Restoring a Historic Landmark.
Empowering Veterans. Building Community.

The Community Problem

A once-vital building sits empty and forgotten
District 1 has no active community center
Restoration efforts failed without funding
Residents lack a place to gather, learn & belong

The Shared Solution

Veteran and youth construction training
Skill-building and certifications
Workshops, volunteer days, and public events
A place to connect, learn, and serve

What the Center Will Offer

A public-private effort to revive the site.
Creates space for training, support, and growth.
Unites veterans and neighbors in purpose.
A lasting model built on shared investment.

The Switzerland Initiative:
A Connected Model for Veteran Stability & Success

This presentation was created as part of Erick Saks’ fellowship with the George W. Bush Institute’s Veterans Leadership Program, a national initiative that equips post-9/11 veteran leaders to strengthen their communities.

It introduces the vision, purpose, and impact of the Switzerland Initiative — a community and training hub designed to expand Operation Lifeline’s work for veterans and local families.