become a veteran family business.
American veteran and co-founder of the US-Ukraine Veterans Bridge William Attig warmly supported Oleg’s mission. His belief in the therapeutic influence of four-legged companions in boosting veterans’ morale has deep roots. When William still faces difficulties, his beloved dog always helps to fight stress.
Our colleagues also visited the construction eco-market “WoodBud”, founded by veteran Dmytro Polishchuk. His team is currently working on the automation of processes, and coordination of temperature regimes in the conditions of the threat of blackout. The company is expanding and it supplies its products throughout the territory of Ukraine. Financial support for the veteran business “WoodBud” is provided by the Ukrainian Veterans Foundation of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs.
American veterans William Attig and George Chewning saw with their own eyes the successful projects of #Varto winners. They were sincerely impressed by the perseverance and professionalism of our veterans in conducting business. Battle-hardened, Ukrainian veterans know how to solve non-standard situations, respond coolly to moments of crisis, and work in a team. These skills, acquired during the service, more than once became useful in civilian life. We believe that with such an arsenal of skills and support from the state, the veteran business has wide horizons.
