Category HVAF News & Updates

“Without HVAF, I wouldn’t be where I’m at now.”
“If it weren’t for this place, I probably wouldn’t be where I am at now.” After years of drugs and alcohol, Army veteran Michael S. knew he needed to make a change. A few years ago, while working at the…

Hoagies & Hops raises $700 for veterans
A tasty competition Every year, HVAF participates in many community events that benefit our veterans. One of our favorites? Hoagies & Hops’ hoagie eating contest! On September 11, 17 locals participated in the fifth annual contest – where 100 percent…

116 Indy veterans attended annual Stand Down
In the midst of a pandemic, veterans need our help more than ever. Thankfully, HVAF could host Stand Down – an annual event that provides goods, services, and resources for veterans. Last week HVAF held the event for the 16th…

Marine Vet needed a job… 2 days later – he was hired!
In November 2020, Marine Corps veteran Bill reached his lowest point. He didn’t have electricity, water, or gas in his house. And he didn’t want to continue living. After spending a few days at the VA Hospital, they encouraged to…

A Message from the President & CEO: September 2021
SOME THOUGHTS on AUGUST 31, 2021. I want to say the remarks which follow are more practical than political as it’s not my place to advocate or argue beyond what’s best for the veterans we serve but… this moment seems…

New data shows increase in homelessness among Indy’s Veterans
Below are thoughts from HVAF’s VP for Strategy, Emmy Hildebrand, regarding the annual Point In Time (PIT) Count results: Many effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were immediately known in March of 2020… Lockdown. Lost jobs. Schools closed. Many more are…

“Working with Kiara is like working with a friend.”
Where it all began Two years ago, HVAF Veteran Workforce Development Director Kiara met Army National Guard veteran Geraldine (Gerrie). After hearing her story, Kiara knew HVAF’s Workforce Development department could help her. One week later, they met in her…

Meet Team HVAF: Andrea Carlile
My name is Andrea Carlile and I am the Community Engagement Coordinator at HVAF. I connect community organizations, corporations, and individuals, striving to develop partnerships and continued support. I also raise awareness about the needs veterans face and how HVAF…

A Message from the President & CEO: The Situation in Afghanistan
The following is a message from HVAF President & CEO Brian Copes (who served in Afghanistan): My thoughts and prayers are with my fellow veterans and service members who served in Afghanistan. I want to affirm for our veterans and…

A Message from the President & CEO: August 2021
WHAT ABOUT AUGUST? I’m an almanac and astronomy guy and so I know we’re in “the dog days of summer” but… why are they called that? Well… since you asked, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac (Dog Days: What Are…
