Veterans Community Project

This week as you give thanks, you should know that there are others out there giving thanks for you. Here is what a U.S. Army Veteran had to say a few days after recently moving into his 240-square-foot home at Veterans Community Project. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

Today, we’re raising a mile-high salute to the thousands of people who've made this moment possible. Thanks to your incredible support, Veterans Community Project of Longmont has reached a major fundraising milestone and will soon be able to provide the dignity of home to more Veterans experiencing homelessness in Colorado. https://lnkd.in/grMRtakp

On a scale of 1 to 10, U.S. Air Force Veteran Jerry said he was an emphatic '10!' about moving into his new 240-square-foot home at Veterans Community Project yesterday. Before he was referred to VCP by the VA, the 72-year-old experienced homelessness and was couch-surfing with family and friends. So, naturally, the first thing he did after opening the door was send them a picture of his new place. "I'm so proud of you, Dad," his daughter quickly responded. While at VCP, Jerry's goals with his case manager include gaining access to VA benefits and finding long-term senior housing. The self-described lawn care nut is also looking forward to helping out the grounds crew around his perimeter. His commitment, literally speaking, is that the grass will be greener on the other side of his stay. Welcome home. Jerry.

Thank you to the Kansas City Chiefs Women’s Organization for coming out to Veterans Community Project last week for a tour of VCP Village and to volunteer packing food boxes for Veterans in need. And a big thank you to GEHA Health and the Hunt Family Foundation, which presented an impactful contribution from the 50/50 Raffle at last week’s “Salute to Service” game at Arrowhead Stadium. Together, we can fix Veteran homelessness.

For U.S. Navy Veteran and Veterans Community Project resident Lucia, transportation has been a big problem for a long time. Her lack of a reliable vehicle led to difficulty maintaining stable employment, in large part due to navigating hours-long, late-night commutes on public transportation. Well that all changed this week, thanks to her VCP case management team working with Progressive Insurance to have a pickup truck donated as part of a nationwide program. Getting the keys is a final step for Lucia to be ready to move out of her 240-square-foot tiny home at VCP Village next week. The truck is a fit for her future plans, too, working in sustainable agriculture. She says, though, that it’s not the only thing she’s moving out with that she didn’t have when moving in, explaining, “I feel like I finally found a community that cares about me.” Indeed, Lucia. We wish you fair winds and following seas.

Thank you to Scott Credit Union, Schnuck Markets, Inc., KMOV-TV and all of you who came out for this event. We’re yet again in awe of the kindness of our community and how you rally together to support Veterans. It was also moving to hear Veteran and Schnucks employee Cameron tell KMOV, “I'm trying not to get emotional... I wish this stuff existed when I was getting out. I was homeless for a time. I was lucky enough that I had a support structure to fall back on. But I understand that not everybody has that.” At VCP, our support structure is built by all of you. Thank you. https://lnkd.in/gPEq2tem

This Veterans Day, please join us in saluting U.S. Army Veteran and Veterans Community Project alum Tracy. He served our country for 23 years, four months and three days. But when he transitioned to civilian life, the former Drill Sergeant found himself without the tools to serve himself. That all changed when he came to VCP, which he describes as “the best decision of my life.” Now, having recently moved out of VCP Village, he hopes to share his story as a way to build a community of support for other Veterans in need. We know, without a doubt, that we won’t be the last to say that this natural leader made an impact in our lives. Thank you, Tracy, for your continued service.

Today, as the U.S. Marine Corps turns 249 years old, we’re excited to share the story of Veterans Community Project alum Kyle. He had a difficult time transitioning to civilian life after serving in the Marines, ultimately leading to a spiral in which he lost his job, his house and his family. But while living in his 240-square-foot tiny home at VCP Village, he worked with our case managers to gain all of that back and more, saying, “[My time at VCP] brought back that sense of pride.” Well today, Kyle, we couldn’t be prouder of you. Semper Fidelis, Marine.

Thank you, thank you, thank you. We’re excited to announce that The House Party has officially sold out! Once again, this incredible community has come together to help us support Veterans in their moments of need. We can’t wait to celebrate your support tomorrow at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City. Those registered should’ve received an email today with full event details. But here’s what to expect: Parking: Free event parking is available in the H&R Block garage accessible from Walnut Street between 13th and 14th Streets. Entry: Doors open at 6 p.m. with an open bar happy hour and silent auction in the West Concourse. Use the main arena entrance to access the event. Program: An hour-long program and live auction will begin at 7:45 p.m., emceed by renowned innovation speaker Diana Kander and featuring updates from VCP leaders about how your support is transforming the lives of Veterans. Plus, you'll meet two VCP alums doing incredible things with their lives. Party: After the program ends, join us on the arena floor for live music, dancing, a cash bar and late-night bites. Any questions? Hit us up at houseparty@vcp.org. We’ll see you tomorrow!

The House Party week is here, and only limited tickets remain! Be sure to get yours today. And if you’re bringing a friend or date, be sure to use the promo code BOGO at checkout. https://lnkd.in/grFbRiNq