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90.5 WESA Celebrates People Making A Difference

Western Pennsylvania has a strong tradition of neighborhood, personal and community commitment. Our pride in pulling together goes far beyond supporting our deep-rooted sports teams. 90.5 WESA Celebrates People Making a Difference honors the individuals that are making a difference in people's lives on the ground level and reminding us we are all truly a part of each other's lives.This special series, supported by UPMC, will highlight, honor and celebrate Western Pennsylvanians who are unsung heroes daring to make a difference to others in our community.00000176-e6f7-dce8-adff-f6f770c8000000000176-e6f7-dce8-adff-f6f770ca000000000176-e6f7-dce8-adff-f6f770cc000090.5 WESA PA listening area counties:Allegheny, Beaver, Washington, Westmoreland, Butler, Armstrong, Cambria, Somerset, Bedford, Fayette, Indiana00000176-e6f7-dce8-adff-f6f770cd0000This project is made possible by a generous contribution from UPMC.

Al Mercer, Helping Vets Bridge The Gap To Civilian Life

90.5 WESA | By WESA Staff

Published March 21, 2014 at 3:30 AM EDT

Read and listen to a story about Al Mercer as part of a series honoring the individuals who make a difference in people’s lives: 90.5 WESA Celebrates People Making a Difference.

As a veteran, the transition back to civilian life is wrought with challenges. Al understands that all too well and has made it his mission to help.

Al spent 22 years in the Navy before returning to civilian life and later becaming president of a successful tech company.

But seven years ago, he decided to follow his passion and serve again, as executive director of the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania, taking on a struggling organization in need of much help.