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Having a car may seem like a basic need for many, but for veterans like Myron Hennen, it makes a monumental difference, especially in the cold expanse of Grand Forks, North Dakota. Facing severe mental health challenges and legal issues, Hennen found himself without a car for 18 months, making his struggles even harder in a rural area where personal transportation is nearly a necessity.

At 68 years old, Hennen’s situation was bleak. Living on a modest Social Security payment in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, he felt isolated and trapped. After his car was impounded and he was assigned to veterans' treatment court, he received his first real help. Through this support system, he met Larry Mendivil Jr., an Air Force veteran who understood the profound importance of having a vehicle.

For Mendivil, transitioning back to civilian life after five military deployments wasn't easy. Homelessness and a rough adjustment period underscored the military's lack of training for post-service life. Recognizing the critical role transportation plays, Mendivil shared his own struggles and achievements with Hennen. Mendivil had a 2007 Honda Accord in need of some major repairs, and he offered to fix it for Hennen without charge—a gesture that would significantly change Hennen’s circumstances.

In the U.S., approximately 4.4 million veterans live in rural areas, with many facing poverty, isolation, and limited access to healthcare. Research has shown that transportation is crucial for veterans' reintegration into civilian life, with personal vehicles being essential for work and healthcare access. Without it, veterans can become isolated, worsening their mental health and other challenges.

Mendivil’s own journey to stability included helping his uncle in a mechanic shop, which led to the founding of his nonprofit, Miracles for Vets, or Mv4. Run on a shoestring budget of less than $50,000 a year, Miracles for Vets has supported around 300 veterans, fixing their cars and donating 45 refurbished vehicles.

The organization operates out of a garage on Dyke Avenue in Grand Forks. Collaborations with suppliers like Auto Glass and Automakers have provided free installations and parts, making the mission sustainable despite limited resources. The Grand Forks Treatment Court also sends mandated workers to contribute, but much of the labor falls to Mendivil and a small team, including his 11-year-old son.

Veterans sometimes gather at the garage, not just for vehicle repairs but for a sense of community. Donald Lapham, a 61-year-old Army reserves veteran, has received assistance for his 2006 GMC Sierra truck, a critical support system given his struggles with depression and mobility.

Mendivil's dedication involves substantial personal investment, with each donated car typically requiring $500 in parts and $2,000 in labor. His hard work is driven by a deep commitment to aiding fellow veterans, emphasizing the significance of maintaining their mobility.

Receiving the repaired 2007 Honda Accord transformed Hennen’s daily life. No longer reliant on public transit, he now enjoys the freedom and convenience of his vehicle. He can run errands easily and plans to visit his three granddaughters, who live 300 miles away, a trip previously unimaginable.

"Having a car in my life gave me a feeling of freedom," Hennen shared, highlighting the profound impact of mobility on his mental and emotional well-being. The experience has restored a sense of independence akin to his younger years, vastly improving his quality of life.