News

Oct 18, 2024

Empowering Veteran Spouses: The COMMIT Foundation Sponsors Workshop in DC

WASHINGTON – The COMMIT Foundation held a military spouse transition workshop hosted by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in...

WASHINGTON – The COMMIT Foundation held a military spouse transition workshop hosted by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in Washington, D.C., October 9-10. The workshop brought together military and veteran spouses for a transformative experience that addressed the unique challenges they face during their families’ transitions from military to civilian life. The workshop took place over two days and was designed to provide a blend of practical resources, community support, and personal growth sessions for those navigating the complex shifts often accompanying their partners' return to civilian life. “The spouse component of COMMIT came at just the right time for me,” said Nija Bernard, a transitioning spouse whose husband is about to retire from the Air Force. “The information offered during group sessions and during my private sessions with my coach gave me a new sense of confidence and offered a bevy of ideas,”. The workshop is a crucial component of the services provided to the spouses of those who have served. Commitment to military spouses is about recognizing the full spectrum of transition within a family. The journey of a military spouse is profound and complex, encompassing much more than a change of address or a new job. Participants praised the event for its personalized approach and the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences. Many attendees found the sessions on identity and purpose particularly impactful, as they provided tools to help them redefine their roles and find fulfillment outside of the military community. Bernard agreed, “COMMIT helped me identify where I was in the transition phase, they gave me voice and they helped me look forward to what is to come for both me and my spouse. I am so grateful." The workshop is part of The COMMIT Foundation’s ongoing efforts to support the entire family in the transition process. The foundation has plans to hold additional workshops in various locations across the country to reach more veteran families. “Spouses are often the unsung heroes of the transition process,” said Meagan Thrift, VP of Program Integration and Engagement at COMMIT and a military spouse. “This workshop is about providing them with resources, a supportive community, and, most importantly, a space where they can feel seen and understood.”

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  • Oct 17, 2024

    COMMIT Foundation Awarded VA Grant to Empower Veterans and Spouses in Career Transitions

    Thank you, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), for entrusting COMMIT with continuing to prioritize the people who serve this nation! The COMMIT Foundation is proud to share that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), recognizing the impactful work we do, selected COMMIT as one of the grant recipients of its Veteran and Spouse Transitional Assistance Grant Program. The grant program is a $5 million initiative to support organizations that provide career transition resources and tools to support military service members, veterans, and their spouses as they transition back to civilian life. COMMIT was one of thirteen awarded organizations and will use the funding to provide high-touch, values-based personalized support to high-performing veterans and spouses, helping them navigate the challenges of transitioning out of service and designing lives of purpose. "Our mission has always been about more than just offering resources; it’s about designing personalized, meaningful pathways that empower those who have served," said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. "By partnering with the VA and other forward-thinking organizations, we’re committed to staying on the cutting edge of veteran transition support, constantly innovating to meet the unique needs of every individual we serve. Together we’re not just strengthening the ecosystem – we’re transforming it for a stronger, more connected future for high-potential veterans and their families." This first-of-its-kind program, aimed at helping veterans and their spouses transition from military to civilian life, highlights the VA's continued dedication to addressing the unique challenges veterans and their families face.

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  • Sep 27, 2024

    The COMMIT Foundation Partners with Exray to Launch New Store Offering Casual and Professional Apparel

    September 2024 – MontanaThe COMMIT Foundation, a national leader in high-potential service member transition support, has announced a new partnership with Exray, an apparel company known for its mission-driven approach to high-quality clothing and gear. Together, the organizations have launched a new online store offering a range of casual and professional apparel tailored to the needs of COMMIT’s unique and high-potential community. The store, which is available to the public through COMMIT’s website, features a selection of clothing and gear designed to support veterans and their families as they transition into new careers and leadership roles. The store will provide not only versatile everyday wear but also attire suitable for professional environments. The product line reflects the casual and professional needs of those served by COMMIT, a demographic that includes service members, veterans, the non-DoD intelligence community, and their spouses. A Mission-Driven Partnership The partnership with Exray is the latest in COMMIT’s ongoing efforts to align with like-minded organizations that share its mission of supporting veterans and their families and making a positive impact on the world around them. The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to creating purpose-driven, high-quality products that cater to the needs of individuals transitioning into civilian life while maintaining the sense of service and leadership that defined their time in service. “We are incredibly proud to partner with Exray on this new initiative,” said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. “This store isn’t just about apparel; it’s about representing the tribe we’ve built. Our community is full of leaders, innovators, and service-oriented individuals who are making a real impact. We want them to have something that symbolizes that. And if there’s something they need that we don’t yet offer, we’re committed to adding it.” Empowering Veterans Through Apparel The store's launch marks an important step in COMMIT’s broader strategy to empower high-potential individuals and their families beyond their time serving the country. The organization is widely recognized for its tailored programs that help these high-potential individuals and their families find personal and professional purpose after their time in uniform. The apparel line offers a tangible way for members of the COMMIT community to demonstrate their pride in being part of a tribe dedicated to continued service, leadership, and impact. “Clothing is personal, but it can also be powerful,” Glick added. “Wearing something that connects you to a mission and a community can remind you that you are part of something bigger than yourself.” Exray’s Role in the Partnership Exray, which has built a reputation for creating durable, stylish, and mission-driven apparel, is an ideal partner for this venture. Known for its commitment to quality and community, Exray has designed the clothing line to be practical, versatile, and reflective of the high standards held by both The COMMIT Foundation and the individuals it serves. “We’re honored to work with COMMIT,” said Mike Gnoffo, the owner of Exray. “We believe in their mission and in the incredible individuals they serve. This partnership allows us to support their community in a new way.” An Invitation to the Community The COMMIT Foundation encourages anyone interested to visit the store, explore the product line, and support the movement by sporting the brand. A portion of all sales go to the foundation to allow it to continue its mission. Looking Ahead The partnership with Exray is just one of the many ways COMMIT continues to expand its offerings and strengthen its commitment to its core mission: empowering high-potential individuals who have served and their families to create purposeful and fulfilling transitions into civilian life. As the organization grows, so does its impact, with thousands of individuals already benefiting from its programs and resources. The new store is seen as an extension of that mission, offering a practical yet meaningful way for individuals to stay connected to the COMMIT community while showcasing their pride in being part of an elite group of service-oriented leaders. The COMMIT store is now live and available to all on the foundation’s official website.

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  • Sep 26, 2024

    The Often Overlooked Transition: Focusing on the Service Member’s Spouse

    When we think about the transition from military to civilian life, our thoughts often gravitate toward the service members themselves. It's a monumental shift—moving from a structured, purpose-driven existence within the military to navigating the freedoms and challenges of civilian life. Yet, another equally important transition is occurring in tandem, one that deserves equal attention—the transition experienced by the spouses of these service members. The journey of a military spouse is profound and complex, encompassing much more than a change of address or a new job. It's about a transformation of identity, an evolution of roles, and a redefinition of personal aspirations. This transition isn't just about supporting a partner; it's about rediscovering oneself amidst the upheaval. The COMMIT Foundation recognizes this fact and has developed the Spouse Transition Program to support this sometimes overlooked but essential community.“COMMIT helped me identify where I was in the transition phase,” said Nija Bernard, whose husband is transitioning from the Air Force. “COMMIT gave me voice by informing me, and they helped me look forward to what is to come for both me and my spouse.” Through tailored support services, the program encourages spouses to rediscover their passions and ambitions, empowering them to pursue their personal and professional goals alongside their partner. Commitment to the spouses of veterans is about recognizing the full spectrum of transition within a family. It's about understanding that changing routines, identities, and lives affect everyone involved. “The demand for spouse programming was clear among our community, for too long. The narrative has positioned these spouses merely as extensions of their veteran partners,” said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. "We see the transformation of spouses and families as just as crucial to a successful transition as the veteran’s own journey. Their growth and support are key to making the transition impactful for everyone involved." COMMIT has helped nearly 300 spouses navigate their transition since the program began in 2022. “We take great pride in supporting spouses as individuals with their unique challenges and needs," added Glick. "Transitioning out of the military is a journey that impacts everyone differently, and we must recognize the spouse's experience isn't just an extension of the veteran's. They have their path, and we're here to help them navigate it with the support and resources they deserve." The primary goal of the Spouse Transition Program is to assure military spouses that their experiences, emotions, and aspirations are entirely valid and normal. “The program recognizes that spouses often put their aspirations on hold while supporting their service member,” said Julie French, leader of spouse programming at The COMMIT Foundation. “The COMMIT Foundation's program is a transformative resource for military spouses seeking guidance and support during their transition to civilian life.” The program is designed around four live online classes. The four classes cover the key topics of identity, values, values alignment, and telling one's story. Along with the virtual classes, each participant is offered 3-5 coaching sessions with an executive or life coach. In October, COMMIT will hold a spouse transition workshop in Washington D.C. The in-person workshops are relatively new to the program but add significant benefit to the value delivered to spouses. French added, “With the support of dedicated coaches and a comprehensive online dashboard of class assignments, this program empowers military spouses to navigate their transition with confidence and purpose. Through self-reflection and growth, military spouses can confidently navigate their transition journey and embark on a fulfilling new chapter in their lives.” In the end, the success of transitioning veterans is intricately linked to the well-being and fulfillment of everyone involved. Recognizing and supporting these spouses as individuals is not just an act of respect—it's a fundamental component of facilitating successful transitions for those who have served our nation. “At The COMMIT Foundation, we're not just helping individuals transition but also supporting families in redefining their futures together and as individuals,” French concluded.

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  • Sep 25, 2024

    Nobody Walks Alone: A Nationwide Tribe Unites for The COMMIT Foundation

    In a powerful display of camaraderie, grit, and purpose, the Nobody Walks Alone event brought participants from all corners of the country to raise funds and awareness for The COMMIT Foundation. From the shores of Virginia Beach to the streets of Seattle, Long Island, New York, across North Carolina, and we even went international with folks participating in Normandy - teams of passionate individuals came together to prove that nobody walks alone. This incredible event, now an annual tradition, was the brainchild of Michele Olive, our inspiring Vice President of Alumni Affairs. Michele envisioned a way to strengthen the bond between The COMMIT Foundation participants and their support networks while raising critical funds for the foundation, an organization dedicated to helping those who have served, their spouses, and their families transition into meaningful post-service lives. Her vision sparked Nobody Walks Alone, an event that has quickly become a symbol of unity and shared purpose. A new addition to this year's event was The MO, a WOD (Workout of the Day) designed specifically for the occasion. Aptly named after Michele Olive herself, The MO challenged participants to six grueling rounds of 10 pull-ups, 10 clean and presses with dumbbells, and a Âœ-mile run—while carrying extra weight in the form of a vest or ruck. This symbolic load was a reminder that the burdens those who serve carry after their service are never truly light—but with a strong community, no one bears them alone. This year’s Nobody Walks Alone event was our most successful yet! This remarkable achievement, a testament to our collective effort, will go directly to empowering high-potential individuals through The COMMIT Foundation’s mission of building purpose-driven lives post-service. The impact of this event goes beyond the dollars raised. It’s about the tribe that comes together, supporting one another, stepping up to walk, run, and lift side by side, just as they do in life. The physical challenge reflects the emotional and mental challenges our participants face in transition, and it reinforces that we are all in this together. Participants echoed a shared sentiment: We are a tribe. This is the driving spirit of Nobody Walks Alone. Whether you are in Seattle lacing up your boots, running through the sandy trails of Virginia Beach, riding the battlefields of Normandy, or lifting alongside your brothers and sisters in Long Island, you’re connected by a purpose that transcends geography. You’re walking together, even when miles apart. Looking ahead, we want even more people to join this movement. Next year, we’re aiming to increase participation and raise even more for The COMMIT Foundation. And the journey doesn’t stop here. Be on the lookout for other exciting events like the MOG Mile with The Three Rangers Foundation and the Warrior Yomp in Washington D.C. with the Allied Forces Foundation. Each event, every step taken, builds on this momentum—showing those who serve that no matter what, they’ll never walk alone. The potential of this movement is boundless, and we can't wait to see where it takes us. Thank you to every participant, every supporter, and every person who believes in the power of community. Your contributions, whether through participation, donation, or simply spreading the word, are deeply appreciated and have made a significant impact. Let’s keep growing this tribe, one mile, one lift, and one step at a time.

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  • Sep 17, 2024

    Silicon Valley Venture Capital Firm Hosts Workshop for Veterans in Transition

    The atmosphere buzzed with enthusiastic conversation as 18 transitioning service members reimagined their identities with the encouragement of mentors from companies including Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), Capital One, Microsoft and Carta, a Private Equity Firm. The event took place on September 11-12 in Silicon Valley’s Menlo Park, Calif. The two-day workshop is a culmination of work the participants have been doing through The COMMIT Foundation to design their lives after military service and exploring opportunities in their next chapter. As one of several participants, Patrick Salmon, a U.S. Navy fighter pilot and diplomat, who is leaving the military after more than 20 years of service connected with several mentors and discussed steps he was taking to design his post-military life. “The workshop has given me the opportunity to reimagine my next steps,” said Patrick “I am wearing this unicorn pin to keep in mind that anything is possible, and I want to keep the focus on my three young daughters as I explore my next opportunity.” The technology capital venture firm, Andreessen Horowitz, has hosted the workshop for several years and provides the bulk of the mentors working with the transitioning service members. “Andreessen Horowitz gets as much out of these two-day workshops as the veterans,” said Matt Oberhardt, a partner on the Talent Network team at a16z and a board member for The COMMIT Foundation. Mentors brought the energy to Menlo A highlight of every workshop is the incredible mentors that join us to walk beside our transitioning service members. They consistently bring a vast array of talent and wisdom balanced with vulnerability. “This is always a highlight of my year,” said Stephanie Doppelt, partner on the a16z talent team and one of the workshop mentors at the closing reception. “I am so honored to be able to meet these incredible people who have served our nation and protected my freedoms.” “What a blast!” said David Weekly, who runs Capital One's innovation team. David was one of 11 mentors who met with participants of the COMMIT Transition Mentoring Workshop, which was hosted by a16z in Menlo Park last week. David provided invaluable advice and insight to several service mentors exploring entrepreneurship and is ready to stay engaged with COMMIT. Bill Sherrod, who transitioned from the Navy after 29 years of service shared a few thoughts about the workshop. “I joined COMMIT because I wanted to find my ‘why.’ A lot of my purpose was grounded in what I’d done in my military career, and as I looked to transition, I wanted to make sure that I could add value and continue to serve and make a difference.” Sherrod credits COMMIT with helping him, “Having someone walk alongside me during transition was really helpful, and COMMIT did that for me. They helped me rethink what I want to do next.”

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  • Aug 28, 2024

    PenFed Foundation Provides Grant to Support COMMIT Foundation

    Program connects veterans to high-quality positions with employers that need their talent ï»żï»żï»ż Veterans, mentors, and coaches gather in Bozeman, Montana for a COMMIT Foundation Transition Mentoring Workshop. TYSONS, Va., September 3, 2024 – The PenFed Foundation, a national 501(c)3 founded by PenFed Credit Union, announced today that it is providing The COMMIT Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering those who serve and their families, with a grant to support the expansion of COMMIT’s Transition Mentoring Workshops aimed at enhancing the post-service transition experience for veterans and military spouses. The COMMIT Foundation's Transition Mentoring Workshops are designed to address the unique needs of military families, offering mentorship from experienced professionals and resources tailored to individual career and life goals. By fostering connections and providing practical guidance, these workshops empower participants to thrive in their post-military lives. "We are honored to receive this generous grant from the PenFed Foundation's Military Heroes Program," said CEO of The COMMIT Foundation JC Glick. "This funding will allow us to broaden the reach of our workshops, ensuring that more veterans and military spouses receive the critical support they need to successfully transition into post-military life." The COMMIT Foundation's Transition Mentoring Workshops provide personalized support and guidance to veterans and military spouses, helping them navigate the challenges of career transition, professional development and personal growth. The COMMIT Foundation’s mission aligns with The PenFed Foundation’s mission to empower veterans as they transition from military service to success in civilian life. The PenFed Foundation was created in 2001 and has provided more than $55 million in financial support to veterans, active-duty service members, families, and caregivers. "The PenFed Foundation is proud to partner with The COMMIT Foundation and we support their comprehensive high-impact approach to helping America's veterans and military families find personal and professional purpose after service," said PenFed Foundation President Andrea McCarren. Those interested in supporting the PenFed Foundation are encouraged to visit penfedfoundation.org and donations in support of The COMMIT Foundation and its programs can be made here. About The COMMIT Foundation The COMMIT Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering those who serve and their families through personalized programs, resources, and the support of community to create purposeful and fulfilling transitions. Through one-on-one coaching, professional development workshops, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities, The COMMIT Foundation helps veterans navigate the challenges of transitioning to civilian life and build a post-service life of community and purpose. Learn more at commitfoundation.org. About PenFed Foundation Founded in 2001, The PenFed Foundation is a national nonprofit organization that supports veterans in their transition from service to success. Affiliated with PenFed Credit Union, the Foundation has provided more than $55 million in financial support to veterans, active-duty service members and military families. PenFed Credit Union covers the salaries and administrative costs of The PenFed Foundation, so more of your donation goes right to our programs. To learn more, please visit www.penfedfoundation.org.

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  • Jul 30, 2024

    Partnership: COMMIT and 51Vets

    The COMMIT Foundation and 51vets Forge Strategic Partnership to Enhance Support for Veteran The COMMIT Foundation and 51vets are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance the support and services available to veterans. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in providing comprehensive, complementary programs tailored to the unique needs of veterans within their respective networks. Through this partnership, The COMMIT Foundation and 51vets will share valuable resources, including detailed program information and regular updates. This initiative ensures that veterans utilizing services from either organization will have seamless access to a broader range of support and opportunities. “The COMMIT Foundation’s mission is to empower veterans to transition successfully into post-military live, and partnering with 51vets allows us to extend our reach and impact,” said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. “By working together, we can create a robust support system that addresses the diverse needs of our veterans, enhancing their opportunities for growth and success.” 51vets, known for its innovative programs and strong community connections, will join forces with The COMMIT Foundation to develop joint initiatives aimed at addressing specific challenges faced by veterans. These initiatives will focus on career development, mental health support, education, and community integration, ensuring that veterans have access to a holistic support system. “We are thrilled to partner with The COMMIT Foundation,” said Lindsey Schiro, CEO of 51vets. “This collaboration will allow us to combine our strengths and provide a more comprehensive suite of services, making a real difference in the lives of veterans. Together, we are committed to enhancing the resources available to veterans, helping them thrive in all aspects of life.” Both organizations are excited about the potential of this partnership to create innovative solutions and impactful programs that will benefit the veteran community. By leveraging each other’s expertise and networks, The COMMIT Foundation and 51vets are set to make significant strides in supporting veterans on their journey to success. “Both 51Vets and the COMMIT Foundation have been instrumental in my transition from the Navy Special Operations community into the civilian world,” said veteran Matt Byington. “Specifically, the COMMIT Foundation's small group functions and individually tailored program allowed me to integrate these into an already hectic journey. The executive coach provided by COMMIT was fundamental in my exploration of where I think I'd fit best in this next phase of life, and the tech workshop they hosted in Palo Alto gave me the ability and confidence to tell my story in a compelling way. Ultimately, the networks, mentorship and community provided by COMMIT and 51Vets led me to finding a role as a Venture Capital investor at a Tier 1 firm - something I know would not have happened otherwise." For more information about The COMMIT Foundation and its programs, visit commitfoundation.org. To learn more about 51vets and their initiatives, visit 51vets.org. About The COMMIT Foundation The COMMIT Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering those who serve and their families through personalized programs, resources, and the support of community to create purposeful and fulfilling transitions. Through one-on-one coaching, professional development workshops, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities, The COMMIT Foundation helps veterans navigate the challenges of transitioning to civilian life and build a post-service life of community and purpose. Learn more at commitfoundation.org. About 51vets 51 Vets is a nonprofit dedicated to connecting transitioning and transitioned veterans from elite military communities with leading business professionals. With hundreds of Veteran Members and growing, our team enables equivalent success in the private sector and continuing education by providing networking opportunities, business school prep, direct career placement, mentorship, and other resources that are unique to their advanced capabilities and capacities. Learn more at 51vets.org.

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  • Jul 25, 2024

    Intelligence Professionals Day

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 26, 2024 The COMMIT Foundation Expands Services to Non-DoD Members of the Intelligence Community On National Intelligence Professionals Day, The COMMIT Foundation is proud to announce the expansion of its programs and services to non-Department of Defense (DoD) members of the intelligence community. This significant initiative aims to support the quiet heroes who are critical to our national security. “Our nation's intelligence professionals work every day to keep America safe, but we seldom hear about their successes or their sacrifices,” said JC Glick, CEO of The COMMIT Foundation. “These men and women work in silence to protect the nation, deploying to war zones and austere regions of the world. They cannot discuss their work even with their families. They keep our country safe every day, and we thank them for their service to our nation.” The intelligence community, as defined by the National Security Act of 1947, is comprised of a broad spectrum of agencies and elements, including: The Office of the Director of National Intelligence,The Central Intelligence Agency,The National Security Agency,The Defense Intelligence Agency,The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency,The National Reconnaissance Office,Intelligence elements of the military branches,The Federal Bureau of Investigation,The Drug Enforcement Administration, andThe Department of Energy, Department of State, Department of the Treasury, and Department of Homeland Security, among others. The COMMIT Foundation's expansion ensures that non-DOD intelligence professionals now have access to the same comprehensive, personalized support that has benefited many within the Department of Defense. The organization’s holistic approach focuses on self-knowledge, career development, and life planning, offering bespoke solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. “Our commitment to these professionals is unwavering,” continued Glick. “We provide lifetime support, continuously assessing and aligning our services to support their evolving needs throughout their transition process.” For more information about The COMMIT Foundation and its expanded services, please visit commitfoundation.org. About The COMMIT Foundation The COMMIT Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering service members, veterans, and their families through personalized programs, resources, and the support of community to create purposeful and fulfilling transitions. Through one-on-one coaching, professional development workshops, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities, The COMMIT Foundation helps veterans navigate the challenges of transitioning to civilian life and build a post-service life of community and purpose. Learn more at commitfoundation.org.

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  • May 2, 2024

    The COMMIT Foundation is looking for a new Director of Development

    Founded in 2012, The COMMIT Foundation empowers service members, veterans, and their families through personalized programs, resources, and the support of our community to create purposeful and fulfilling transitions. COMMIT believes service members live a post-service life of purpose and build community when they discover their identity, their values and design a life in accordance. The COMMIT Foundation creates a caring and supportive environment that allows service members to pause, assess their goals, and gain clarity by providing personalized coaching, resources, and guidance as they take their next steps. The COMMIT Foundation seeks to add a full-time Director of Development. The Director of Development will play a vital role in assisting in developing and executing fundraising strategies to support COMMIT’s mission of delivering world-class services that will impact the lives of those we serve. This key position requires an innovative, seasoned fundraising professional with a passion for the military community, exceptional communication skills, and a proven track record of securing financial support from diverse sources. This position will report to COMMIT’s Chief Strategy and Integration Officer (CSIO). Click here for the full job description. No longer accepting applications at this time.

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