HVAF Outreach Coordinator reaches veterans in need

This month, we’re highlighting the work of outreach coordinator, Rodney Jackson. Rodney first heard of HVAF through a volunteer coordinator, and has worked with HVAF for two years. He spends his days delivering essentials like hygiene products, as well as food and water to homeless veterans in the community. Jackson builds a rapport with the people he meets and provides information about the programs and services HVAF provides to homeless veterans.

Jackson served in the Navy for 20 years, and now gives back to his fellow brothers and sisters who also served this country. He wants these homeless veterans to know that there are people who care about them, and that there are resources available if they want them. “The way I look at it, I’m just giving back to my family members,” said Jackson.

Volunteer spotlight

Keith C. is a former client of HVAF who now volunteers here. He served our country from 1985 – 1995 and struggled with drug addiction after completing his service in 1995. He first heard of HVAF from an outreach coordinator at one of the homeless shelters he resided in. Thanks to HVAF’s residential, employment, substance abuse treatment (REST) program, Keith was able to sober up and turn his life around.

Keith is going seven years strong in sobriety. “Without the REST program, I would probably be dead,” said Keith. As a thank you to HVAF for helping him regain control of his life, he now volunteers and helps others. 

“I have a passion for my brother veterans and this program,” said Keith. “They [HVAF] helped me know it was OK to open up and talk to people.”

Keith volunteers once or twice a week filling the clothing orders that veterans request. When asked why he volunteers he said, “It gives me a sense of purpose.” We at HVAF are proud of Keith's recovery/sobriety, and find his passion for helping other veterans inspiring.

Veteran receives employment assistance at HVAF

Eddie planned to go to college and play football after high school, but a combination of things quickly changed his mind. Edde instead joined the Marine Corps and served from 1982 – 1985 as a Marine Guard in Concord, CA. Several members of Eddie's family has served in the military, and when his best friend from high school told him he was joining the Marines, Eddie decided to meet with a recruiter. The recruiter won him over, and the rest is history. 

Eddie has always been very family oriented, and one of his favorite things about serving was the bonding he experienced. The men and women he served with became an extension of his family. “I really enjoy being able to protect my country,” said Eddie. “Which also means protecting my family.” 

When he finished his service, he stayed in California for some time and worked as a security guard. Eddie then moved back to Indiana, and received warehouse and factory jobs for several years. He says he got into some trouble with the law and served time in jail. Upon Eddie's release, he experienced difficulties finding work. “People are hesitant to hire those who have been in and out of jail,” adds Eddie. 

Without work, Eddie eventually lost everything. He was sleeping in his car that no longer worked and needed repairs, and found himself in one of the shelters downtown. Eddie first heard of HVAF in 2013 through a friend. He entered HVAF’s transitional housing program and called the Donald W. Moreau, Sr. Veterans House home where he lived for over a year. 

While in transitional housing, Eddie met HVAF’s Employment Coordinator, Kevin Hillman. Eddie had previous work experience in the kitchen of a couple restaurants. He’s held every position in the kitchen from dishwasher to manager. Kevin knew of an opportunity at Scotty’s Brewhouse in downtown Indianapolis and contacted the General Manager. Within 15 minutes, Kevin received a response asking Eddie to come in for an interview. Eddie was hired on the spot, and started work the following day. 

When asked where he would be without HVAF’s assistance Eddie said, “Homeless and still looking for a job at the same time.” He continued to say, “You guys have really helped me get back on my feet. I’m glad I found HVAF. Honestly, I wish I found it sooner.” 
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Students give back at HVAF

This month, HVAF and Group Mission Trips partnered together to further help Hoosier Veterans. Group Mission Trips (GMT) is a nonprofit faith-based organization that offers service experiences that further build a person’s relationship with a higher faith. For four days, a group of 25 teenagers from Clemmons, North Carolina gave back to HVAF and its veterans.

One volunteer, Victoria Lopez, was very excited to be part of this mission trip. Not only was this her first travel mission trip, but it also fell on her 17th birthday. “Everyone in my group was super excited to be assigned HVAF,” said Lopez. “Because we all know a veteran in some way, and wanted to give back to them.”

Lopez’s grandpa served in Vietnam, and her step-father assisted with clean up after Pearl Harbor. When asked why volunteering is important to her, Lopez said, “It sets an example to others of how we should be, and to show your community that you care without getting anything in return.”

Her favorite experience at the time of the interview, was cleaning up the kitchen in one of HVAF’s transitional houses. “It’s exciting knowing that veterans have a fresh and updated space to use now,” said Lopez. We at HVAF of Indiana are grateful for people like Lopez and organizations like GMT. Their dedication and passion are great reminders of how we can always help others.

Veteran in Boone County gets relief from HVAF

Charles with new bike provided for by HVAF

Charles has always known that he wanted to travel the world. That was the main reason he joined and served the U.S. Navy from 1979 – 1983. Spain and Greece were some of his favorite locations, but he enjoyed being able to travel in general. Charles held a job in navigation on Aircraft Carrier, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower during his time in the Navy. Charles finished his service in 1983 and things were going well for him - until 2002.

His heart problems began 15 years ago. He went to the doctor and was informed that he had two silent heart attacks. Shortly after, he had his first major heart attack. Charles has since had seven bypass surgeries and can no long work. He went from having a steady job and paycheck to virtually nothing. He now barely survives on disability. After being unable to work, he lost his wife, car, and eventually everything else. Charles managed to scrape enough money to afford a trailer. However, the trailer was in bad condition and the pipes were breaking from rust. Enough was enough for Charles.

Three months ago, he reached out to HVAF for assistance with rent and finding a suitable place to live. HVAF helped Charles find a place in Lebanon, and paid his first month’s rent and security deposit. He also received a bike from HVAF. “The bike really helps me out,” said Charles. “It helps me get to all my doctor appointments and get exercise as well!” Without HVAF’s assistance Charles might not be around today. “I would probably be homeless or dead,” said Charles. “I take insulin that has to be refrigerated. It wouldn’t have been good if HVAF didn’t help.” Charles is thankful for all HVAF has done to improve his life.

Veteran success story

When Ray was a child, he was more interested in playing solider than cowboys and Indians. When he turned 27 he decided to join the National Guard and turned his childhood playtime into a reality. Ray served in the Indiana National Guard from 1987-1989, and the National Guard at Desert Storm in 1992. Ray liked being part of a “well-oiled” group. “There is nothing like hearing the steps of soldiers in perfect time,” said Ray. From his twin brother to his uncles and now his son, a passion for serving their country runs in Ray’s family. However, being in the National Guard took an emotional toll on Ray. He dearly missed his family, and struggled being away from his late wife who had multiple sclerosis.

Years later, Ray left Alabama and returned to his hometown of Indianapolis, but had nowhere to go. For an entire year, Ray couch-surfed and resorted to sleeping in parks when a couch wasn’t available. Ray continued doing this until the beginning of 2016, when a friend of his mentioned HVAF. Within a week of coming to HVAF, Ray was placed in housing and finally found a place to call home. Ray moved from HVAF housing into his own house with his daughter, granddaughter and grandson this past May. Thanks to many people at HVAF, Ray’s life has drastically improved since he first returned to Indianapolis. 

Employment partnership helps veterans at HVAF

Jonathan Hunter first heard about HVAF through its Employment Specialist, Kevin Hillman. The two met at a job fair and chatted for a little bit. Jonathan was looking for more employees at Two Men and a Truck, and Kevin knew of veterans looking for a job. The two decided to partner up and help each other out.

Jonathan has attended both of HVAF’s veteran-only job fairs. He informs HVAF’s veterans what Two Men and a Truck are looking for in potential employees. “Strong work ethic, punctuality and leadership abilities make you a good candidate,” said Jonathan. “I usually inform potential employees of the lifting requirements as well.” Jonathan is still looking for more help at Two Men and a Truck, and currently has “Moving” and “Driving” positions available. Two Men and a Truck holds open interviews every Tuesday and Thursday at 3 p.m. Veterans are to bring their résumés and interviewing skills to any three of these locations:

·         11787 Technology Dr., Fishers, IN

·         5777 Decatur Blvd., Indianapolis, IN

·         1365 Sadlier South Circle Dr., Indianapolis, IN

Army veteran lands job

Ronda in housing

Ronda F. made a near 19-year career out of serving her country. Almost eight years of that time was active duty.  Ronda married and had 4 children ages 2-8. She says she endured mental and emotional abuse from her then husband. She knew she had to escape. Ronda had an associate’s degree but wanted to get her bachelor’s degree. Higher education is one of the many bonuses and perks of serving her country, so she did just that.

She worked in many areas of the US Army, but one of the most rewarding work she experienced was her role as Awards Clerk for NATO. She learned a lot about herself. She was able to spend time with the Joint Force Headquarters in Pristina, Kosovo and met with them once every two weeks. Being able to meet high-ranking people like colonels and majors was an honor and privilege. She never would have dreamed she would be doing such important work and accomplish so much in 7 months. The networking opportunities were “enlightening.”

However, Ronda says she wasn’t making a lot of money and her home life was suffering. She left her husband for fear of the relationship becoming volatile. Ronda had heard of HVAF. “In many ways, HVAF provided me a sense of security—not knowing where you’re going to live is frightening. Other helpful programs, financial planning for instance, is helping me get my own finances in order.” Dorian LaMotte, Ronda’s case manager, is in contact with Ronda every day. Alberta Platt, Ronda’s employment specialist, found Ronda a job in one day. Alberta had contacts with Bluegreen Resort and there was an interview and job hire the same day. “I’m very appreciative of that,” said Ronda.

HVAF has been helping Ronda with rent on her new beloved home. 

Veteran gets a new start

Schon P. began serving in the Navy in 1988. He always dreamed of traveling to different places and wanted to serve his country. One of Schon’s favorite experiences about being in the military was Basic Training in San Diego. “It was fun, he said. Kind of like mind games.” Being away from home was hard for Schon. He missed his friends and family and being in familiar places.

Schon had been sleeping on the streets in Evansville for two years. He says he was addicted to drugs and didn’t have a job, license or car. A friend of Schon’s paid another friend $120 to drive Schon up to Indianapolis where he would go to rehab. The friend bought him a nice dinner and paid for the hotel room that night. Schon was dropped off at Fairbanks Alcohol & Drug Addiction Treatment Center the next morning.

While in Indy, Schon started asking around about organizations that helped veterans and found HVAF. He is very thankful for everything HVAF has done. “I’ve come a long way since living on the streets.” He worked with Kevin Hillman, HVAF’s employment coordinator. Schon has been saving up money to buy a car. He believes he will be moving out of HVAF’s Moreau housing fairly soon and into his own place. In February 2017, Schon started working at 3M in Indianapolis. He is thankful for a fresh start.

Upcoming event - Volunteer to raise funds for HVAF

Join the Knights of Columbus Post #5290 and VFW Post # 7119 and #261 as they raise money and awareness for HVAF. PatriotFest will be held on June 17 at the VFW Post # 7119 on 6535 N. Lee Road from 2 p.m.- 12 a.m. There will be food, live music, activities and prizes - a great way to spend your Saturday afternoon. Also, a car show will take place from 12:00 p.m.- 2:30 p.m. If you want to show-off your car, registration is from 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. People’s Choice Award will be given to the top five cars. The entry fee is $10 and non-perishable food items. For more information, call Micah Sutton (317) 829- 4258 or Danny Lesley (317) 701-7883.

Veteran makes strides through HVAF employment services

Lew at HVAF

Lew served in the Air Force from 1986-1990. As a young adult, he was looking for direction in his life and thought what better way than to serve his country. He was a part of the MAC Military Airlift Command. After finishing up his military duty, Lew worked to get his BA in Marketing and minored in Economics. After college, he worked for General Electric, Stuart Warner and a few other companies and found a “knack” for sales. After going through a rough time of divorcing his wife and losing his father, Lew turned to alcohol. He had three DUIs and eventually got into an accident in which, luckily, no one was hurt. He spent three years in prison. He reached out to HVAF in 2013, one of the lowest years of his life. 

“When I was going through the rocky 3 years [2013-2016] of my life, I needed a place to stay and I was trying to figure out how I’m going to do this. I have a good support system with family, but found strong support from HVAF,” Lew said.

Lew believes he would be in a day shelter if it wasn’t for the excellent staff at HVAF. HVAF Employment Specialist Kiara Walker assisted Lew in finding the job he has now. “Lew had a vision of where he wanted to work and the salary he felt would be a livable wage. He did not give up until he felt all of his needs were satisfied. I enjoyed working with Lew,” says Kiara. Lew currently works for Dickinson Fleet Services as the Purchasing Assistant in which he finds great purpose.

Homeless veteran finds permanent housing with help from HVAF

Tom, 59, served in the Air Force from 1977-81. The California native liked working on airplanes. On October 6, 2006, life as he knew it changed. Tom was hit by a bus on the streets of Indianapolis. He spent 6 months at the VA hospital and had 3 operations. He lost his left leg and is confined to a wheelchair. He spent 2 years in a nursing home. He couldn’t find work and he became homeless. HVAF’s Outreach Worker Rodney Jackson talked to him about the programs and services our organization has to offer. It took time to build trust.

Once Tom was ready to come in from the elements, we provided him a warm bed for the weekend.

“There was still hope in his eyes. He was crying because he had nowhere to go,” said Housing Specialist William Najera about his client, Tom. On Thursday, March 30, Tom ready to come in from off the streets but didn’t want to go into transitional housing. William talked Partners in Housing, who to advocate for Tom. The following Tuesday, Tom was moved in. His eyes watered a bit when signing the lease.  “Seeing Tom from beginning to end was a complete turnaround,” William said.

Tom still faces many battles and demons. The amputee still feels a lot of pain. Physical pain. Emotional pain. He can no longer work at a factory as a forklift operator which he enjoyed for over 3 decades. He struggles to find meaning and purpose in life. His pride is shattered. But for Tom, each day matters. You can hear happiness in his laughter.

Housing service provides relief for one homeless veteran

Frank S. at work

“If you are willing to help yourself, HVAF will help you,” Frank, 52, said. He served in the Marine Corps from June 1983- August 1987.  After serving in the military, he received his associate’s and bachelor’s degrees along with several certifications. Frank landed a job in TSA and traveled to various airports. He was stationed at the O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, IL acting as a Screening Manager. Years later, Frank found himself relocating to Indianapolis. In August 2016 after Frank’s car had been repossessed, he lost his job and began receiving unemployment. Frank says he was unemployed because he was overqualified for the jobs he was applying for. Frank was living in a motel off of Post Road in Indianapolis at the time of researching veteran assistance programs. He discovered HVAF and his life changed. Kalisha Hayes, his housing specialist, helped him with whatever he needed including housing, food and employment assistance. HVAF helped him enroll for VA insurance and now he has proper medical care. He is employed at Caito Foods Services as a Production Supervisor. He lives in HVAF’s Carson Apartments with a goal to move out within 90 days.

Case Manager links veteran to resources

Tony M. couldn’t find a job out of high school so he turned to the Marines. He served from 1983-1987.  “To be honest, Rambo was hot, and I wanted to carry a pack and shoot a gun,” Tony said. He faced many physical challenges such as staying in shape and the stress of the job got to him emotionally.  After serving, Tony turned to alcohol to solve his problems. His mother, who he was living with at the time, had terminal cancer. After she passed away, the property was sold, and Tony knew he had to do something. He contacted the VA who referred him to HVAF. Tony couldn’t say enough nice things about HVAF, especially about the people who worked with him. His case manager, Brian Andree, encouraged him to stay on track and directed him to the help. “After finding HVAF, there was a tiny light at the end of the tunnel—something I hadn’t seen in a long time,” Tony expressed. HVAF has given Tony time to reflect and think about his life. Tony lives in Carson Apartments and works at the Walmart Distribution Center in Plainfield. He is a true success story.

The Difficult Transition from Military to Civilian Life

James B. at HVAF

James B. served in the Air Force from the mid 1980s to early 1990s. James wanted to travel the world and fly, and he did just that. He’s been all over the world including Great Britain, Germany and Scotland. The actual war part of being in the military was hardest for James. “I always had to be ready to go,” he said. After serving, James also struggled with homelessness.  He was stressed and unable to cope mentally with coming back to the real world. A friend of his searched for veteran programs and came across HVAF. James contacted HVAF in July 2015 and was provided services within the week. He remembers the first day he came to HVAF. “It was raining, and all I had was a bicycle with a red cart on it. It had all of my things in it,” he said.  James now credits his turn around to his Case Manager. Brian Andree is constantly reaching to James to make sure he is okay. He helped James become a more positive person and change his life. James didn’t have a backup plan, but Andree helped him reach his goal. James thanks HVAF for making him more optimistic and resilient. He moved out of Carson Apartments in March and into his apartment and works for AT&T Directv.

Bike donation helps homeless veteran at HVAF

When C.W. was asked about receiving his bike, his eyes lit up. The Army veteran rides his bike to and from Denison Parking where he works. The bike has given C.W. more than he could have ever imagined: freedom and health. C.W. finally feels a freedom he hasn’t felt in a long time. “I’m able to go wherever I want, whenever I want,” he explained. The bike helps him get to his destination more quickly and efficiently. His new ride is a Genesis Bike with all the bells and whistles. With the help of this bike, C.W. is moving forward and working toward his goal, which is taking on more responsibility and taking action every day to better his lifestyle. C.W. also mentioned the health benefits of riding his bicycle. Prior to HVAF, C.W. was an alcoholic, and the bike helps him sweat out any tendencies he is feeling.  He’s getting back into shape by working different muscles. He feels like an overall healthier person.  

HVAF Case Manager connects veteran with services

“I’ve always been the type of person who wanted acceptance to make sure people were taken care of,” Ellen M. said. She served in the Army from 1990- 2013. Ellen wanted to be a part of something bigger than herself—the military.  She was looking for a purpose in life.  Her story about choosing the Army is interesting. Originally, Ellen wanted to join the Air Force. She went to Danville, IL to the recruiting station and the Air Force recruiters were off to lunch. An Army recruiter approached her and the rest is history. Ellen appreciated the cohesiveness of the Army. She faced many challenges, especially after she started to have kids. The military helped her learn research skills, which lead to her research veteran support organizations. Since Ellen started having trouble paying her rent last November, she turned to the Military Family Relief Fund and other resources to help her out. The Military Family Relief Fund referred her to HVAF.  Although Ellen was never homeless, she believes she would be homeless without HVAF’s efforts. Adam Velazquez, her case manager, went above and beyond to help Ellen out. “He connected with me and got me help right away,” she said. Ellen currently works at Aspire/InteCare and Great Clips on the weekends.

Homeless veteran lands job with help from HVAF

Jared, a 31-year-old Army veteran, finds employment with help from HVAF. He came to HVAF in November 2016 in need of housing and recovery. Listen to his story here...

Near homeless veteran turns to law school for fresh start

Anthony, 53, served in the Navy from 1982-1983 on the USS Mount Baker. There is a long-standing family history of joining the military. His dad, brother and son have all been enlisted. One of the biggest joys of joining the Navy was visiting 15 countries. The military molded Anthony into the person he is today. He strives to reach a standard of excellence, discipline, and uniformity. Anthony was near homeless and was in need of assistance after he had taken in and supported his three grandchildren. HVAF helped him move into permanent housing, provided him a washer and dryer, and made sure his grandkids were provided for at Christmas. “HVAF lifted the weight and continue to care about me. They went well beyond what I ever imagined,” he said. Currently, Anthony is a law student at U of Indy and looks back at HVAF as the cornerstone of his current success.

Army veteran finds hope at HVAF through housing assistance

“Serving for your country is honorable,” said Mark, 54. He served in the Army from November 1985- May 1987. Mark, who is from Gary, Indiana, knew the economy was stagnant and felt like his best option was to go into the military. The military taught Mark life skills that made him able to support himself.  He came across HVAF when he learned of our services through the VA. He was unemployed for intermittent times in his life and worked odd jobs including warehouse work. Mark says HVAF provided him a roof over his head and a warm bed. He received meals and other living essentials at the Carson Apartments where he stayed for one year. HVAF also helped him qualify for the Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program which allowed him to receive rental assistance as he transitioned out of supportive housing and into permanent housing. “HVAF’s housing program basically saved my life,” says Mark. Mark is a true success story. He tries to stay positive and takes one minute at a time each day.