Leave No Veteran Behind is a nonprofit that aims to help former servicemembers pay for education loans not covered by government programs such as the G.I. Bill.
According to the Christian Science Monitor, the organization was started by two veterans based out of Chicago. They describe their debt-relief system as a "retroactive scholarship." Applicants must prove that they not only performed nobly during their time as a servicemember, but that they currently sustain economic adversity on top of student loan debt. If their application is approved, the veterans are expected to perform 100 hours of volunteer work in exchange for the financial aid.
The source noted that many veterans face issues that contribute to outstanding debts, such as physical and mental disorders, unemployment and false information about what services and benefits they are entitled to. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, veteran unemployment rates hover around 6.6 percent, which is higher than the national average. The Christian Science Monitor noted that the average veteran ends up struggling with $56,000 worth of student loans in life after service.
Currently, the charity receives funding from corporate sponsors, private donations and small grants. They have already been able to give $150,000 worth of aid to veterans and aim to pay the debts of 60 to 90 former soldiers each year.