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

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.

American Legion gives back to HVAF

HVAF is appreciative for the commitment of the American Legion Auxiliary to our homeless veterans.  Rita Ellis, American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) 7th District President, visited HVAF in early November. She shared what she learned about HVAF with the ALA Presidents in the 7th District including Phyllis Banks, ALA Unit 479 President. Phyllis then shared the information with her daughter, Kari Shelton, who created a sock drive as a Veterans Day related educational activity for her students at Sugar Creek Elementary. Kari collected 756 socks and Phyllis delivered them to our HVAF headquarters. We were particularly moved by the effort to educate elementary students about who veterans are and what they contribute to defending and preserving our American freedoms and way of life.

Scott's Story - HVAF veteran impact

A grassy spot along Shadeland Avenue and 38^th Street was once home to Scott S. until a concerned passerby decided to give the veteran a needed hand up. Before the help, he bounced around, staying at hotels and on the streets after his service in the U.S. Navy ended in 1978. Scott, a welder by trade, was also a trained firefighter in the Navy.

Scott in permanent housing

“I came from a large family and I wanted to form my own identify and so I joined the Navy in hopes of traveling the world and experiencing a different way of life,” adds Scott.

After his discharge he married and had kids, but put college on hold and found work. He worked several odd jobs. As a civilian, Scott found jobs that seemed to end too soon. The factory where he worked for 10 years had been a consistent in his life, but when Scott suffered an off-the-job injury it ended up in job loss. He couldn’t afford rent. Scott did not know where to turn or how to get the help that he needed. A friend suggested he call HVAF of Indiana and in October 2014 he did just that.

“I was down and out at the time and didn’t have a place to stay or a job and since I was a veteran, I applied for HVAF housing and thankfully they had an opening at the Carson property,” adds Scott.

HVAF houses more than 200 homeless veterans each night.

“Consistency is one of the most important elements in searching for employment and Scott never gave up! He continued to actively submit applications, attend job fairs, and meet with his Employment Specialist on a regular basis,” says Chasiti Herring, MSW coordinator, veteran employment services.

At HVAF, Scott received additional help with getting back on his feet. He received help with employment services. Employment specialists helped create a resume detailing his skills which showed his prior commitment and dedication to the roles he served. In January, he was hired on as a property manager where he is now in charge of responding to maintenance calls as well as manning cameras at the property. Scott credits HVAF for helping him achieve employment.

Navy veteran’s financial struggles at home

Gary at HVAF

Many veterans return from serving in the military to face enormous financial burdens. Gary T., 52, is no different. In the mid-80’s he joined the U.S. Navy and worked as a Radar Operator managing tactical and navigational charts. After serving, he moved back home to Indianapolis to be nearer to his four children.

“The transition home was kind of rough for me because l had a hard time finding work and I wasn’t sure what I was going to do,” says Gary who experienced intermittent homelessness for two years. “I eventually used the skills from my degree in college but even those jobs in architectural drafting were few and far between.” 

In 2014, Gary ran out of money and began sleeping in his car. He was referred to HVAF by the VA. In June 2015, he met with Fred Young, HVAF’s Residential, Employment and Substance Abuse (REST) Coordinator, to begin his journey of sobriety. HVAF not only provided him with a warm bed, food, clothing and hygiene items, but more than he could imagine.

Gary was housed first. Then, his next hurdle was to get his finances in order. Years of child support had put a financial burden on his life and prevented him from gaining the sense of security and stability he needed to move forward.

Carlton Martin, Staff Attorney with the Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic, an HVAF partner agency, is in the beginning stages of working with Gary to sort through his financial responsibilities which is something Gary says he couldn’t do alone.

“I was able to organize all of my old debts and file ten years of back taxes to avoid legal trouble,” adds Gary. “When I was homeless I had rejected my financial responsibilities while I was out on the streets.”

He is now empowered with the legal guidance he has received and is thankful to be working full-time at the VA Hospital.

“I finally feel that I am accountable for things and I have more control over my life.”

Gary talks about his struggles in his own words:
https://animoto.com/play/htAWVqXIAALa9jLDYYMplg

Local truck club helps homeless veterans

The sound of pick-up trucks could be heard rumbling into the parking lot at HVAF on January 24. You could hear them coming from blocks away. Twenty-three pickup trucks in all converged in the parking lot with a donation for homeless veterans. Fifty members of the Diesel Mafia of Indiana, an Indianapolis-based truck club, delivered much-needed winter essentials. Hunter Stopes, Vice President of Diesel Mafia of Indiana, first learned of the need through HVAF’s HR Coordinator Sammy Mitchell and sprung to action by gathering the group to collect items. As a result, fifteen veterans in HVAF’s recovery program received hats, gloves and other items.

The truck club, which was formed September 2014, prioritizes which charity to support each year. When the group learned about HVAF, donations poured in from around the state.

“It saddens me to learn that some of the men and women who fight so I that I can have clothes on my body, a roof over my head, and be able to live in freedom are homeless,” says Hunter. “To hear they cannot stay warm or have a home to go to considering they fought for us is frustrating. We are glad to be of help in their time of need.”

View the story on WISH-TV: http://wishtv.com/2016/01/23/homeless-veterans-assistance-group-gets-truckloads-of-supplies/

Diesel Mafia of Indiana

Volunteer spotlight – Jacob Collins gives back at HVAF

Jacob Collins

On an average morning Jacob Collins writes a paper, works on a biology lesson and emails family and friends. His afternoons are just as busy as he juggles classes and a volunteer internship at HVAF. Ask him why he does it and he’ll tell you that the veterans he has helped – and hopes to help – keep him going. Collins, a senior at Franklin College, is volunteering at HVAF twice a week for the semester sorting donations and doing whatever is most needed.

During Collins’ time as a student at the Franklin College, he realized that what meant the most to him was giving back.

“I had three uncles who served in the military as well as cousins. I remember looking at photos and hearing stories of my family members serving in the military,” says Jacob. “I have a greater appreciation and understanding of the sacrifices our veterans make and I’m really excited about helping out at HVAF,” Jacob says.

Although his internship is in the early stages, Jacob hopes to engage with the veterans during his time here. On stressful days, Jacob thinks about his family of “heroes” and the sacrifices they made for our freedoms today.

“A lot of times we, as students, don’t necessarily see the importance in believing in something greater than yourself and so the sacrifices made to make our country great should not be taken for granted,” adds Jacob.

Employee spotlight - Curtis Wiliamson

Each veteran who walks through the doors of the Residential, Employment, Substance Abuse Treatment program known as REST opens up to share a part of his past with Social Worker Curtis Williamson. Whether they have experienced bouts of joblessness, untreated illnesses, or addiction, they all have experienced chronic homelessness.

Curtis Williamson (left) with HVAF clients

With the support of Curtis and the REST program, these former soldiers are able to surmount challenges and re-enter the workforce after military service and/or find permanent housing.

At a recent recovery program graduation one man said he slept under a bridge until he got the help he needed. He got help at HVAF under Curtis’s guidance. The veterans who tell their storiesof completing the program speak with clarity, pride and wisdom. They leave the program changed.

Curtis graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Bachelor’s in Social Work and went on to complete his Master’s in Social Work from IUPUI. In May 2013, he joined the staff at HVAF,working with REST Coordinator Fred Young in helping 22 veterans at a time who are in recovery.

“My grandfather was a homeless veteran – it was intermittent and he struggled for years so it’s very meaningful to do what I do,” says Curtis.

Curtis who is originally from Tennessee adds that HVAF’s 12-step recovery is a dedicated 6 months of working with a sponsor and ultimately completing 58 homework assignments. He says the intensive recovery program holds veterans accountable for their actions while supporting them.

“I enjoy connecting veterans with services that are available to them whether it is primary, or mental health care and if they are not eligible for insurance I help get them signed up and with those barriers eliminated we are able to focus on recovery,” says Curtis. “It’s a really good feeling to know that when a veteran calls you and tells you how they are doing and you hear the program has worked for them and they are now self-sufficient – you have made a difference. And we encourage veterans to find something that they are passionate about and re-focus energy.”

In his spare time Curtis enjoys walking his dog, a pit-bull mix, Mae, and reading or painting.

Mouth mobile helps veterans

His dreams of the big time had all but faded after two decades of hard luck, homelessness and substance abuse. Then, the 56-year-old piano player and Sergeant of the Marine Corps found hope in an unlikely place: Indianapolis. His music career had picked up in Indy but AJ has always suffered from stage fright; not from performing but because of his smile and the condition of his teeth.

Broken teeth from fights and decay have hurt his ego and not having insurance or the ability to be able to afford a dental visit are the reasons why he did not visit a dentist. After two decades AJ, along with a dozen veterans from HVAF, went to the Indiana State Capital for Aspen Dental’s 2nd annual Mouth Mobile Movement on April 28. The community giving initiative delivers free dental care and oral health education to people across the US in need. This year Aspen Dental is focusing on treating of our nation’s veterans.

The past 12 months have blurred together for AJ. He has gone from living in a homeless shelter to receiving housing through HVAF to once again booking jobs to play at clubs. In Indianapolis, people recognize him on the streets. He plays "MacArthur Park" a song which Jimmy Webb wrote and he loves to perform songs by Elton John. There’s a hint of uncertainty in his voice despite his success. He still hasn’t figured out how to make sense of it all.

He still feels pain. After an accident at a construction job in 2010 AJ began using pain pills and an addiction ensued when he was told he could not work again because of his injuries.

“I felt like everything I had done for the past 30 years went down the drain but once I arrived at HVAF for housing and help with recovery I started to see improvements in my attitude and my health. I look forward to once again performing with a clear head and a big smile and after my dental visit I am excited about the possibilities that are ahead. One of my goals includes playing at supper clubs,” adds AJ.

AJ at HVAF

Save the Date - Veterans Job Fair

An upcoming Veterans Job Fair will help dozens of out-of-work veterans connect to area employers who are actively hiring. The Fair will be held from 1pm-4pm on Thursday, May 7 at HVAF of Indiana Inc. located at 964 N. Pennsylvania Street. 

Companies in attendance include FedEx, Allied Barton Security, Lowe’s, Interactions Corporation, Angie’s List, Covance, Bright House Networks, Unique Home Solutions, PME Enterprises, and many more.

For additional information, please contact HVAF Employment Specialist Chasiti Herring at 317-951-0688.

Veterans at HVAF benefit from company meet and greet

Lowe's Meet and Greet at HVAF

Five Lowe’s Home Improvement Store call center employees visited HVAF on Friday, March 13, for a meet and greet with veterans who are interested in working for the company at its new call center located on the west side of Indianapolis.

The meet and greet provided an opportunity for veterans and employers to meet face-to-face to discuss available positions.

Four of the five Lowe’s employees in attendance are veterans and talked about their own personal experiences and what Lowe’s has to offer.

Employer ‘Meet and Greets’ are an opportunities for employers to share information to a group of veteran candidates regarding job openings, pay rates, benefits, training, etc. It’s a chance for interested candidates to meet one on one with recruiters and learn more about the employment opportunities at that particular company. The Employer Meet and Greet lasts for an hour.

“This opportunity provides a great value for our veterans who are exploring employment by linking them up with employers that are actively hiring,” says HVAF Employment Specialist Chasiti Herring. Veterans had the ability to network and learn about a company to better determine whether or not the position is a good fit. “Having recruiters come in made the experience very relatable for fellow veteran job seekers. Our veterans were able to learn how their military skills could translate to the employment opportunities that Lowe’s has available.”

HVAF is planning its next Meet and Greet for April.