Welcome Home - A Podcast for Veterans, About Veterans, By Veterans

Have you ever wondered about the unique challenges our older veterans face? Today, we're joined by Molly Brooks, the founder of Hero's Bridge, an organization dedicated to serving the needs of veterans aged 65 and older. Molly paints a vivid picture of her journey, tracing back to her childhood as the daughter of a Vietnam veteran and her 30 years of experience as a nurse. These experiences culminated in a fervent desire to bridge the gap in services for our older veteran population, a mission that Hero's Bridge answers with immense passion and dedication.

As we peel back the layers of the veteran support ecosystem, we delve into the gritty details of navigating the VA system. It's a journey not for the faint-hearted, but Hero's Bridge steps in, providing a much-needed bridge through its battle buddies program. We also venture into the territory of collaborations and expansions. Exciting news ahead as Molly and I discuss the expansion of services into Northern Virginia, along with the power of collaboration between veteran nonprofits.

And if you think the housing crisis is bad, wait till you hear about the struggle for affordable housing for older veterans in the DC metro area. The good news is Hero's Bridge is not backing down from this challenge. Molly and her team are hard at work to provide a 44-cottage-style village specifically designed to cater to the needs of our aging heroes. As we wrap up our conversation, we touch on the topic of food insecurity among older veterans and how Hero's Bridge is breaking down logistical barriers to deliver much-needed aid. So tune in, buckle up, and join us on this enlightening journey into the world of Hero's Bridge and the tireless efforts of Molly Brooks and her team.

Join us on a remarkable journey behind the scenes of the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run. This episode features Dolora Stoffa, a dedicated volunteer and Guest Stay Coordinator (GSC), who plays a pivotal role in crafting unforgettable experiences for Wounded Warriors and their families. Discover how Dolora curates personalized itineraries for each Warrior, factoring in their preferences and scheduling activities with various vendors, photographers, and chefs. She also shares her experiences with the vast array of onsite activities, from relaxing walks along nature trails to stimulating games of pool and cornhole.

Our conversation takes a turn as we explore the contributions Veterans make to the retreat and the innovative solutions used to tackle any challenges that arise. Be inspired by the story of a Warrior's transformative journey at the Retreat, a testament to their indomitable spirit and resilience. We also delve into the plethora of activities available for Warriors and their families, including kayaking, fly fishing, self-defense classes, and even automobile restoration.

In the final segment, we shine a spotlight on the Sous Chef and the Guest Stay Coordinator, the unsung heroes ensuring an exceptional experience for our Warriors and their families. Hear how staffers and volunteers collaborate to make each Warrior's stay as special as possible. This episode brims with heartwarming stories and insights into life at the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run. Don't miss out - tune in every Monday at 5 am for more captivating tales from the retreat.

Get ready to shift your gears! The Vets for Vets Corvette Show will take you on a ride like no other. With our fantastic Director of Operations and Event Coordinator, Diane Polk, and Diane Lunsford, we've lined up over 200 stunning Corvettes, with a few celebrity guests adding more horsepower to the show. We're also talking about some serious matters with Ryan from the Department of Veteran's Affairs PTS Counseling program. You'll also meet Deborah Gibson, an extraordinary volunteer from Zanesville, Ohio, and Alan, the proud owner of a 2023 C8 Z51 Corvette. 

Look out for Tommy Milner from Corvette Racing. He'll share some heartwarming tales from the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run and how it's been a haven for veterans and their families. Hear about the indomitable spirit of Corvette fans and Tommy's unique experiences at events for military families and children with disabilities. Adding to this community spirit, Walt, the incredible Lead from The Home Depot Team, shares their astonishing volunteer efforts at the show and news regarding their grant for a new barn at the Warrior Retreat. To wrap up this excitement, we have comments from our Founders and Executive Director Sarah Ford. So gear up, fasten your seat belts, and let's take this ride together!

Have you ever wondered about the power of companionship and how it can significantly change lives? Get ready to hear an awe-inspiring story of Maureen Normann, an Army veteran whose life transformed with the help of her service dog, Prince. Maureen takes us through her journey, from her time in the Women's Army Corps, her service in West Berlin, to her separation due to multiple traumatic brain injuries and multiple sclerosis. She lays out her struggle, the consequent suggestion of acquiring a service dog, and the anticipation that built while waiting for Prince.

Maureen's story is not just about her; it's a testament to the incredible value service dogs bring to veterans' lives. As we chat, she highlights the intricate nature of finding the right service dog organization, the stringent training process, and the bond that forms between a veteran and their service dog. But that's not all; we also address the challenges that come with it - like the costs involved, ADA regulations, and the experiences dealing with different service providers. We share our experiences, the highs, and lows, and the critical role these often-unsung heroes play in our lives. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to these magnificent dogs and their extraordinary contribution to humanity. Tune in and get ready to be moved.

Can you imagine the impact of providing warm meals to veterans and their families struggling with food insecurity? Join us as we talk to LJ Raspler, the founder and president of Cook for Vets, an inspiring organization that delivers meals and groceries to veterans in need within the Northern Virginia community. LJ shares the heart and soul behind Cook for Vets and the incredible difference they're making in the lives of those who have selflessly served our country.

Discover the powerful partnerships Cook for Vets has forged with high school students, churches, and other community organizations to ensure the needs of struggling veterans are met. Through their extraordinary efforts, LJ and her team are not just providing food but also the hope and support that these heroes truly deserve. Listen in to hear some moving stories from LJ's experiences delivering meals to veterans and their families, and learn how you can contribute to their vital mission.

Get ready for an exhilarating conversation with our special guest Chuck Berge, the ambassador at large for the Warrior Retreat and the team lead for the yearly Vets for Vets car show. Discover how this event has evolved over the years, now featuring around 225 cars, including 175 Corvettes and 45 other makes and models. Chuck shares the registration process, award competitions like the People's Choice and the Chairman's Choice, and heartwarming experiences from past shows, such as the number of wounded warriors who attend and enjoy the event.

Join us as we explore the significance of volunteers and the clubs from Maryland and Virginia that lend their support to the show. Learn about the parking and registration process, the ceremonies like the presentation of colors and the national anthem, and how the Warrior Retreat is an all-hands event with blessings from a local pastor. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness the passion and dedication of the car community coming together for a great cause at the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run!

Have you ever wondered how a five-star culinary experience can positively impact the lives of Wounded Warriors and their families? Join us in an inspiring conversation with Executive Event Chef Ken Gardner as we uncover the amazing visiting chef program at the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run. Not only does this program offer exquisite meals to Wounded Warriors who may not be able to afford a restaurant dinner or may have Post Traumatic Stress, but it also serves as a catalyst for family healing and reconnection.

Listen in as Chef Ken shares his journey as a visiting chef, having served over 65 families since his first dinner in 2017. Discover the unique and mouthwatering meals he's created, such as bison Masala, elk, alligator, and wild boar, and learn about the heartwarming events Warrior Retreat hosts to honor these incredible families. Don't miss the powerful stories of family healing and the life-changing impact this program has had on the lives of Wounded Warriors and their loved ones. You won't want to miss this heartwarming and uplifting episode!

Are you tired of predatory claims companies exploiting soldiers? Join us as we sit down with Tom Levitt, a member of the National Legislative Committee for the VFW, to discuss the legislative priorities for 2023 and how to protect our veterans. Tom shares valuable insights on cracking down on these companies, the passage of the Pact Act, and issues surrounding Camp Lejeune water. 

As advocates for our veterans, we also explore the importance of working with accredited VA service officers to file disability claims and access free services. You'll learn about the VFW's efforts in suicide prevention, the need for better data sharing between different arms of the VA, and the Major Richard Star Act. Discover how we are collaborating with Congressman Connelly's office to encourage the VA to be more transparent and efficient. 

Veteran service organizations like the VFW aren't just a place to grab a drink and share stories - they are an essential support system for our veterans. In this episode, we emphasize the value of joining these organizations and how your dues contribute to legislative initiatives and advocacy efforts. Learn how you can get involved without ever setting foot in a post by participating in action alerts, signing up for the Action Corps Weekly, and utilizing the Priority Goals brochure to advocate for veterans' rights. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on how we can make a difference for those who have served our country.

Faith Lillemo is the Volunteer Coordinator for the Warrior Retreat. She contributes to the efficient day-to-day operations of the office, coordinating volunteers with weekly service and event opportunities, overseeing the cleaning and staging of the houses, receiving donations, and leading monthly Beautification Days. Today we take an in-depth look at volunteering at the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run.

Our guests are Kelley Tubbs, with the VA, and Aimee Stoddard, with Serving Together, who are co-organizers of the Northern Virginia Veterans Suicide Coalition. In today's episode, we hear about how the coalition began and their amazing work.