HVAF of Indiana, Inc. joined thousands from around the world for a 3-day veterans reunion

HVAF of Indiana, Inc. joined 5-thousand people in Kokomo, Ind., for the 29th annual Howard County Vietnam Veterans Reunion on September 16-18, 2011. The three-day event featured several bands, speakers, and mini-reunions honoring veterans from all wars with the main focus on those who served during the Vietnam era.

At HVAF's informational booth, staffers distributed handout's and brochures to veterans and families. HVAF's mission is to eliminate homelessness among veterans and families through prevention, education, supportive services, and advocacy.

"Each year the 22-acre field transforms into a mini-city of tents where thousands of veterans and their families come together," says Misha Bennett MSW, case manager at HVAF. "It's a chance for us to share with others what we do at HVAF of Indiana, Inc. as well as answer any questions."

Stand Down event draws hundreds

HVAF of Indiana, Inc. held its annual Stand Down on Thursday, Sept. 8, 2011, at AMVETS Post 99 in Indianapolis, IN.

Year after year dedicated service providers, volunteers, community-based organizations, and representatives from city, county and state agencies join together in a collaborative effort to see that our nation's disadvantaged veterans do not get left behind or forgotten.




Indiana Army National Guard 38th Infantry Divsion headquartered at Stout Field performed Color Guard while Major Lisa Kopczynski with Indiana Army National Guard sang the national anthem.

"Whether it's receiving a free eye exam or a new pair of warm socks, everyone is dedicated to doing what they can to help," says Charles Haenlein, HVAF President and CEO.


Services offered included V.A. medical and mental health counseling, legal assistance, clothing, food and free haircuts.


Stand Down, originally a military term for a time of rest and recovery for exhausted combat units, is now a nationally recognized as community-based, outreach program designed to help the nation's estimated 200,000 homeless veterans "combat" life on the streets.