Driven to Serve: How Mike Kraus Has Expanded Hope Through JAVELAN

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Driven to Serve: How Mike Kraus Has Expanded Hope Through JAVELAN

When he’s not managing the daily demands of serving as COO for three thriving automotive repair shops, Mike Kraus devotes his time and energy to supporting Veterans and first responders through his leadership of the JAVELAN program.

JAVELAN—short for Jack Assisting Veterans Enjoy Life Again—was founded in 2017 to provide funding and training for service dogs to assist Veterans living with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and other physical or emotional challenges. Mike joined the board in 2020 and was unanimously elected director the following year. Under his guidance, JAVELAN expanded its mission by merging with the First Responders Foundation, extending its services to meet the critical needs of both Veterans and first responders in East Central Nebraska and Western Iowa.

Since stepping into this leadership role, Mike has helped JAVELAN significantly broaden its reach. What began as a goal of training six service dog-handler teams annually has now grown into more than 130 successfully trained teams—a nearly threefold increase. Mike’s efforts have boosted awareness, strengthened fundraising, and expanded access to lifesaving support for those who have served their country and communities.

Beyond organizational leadership, Mike is an active ambassador for JAVELAN. He speaks regularly at community events, raising awareness of the mental health crisis among Veterans and first responders—where tragically, an average of 22 Veterans lose their lives to suicide each day. His advocacy reached a national stage in 2024 when he was honored at the First Responders Bowl in Dallas, Texas, alongside a service dog and handler.

Mike’s commitment to both his business and community reflects his deep sense of responsibility and compassion. His work ensures that Veterans and first responders have access to the service dogs and support they need to regain independence, resilience, and quality of life. In recognition of his dedication, Mike received the 2025 Vision Humanitarian Award, underscoring the profound impact of his leadership.

First Responders Foundation

The mission of the First Responders Foundation is to serve and honor all our First Responders, Veterans and their families; build appreciation and respect for their work; and enhance public safety. For more information, visit First Responders Foundation, or contact us.

Driven to Serve: How Mike Kraus Has Expanded Hope Through JAVELAN

Sep 8, 2025

Driven to Serve: How Mike Kraus Has Expanded Hope Through JAVELAN

When he’s not managing the daily demands of serving as COO for three thriving automotive repair shops, Mike Kraus devotes his time and energy to supporting Veterans and first responders through his leadership of the JAVELAN program.

JAVELAN—short for Jack Assisting Veterans Enjoy Life Again—was founded in 2017 to provide funding and training for service dogs to assist Veterans living with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and other physical or emotional challenges. Mike joined the board in 2020 and was unanimously elected director the following year. Under his guidance, JAVELAN expanded its mission by merging with the First Responders Foundation, extending its services to meet the critical needs of both Veterans and first responders in East Central Nebraska and Western Iowa.

Since stepping into this leadership role, Mike has helped JAVELAN significantly broaden its reach. What began as a goal of training six service dog-handler teams annually has now grown into more than 130 successfully trained teams—a nearly threefold increase. Mike’s efforts have boosted awareness, strengthened fundraising, and expanded access to lifesaving support for those who have served their country and communities.

Beyond organizational leadership, Mike is an active ambassador for JAVELAN. He speaks regularly at community events, raising awareness of the mental health crisis among Veterans and first responders—where tragically, an average of 22 Veterans lose their lives to suicide each day. His advocacy reached a national stage in 2024 when he was honored at the First Responders Bowl in Dallas, Texas, alongside a service dog and handler.

Mike’s commitment to both his business and community reflects his deep sense of responsibility and compassion. His work ensures that Veterans and first responders have access to the service dogs and support they need to regain independence, resilience, and quality of life. In recognition of his dedication, Mike received the 2025 Vision Humanitarian Award, underscoring the profound impact of his leadership.

First Responders Foundation

The mission of the First Responders Foundation is to serve and honor all our First Responders, Veterans and their families; build appreciation and respect for their work; and enhance public safety. For more information, visit First Responders Foundation, or contact us.

Driven to Serve: How Mike Kraus Has Expanded Hope Through JAVELAN

Sep 8, 2025

Driven to Serve: How Mike Kraus Has Expanded Hope Through JAVELAN

When he’s not managing the daily demands of serving as COO for three thriving automotive repair shops, Mike Kraus devotes his time and energy to supporting Veterans and first responders through his leadership of the JAVELAN program.

JAVELAN—short for Jack Assisting Veterans Enjoy Life Again—was founded in 2017 to provide funding and training for service dogs to assist Veterans living with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and other physical or emotional challenges. Mike joined the board in 2020 and was unanimously elected director the following year. Under his guidance, JAVELAN expanded its mission by merging with the First Responders Foundation, extending its services to meet the critical needs of both Veterans and first responders in East Central Nebraska and Western Iowa.

Since stepping into this leadership role, Mike has helped JAVELAN significantly broaden its reach. What began as a goal of training six service dog-handler teams annually has now grown into more than 130 successfully trained teams—a nearly threefold increase. Mike’s efforts have boosted awareness, strengthened fundraising, and expanded access to lifesaving support for those who have served their country and communities.

Beyond organizational leadership, Mike is an active ambassador for JAVELAN. He speaks regularly at community events, raising awareness of the mental health crisis among Veterans and first responders—where tragically, an average of 22 Veterans lose their lives to suicide each day. His advocacy reached a national stage in 2024 when he was honored at the First Responders Bowl in Dallas, Texas, alongside a service dog and handler.

Mike’s commitment to both his business and community reflects his deep sense of responsibility and compassion. His work ensures that Veterans and first responders have access to the service dogs and support they need to regain independence, resilience, and quality of life. In recognition of his dedication, Mike received the 2025 Vision Humanitarian Award, underscoring the profound impact of his leadership.

First Responders Foundation

The mission of the First Responders Foundation is to serve and honor all our First Responders, Veterans and their families; build appreciation and respect for their work; and enhance public safety. For more information, visit First Responders Foundation, or contact us.

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