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.

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

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.

From day shelter to stable housing

Gregory DeBorde sits unblinkingly, perched on his favorite black recliner chair in his two-bedroom home. It is a home that he now shares with his wife and son, Lucas, and it is lit by the warm orange glow of a single floor lamp. A Christmas tree illuminates the room. DeBorde, a Navy veteran, was once near homeless and worried about how he was going to provide Christmas for his family. In August 2014, he called HVAF and qualified for HVAF’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program which helps veterans and their families avoid becoming chronically homeless by providing them rental assistance, utility payments, and furniture purchases. He was also provided Christmas from a generous HVAF donor that year.

HVAF Case Manager Kayla Jackson helped him move into a rental apartment in Indianapolis after previously renting in Avon which allowed him to gain stability with housing and focus on other needs. All of this in combination with his own self-determination eventually led him to be able to purchase his own home.

Also, Gregory skillfully went through the process of re-applying for disability benefits and to his success began receiving them. In March 2016, he moved into a home in Indianapolis’ Irvington neighborhood. He never imagined himself near-homeless, but is thankful for the hand-up and services received from HVAF.

Two friends reunite after 51 years

Will at HVAF

A chance find in his dresser drawer has awakened a whirlwind of emotions for one veteran. Will, 69, a retired private in the Marines, was brought to tears recently when he re-read a long-lost letter he sent to his best friend Jim when he was a strapping young soldier fighting in the Vietnam War.

The discovery took Will completely by surprise, and he both cried and laughed as he read the questions he had asked his friend. The letter, dated 1965, was a flashback to a time when he was alone, separated from his family, but excited about opportunities. However, it is also a painful reminder of the past. A lot of the men in his division were killed. “It’s difficult talking out loud about it to other people,” Will said who was later diagnosed with PTSD. “When I get lonely I like to look back at the letter, but when I first read it after all this time my hands were shaking.”

The letter is a window into how close the bonds are in service. Today, Will’s friend, Jim, is retired and lives in Florida. Jim knew about HVAF’s programs and services and when he learned that Will had become homeless in April 2016, he suggested he reach out for help. He moved into the Manchester Apartments, one of HVAF’s 13 transitional properties, where he joins a weekly grief and loss group. It’s an opportunity to educate, support, and help veterans build coping skills.   

“HVAF has been a godsend to me,” says Will. “I came in struggling to walk, relying on a walker as my back was deteriorating as a result of the work I did for decades as a Fork Lifter. HVAF has been able to give me space to heal emotionally, physically, and mentally.”

HVAF was an important step in his journey as he was able to have a safe place to open up and share painful experiences.

Homeless for three years, veteran qualifies for benefits with help of HVAF

At 71, West Virginia veteran Clarence B. has experienced more than his fair share of ups and downs since he left the Marines Corps. That he survived, and is now thriving, is testament to his tenacity. It’s also a tribute to a determined network of community supporters who refused to quit on Clarence.

In the 1970’s and 80’s while he was working on the railroads as a yard conductor he began drinking heavily and using drugs. Clarence’s life journey took a downturn as result of the people he associated with. That lifestyle stayed with him for two decades.

He then spent three years in construction before being incarcerated for nine months. He then went into trucking where he worked until diabetes prevented him from being able to work.

Clarence at HVAF

After his health declined and he lost his job, Clarence moved to Indianapolis in 2002. He found various roofs over his head by staying at the missions, a situation that lasted two to three years.

In 2014 Kevin’s house went into foreclosure at which time he came to HVAF. He was at Carson Apartments for 18 months. He met with an HVAF Case Manager who helped him.

In October, Clarence moved into his own apartment. He was able to double his income by obtaining veterans’ benefits and social security while at HVAF.  He remains clean and sober.

“I didn’t have my head together back then,” Clarence said. “Keep your head up and have people around you to give support.”

HVAF provides bikes to homeless veterans

Reggie Jefferson, 58, a homeless U.S. Army veteran, was once a professional singer. He relocated to South Beach, Florida in 1994 after his wife passed away. Reggie says he ended up homeless, sleeping on the beach, listening to ocean waves crash before him. His life was spiraling downward and he returned back home to Indianapolis for help with alcoholism.

Mark Lykins, a case manager with HVAF's Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, realized that transportation served as a major barrier for verans. He began a bike program for our homeless veterans at HVAF which is how the two men met.

Since the bike program began in June of 2016, Mark has collected 37 bikes. Monetary donations have allowed him to purchase locks for the bikes, as well as tools to refurbish them to help homeless veterans without transportation.

Thirty-three bikes have already been given to homeless veterans, including Reggie, while others have been used for parts when deemed beyond salvage.

Reggie said not having a car during his week of living homeless really gave him a better understanding of how difficult it is for the homeless to apply for employment, go to the grocery store and medical appointments as well as look for housing.

“Bikes make it easier,” Reggie said.

“Transportation is a big issue in Indianapolis,” Mark said. “And employment is essential for Reggie. He’s not housed in the middle of town and so his bike has cut his commute from a one hour and 20 minute walk to a 20 minute bike ride.”

Mark said the criteria for a homeless veteran to receive a bike is that they need to be able to prove veteran status and have housing issues.

“Then when they don’t need it (bike) anymore, they can give it back,” said Mark, who in turn can give the bike to another homeless veteran without transportation.

Mark said it can take anywhere from days to months for a homeless veteran to get a job depending on an individual’s circumstances. He’s thankful for generous donors and hopes to receive more bikes. To donate a bike to HVAF, contact Volunteer Coordinator Robin Close at (317) 951-0688.

HVAF also accepts monetary donations.  Donate online at hvaf.org.

Veteran learns to combat alcoholism

Timothy had the courage to fight back against veteran alcoholism — a personal fight for him. After hitting rock bottom, he rose up and now wants to give back to other veterans.

The U.S. Navy veteran says his propensity for alcohol was heightened in the Navy where he would stop at bars at each pier - booze was always around.

“I came out of the Navy an alcoholic and I also had also some PTSD from sexual assault that wasn’t diagnosed until 20 years after my service,” adds Timothy.

The Armed Forces Health Surveillance Center reports that nearly 13 percent of troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan from 2006 to 2008 were referred to counseling for alcohol problems after their post-deployment health assessments. That’s a significant portion of deployed forces coming back to face alcohol problems.

After completing his service, Timothy worked as a finance manager, but his dependency on alcohol affected his work.

“And then I traded one drug for another and began using cocaine and it cost me my home and family,” says Timothy.

In 1986, Timothy enrolled in a recovery treatment program but eventually relapsed. For three decades he was in and out of recovery programs.

He came to HVAF in May 2016. The program worked and he slowly began to rebuild his life.

“You make progress each time. I am 55 years old and each time you make progress. Every time I had relapsed it was because I had stopped doing the things I was supposed to be doing like going to meetings, church and visiting family. When you give up that support – you are doomed.”

“Support groups are very critical to recovery,” says Timothy’s Case Manager, Shawnita Yarbro. “And to show the veteran that you genuinely care about their well-being and overall success is key.”

Today, Timothy is thriving. He is housed and has been clean and sober for six months. He receives VA disability and is working to pay off his debts and eventually move into permanent housing. He serves as a mentor for other veterans by routinely telling his story and offering hope.

Once homeless, veteran now serves others

James at HVAF

James Miller has had many titles over the years; husband, U.S. Air Force veteran, volunteer, but there was one title he never thought he would have − homeless.

A native of Indianapolis, James moved back home and after enlisting in the U.S. Air Force in 1978 where he worked as a nuclear weapons technician and an electronics technician at the North American Air Defense Command (NORAD).

Following four years of service, James went on to receive an engineering degree from ITT Tech in Indianapolis.

After graduating from college, James’ struggles began. He was employed, but turned to drugs as a source of recreation.

In 1993, due to drug use James became homeless and began couch-surfing, staying at shelters and abandoned homes. To support his drug habit, he sold his belongings. He was homeless for ten years.  While it may be difficult to comprehend for those who have never experienced homelessness, James said that reintegrating was difficult because he actually became accustomed to being homeless.

With limited options, he learned about HVAF during a visit to the Veterans Affairs benefits office and decided to enter HVAF’s recovery program in 2002. His journey out of homelessness was not without set-backs. It took him four years to graduate from the program because he relapsed.

HVAF’s recovery program helps homeless veterans recover from substance abuse and drugs and reintegrate into meaningful employment in the civilian labor force through a variety of services that address the complex problems they face.

James continued to visit HVAF periodically after he left the recovery program. It’s where he learned of a job opportunity at HVAF as Peer Mentor. He was hired in 2012. As Peer Mentor, James travels to three housing properties: Warman, Manchester, and Moreau to meet with veterans and their case managers to identify those who are struggling and in need of a “mentor.”

James also manages two groups which meet weekly. The Vet to Vet group allows veterans the chance to bond and share their struggles and be supportive of one other. A Recovery group aimed at focusing on veterans who are dealing with a substance use disorder is also facilitated by James.

“I am not afraid to be transparent with my own struggles with addiction and homelessness,” says James. “Having been a former client and having struggled for so long it impressed upon me this notion that what I do really matters. HVAF has been a big part of my life and if I can help one person then everything I went through had a purpose and value.”

James keeps a busy schedule.

In May 2013, James received an Associate Degree in Human Services from Ivy Tech.

In June, James received a “Case Manager Certificate” from the Indianapolis Case Management Institute (ICMI)  which is a 6-month training program launched by United Way of Central Indiana designed to help case managers serving at-risk individuals who need services and techniques for self-care to prevent burnout.

James is also a full-time student at IUPUI and will receive his BA in Social Work in May 2017.

He is using his journey through homelessness to inspire others. 

Once homeless veteran maneuvers the job market

Leah T., a previously homeless U.S. Army veteran, came to HVAF for housing in 2014. She had hopes of finding a job as a medical assistant, but she lacked experience. She also faced medical issues and was recovering from years of mental abuse.

“It was a long 4 years of homelessness simply because I was stubborn,” says Leah. “If I would have not focused so hard on finding a medical assistant position I would have done something else.”

At HVAF, Leah met with employment specialists who helped open her eyes to other employment opportunities.  Employment specialists helped her improve her resume and attend job fairs. In July, Leah secured full-time permanent employment at Amazon Fulfillment Center. She is working 40 hours per week and moved into her own permanent housing.

“I am looking forward to getting my first paycheck,” says Leah. “It has been a long time coming.”

Leah has not given up on her dream of becoming a medical assistant. She plans to take certification classes and learning everything she can as well as to continue visiting those who helped her at HVAF.

“I have worked with Leah for several years and it is great to see the transformation that has taken place,” says Employment Coordinator Chasiti Herring. “She is motivated and goes the extra mile to attend hiring fairs and submit applications. Leah has come a long way.”

Leah will also be giving back to HVAF by volunteering each Thursday sorting and stocking donations that come into the food and clothing pantry.

Homeless veteran at HVAF receives new bed at age 56

In 2014, Terri, 56, walked into HVAF in need of housing. She carried very little; only her DD214 card proving she was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. The card is all she needed. HVAF provided her with a furnished apartment, food, hygiene items and clothing. It was an adjustment, but so was homelessness. Terri was finally getting the help she needed.

Once housed at HVAF, Terri no longer needed to find shelter. She began attending group meetings on a range of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder and PTSD. She attended meetings at the VA.  Because of her mental health issues she says it has been difficult to hold down a job.

At HVAF, Terri was referred to HUD VASH and she soon started receiving disability payments and permanent supportive housing. She also qualified for a federally funded program which allowed her to receive a new bed, bedding and assistance with her car repairs. Thanks to the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program Terri received her first new bed. 

“They set me up with a bed and at 56 it is the first new bed I've ever owned,” expressed Terri as she knelt down and cried “I really appreciate it.”

All of these resources were offered to her because she came to HVAF.

Today, Terri is living in her own apartment and receives ongoing mental health treatment at the VA. She also has reunited with her 18-year old cat, Isabella.

Homeless veteran who once lived on $133 a month finds his way again

Donell Marzett, 59, served in the U.S. Army during significant international conflicts. Now, he’s helping other veterans face and win some of the toughest battles of their lives. He doesn’t talk about his time in service, but he is a proud soldier who followed in the footsteps of his father and two uncles by choosing a career in the infantry.

“When I was in the Army, I always had a feeling of purpose, but when I got home I felt as though I lost that purpose and had to find my way again. I was so used to the structure that the military provides and civilian life seemed jarring. I was trying to figure out where I fit in and what sort of career to enter,” said Donell.

When his service ended, Donell’s hardships began. Depression soon followed.

Donell suffered from anxiety and turned to drugs before ending up at the VA Hospital following an attempted suicide. For two years, he lived in an abandoned house in Terre Haute leaning on the skills he learned in the military. He relied on external sources of heat to stay warm.

Then, things got worse. In 2010, he was arrested by the U.S. Marshalls for child support payments and spent eight days in jail and was sentenced to four years of probation.

“After my arrest I had to start all over again, and for several months I lived on $133 a month,” said Donell.

It was then he returned to Indianapolis where the majority of his service providers are located and in 2015 Donell came to HVAF for housing.  Once housed, he enrolled and completed classes in mental health services and sobriety at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

His Case Manager, Doneeka Gunn, at HVAF helped connect him with services.

“I have watched Donell go through some of life’s most challenging times and then relish in the good times,” says Case Manager Doneeka Gunn. “He did not give up. HVAF was with him every step of the way in providing him with the resources that he needed to get him on his feet.”

Today, Donell works as a talent engagement specialist at WorkOne. He is ready to give back by helping veterans who were once in his shoes. His future goals include moving into his own home, purchasing a car, and continuing his commitment to his job.

Once-homeless vet fights back from homelessness

Tyler Brinkley, 61, was a soldier who cooked three meals a day for 8,000 soldiers deployed in Guam.

“The first meal of the day is very important,” says Tyler. “Eating in the dining room hall helped our soldiers feel connected.”

Tyler at HVAF

For many soldiers being away from home can be isolating. It was no different for Tyler who served in the U.S. Air Force for 22 months. After being honorably discharged he came home to Indianapolis and spent nearly two decades working as a painter. However, soon the physical labor took a toll on his body. He was unable to hold down a job and support himself. Tyler became depressed and turned to alcohol to cope. As his health worsened he struggled financially to support himself.

Tyler’s living situation also changed in June 2014. The condo he was renting went up for sale leaving him homeless. He turned to the VA for help and was then referred to HVAF for housing.

“Tyler walked in and said “OK, I’m here. How can I get my life in order?’” said HVAF Case Manager Andree Brian.  “He was extremely determined and because of his determination we were able to achieve all of his goals.”

HVAF provided Tyler with housing and reintegration services as well as offered him programs and services that once served as barriers. He received free dental work, eye exams, as well as help filling out his social security benefits in which he later qualified. As a result, his self-esteem soared.

“I now feel a greater sense of peace,” adds Tyler. "The future looks bright again and I envision myself in my own apartment someday. I want to be healthy and happy.”

Today, Tyler is thankful to have a roof over his head at HVAF’s Loyd House. He is preparing three meals each day and that brings him a renewed sense of purpose.

Realtor gives back by serving homeless men and women

Marilyn Parrish at HVAF

On one of the coldest days in March, Marilyn Parrish left the comforts of her home on the north side of Indianapolis and headed downtown to meet the homeless men and women at HVAF. Her parents were both U.S. Air Force veterans who served in WWII and were married for 67 years before they passed. Their passion for helping others inspired her, and an interest in serving others was born.

“I knew I wanted to volunteer and did a Google search of veterans organizations where I could make a difference which is how I found HVAF. To know that so many of our homeless veterans come in with just the shirts on their backs- it is heartbreaking,” says Marilyn.

At HVAF each Tuesday, Marilyn volunteers in the food and clothing pantry sorting and stocking items and each Tuesday you will find her at HVAF. She has provided supplies like sharpies to label donated items.  Her generosity doesn’t stop there. She also purchased a new clothing rack for the clothing pantry.

“You see needs at HVAF and how you can help and you make it happen,” says Marilyn. “I enjoy volunteering.”

Veteran escapes despair, finds dream job

Tim, 57, joined the Army in 1978 because he wanted to try something new. He had previously been working at the YMCA in Peru, Indiana, and he hoped to find some adventure and value in serving his country. His father and his two stepfathers had both served in the Army, but Tim’s experience during his service proved to be quite different. Soon after being stationed at Fort McCLellan in Alabama, Tim was diagnosed with scoliosis and sent home. Because he had only been able to serve for a couple of months before his diagnosis, Tim regarded himself as a failure.

“My diagnosis played a negative role in my life and it had a domino effect as my life soon began to spiral out of control,” Tim said. “I turned to drugs and alcohol, and I kept everything bottled up.”

After leaving the Army, Tim jumped from state to state and lived as a gypsy for over twenty years. During this time, Tim tried three different rehab programs but none proved to be effective. Tim wanted to find a job in medical billing, but he was forced to work odd jobs to make ends meet because he lacked a stable living situation and struggled with addiction.

“After I came back, I found it difficult to get adjusted. I struggled with depression, and I was even suicidal. I would ask myself, ‘What’s the point of living if I’m going to live like this?” Tim said.

Last August, Tim decided to return to Indiana, where he went through an inpatient rehab program at Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Hospital. After he completed the program, Tim spent two months in a Horizon House transitional shelter, where he obtained help with his DD214 form, and then he came to HVAF in October for help in finding a job and permanent housing.

“When I arrived at HVAF, I was nervous and wasn’t sure what to expect, but my time at HVAF has been nothing but a positive experience,” Tim said. “HVAF has given me a new outlook on my past and a jump start towards my future.”

Once at HVAF, Tim worked with Sarah Reed, his case manager, to obtain temporary housing at the Keltner House, one of HVAF’s residential properties. He also worked with Employment Specialists who helped him create a resume and apply for jobs. Tim was offered a job working at the Indianapolis International Airport soon after his arrival, but he still hoped to find a job in medical billing.

Even after Tim had been hired at the airport, employment specialists continued the job search with him in hopes of finding him the job he had always wanted. As a result of hard work and persistence, Tim was offered a job as a customer service representative for Vespa Group in April. He was also able to find an apartment of his own through HVAF’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, which helped him pay his first deposit, rent and utility payments.

Tim will begin his new job in June by waking up at 6 a.m. and boarding the bus for an hour-and-thirty-minute commute. Once he arrives at work, Tim will be handling customer calls and explaining customers’ benefits within their medical insurance coverage.

Tim has been sober for over a year now and has reconnected with some family. He expresses deep excitement and gratitude for this employment opportunity and is enthusiastic about his future.

“When I came to HVAF, I had nothing other than the clothes on my back. Now, I have a savings account with more money than I have ever had before, an apartment of my own and my dream job,” Tim said.

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.

Robert's Success Story at HVAF

From the front door to the mailbox, it’s easy to take keys for granted. Until you don’t have them.

“Homeless people don’t need keys very much. There’s not too much that you have to unlock.”

And that was the case for Robert M., when the 54-year-old U.S. Navy veteran found himself out of work, homeless and suffering from alcoholism. He was a planner. At age 54 he had not needed to ask anyone for help. But you can only plan for so much.

In June 2014, Robert checked into an inpatient center in Marion, Indiana where he stayed for 90 days. Then, he enrolled in the Veterans Affairs Substance Abuse Recovery and Rehabilitation Treatment Program (SARRTP) at Marion Hospital. Next, Robert applied for the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program but did not qualify.

In 2014, he was placed in housing at HVAF. He worked with Case Manager Lindsey Bennett who helped get him on track. While at HVAF housing, Case Manager Kayla Jackson, MSW, LSW, enrolled him into its Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. SSVF helps eligible veteran families with outreach, case management, and assistance in obtaining VA and other benefits including assisting clients with budgeting and creating a stability plan. Qualified veterans may also be eligible for limited payments to third parties, such as landlords, utility companies, and moving companies, if these payments help veteran families stay in or acquire permanent housing.

The SSVF program helped him secure the rental and with all of the initial move in costs.  

“When you become near homeless you lose a lot of material things, says Robert. “You lose your self-confidence and pride and along with those things goes your drive to better yourself. HVAF provided me with a structured living program and thanks to the SSVF program, I have received a brand new bed, pots and pans. I didn’t have a lot and now I have rebuilt my life,” adds Robert.

Arriving at HVAF, Robert says, was a blessing in disguise because he was able to get the resources to start over. Now marking one year in his own apartment and a steady job, Robert is setting an example to inspire others and reminding us that there’s a lot to be thankful for.

“Just think about how fortunate you are to have the things you need and family, friends and the ability to be together.”

Robert has been in successful recovery for over 2 years. He credits his success to a team effort coming from many organizations. He is also a Certified Recovery Addiction Specialist.