After more than 42 years of dedicated service, Michael Blecker is stepping down as Executive Director of Swords to Plowshares. Tramecia Garner, formerly the organization’s Chief Operating Officer, has been named his successor and officially takes the helm as Executive Director.
Under Michael’s leadership, Swords to Plowshares has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit, leading efforts to support unhoused and low-income veterans in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Tramecia, who has served as Swords to Plowshares’ Chief Operating Officer since 2020, becomes Executive Director. She joined Swords in 2010 and held several positions focused on residential and housing programs before advancing to COO.
“My journey has been driven by a deep sense of purpose to expand the support system for veterans at every stage. Every day, I witness the powerful tangibility of our work – it is remarkable to see the change made in the lives of veterans through access to veteran-centered wraparound care,” says Tramecia. “I am humbled and excited to lead Swords to Plowshares into its next chapter and will build upon Michael’s legacy to ensure that all veterans receive the support and respect they deserve.”
Since joining the organization in 1976, Michael has been a driving force behind significant policy changes and groundbreaking programs aimed at empowering veterans through housing, legal assistance, employment, and mental health services.
“Serving veterans through Swords to Plowshares has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Over the past fifty years, we have helped thousands of veterans find stability, dignity, and community,” he says. “I’m confident that under Tramecia’s leadership, Swords will continue to grow and deepen its impact on veterans’ lives."
Michael’s tenure has been marked by his relentless advocacy for veteran rights and his commitment to transforming the way veterans are supported, with a focus on creating sustainable, long-term solutions to veteran homelessness and poverty.
Under Michael's stewardship, Swords to Plowshares expanded from a small organization to a powerful voice for veterans’ services, influencing both local and national policy. His leadership helped establish some of the first comprehensive programs for veterans, including supportive housing models and employment assistance programs that have become national standards for veteran care.
Over the past decade, the organization has placed thousands of veterans in stable housing, assisted thousands more with legal services, and provided workforce training and mental health support to countless others.
“Michael’s impact on the veteran community cannot be overstated,” says Keith Boylan, Undersecretary of the California Department of Veterans Affairs. “His tireless advocacy has changed the lives of so many veterans, and his leadership has set a high bar for all of us working in this space.”
As Michael steps down, he will continue to support the organization in an emeritus role, focusing on advocacy and policy efforts to end veteran homelessness nationwide, as well as spending time in Swords’ community settings, listening to and learning from the veterans served by the organization. Swords to Plowshares will remain dedicated to its mission of ensuring that veterans in need receive the care, support, and respect they deserve.
“Swords to Plowshares has long played a unique and critical role in the regional and national veteran services community,” says Kathryn Monet, Chief Executive Officer of the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans. “With the mantle passing from a legend like Michael Blecker to Tramecia’s capable, thoughtful and steady hands, I know Swords will continue to grow and adapt to meet the evolving needs of the most vulnerable veterans.”
“Understandably, veterans can be wary and not trust us immediately – especially if they are women or struggling with mental health conditions. This isn’t only about getting veterans housed; we’re also establishing relationships with them out where they feel the safest – which may be in their tent or on a bench they frequent. It’s worth it to come out here determined to make a connection.” - Tonya Greenlee, Swords’ Outreach
From the streets of San Francisco to behind the barber chair, Zack’s story is one of resilience, community, and second chances – a reminder that with the right support, every veteran has the power to rebuild.
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