The volunteers who serve at HVAF help us perform such an important part of our mission. We could not operate the pantry, do beautification projects at our properties, or have events through the Veteran Engagement Committee, without them! Volunteering also provides an opportunity to have a shared experience with the veterans we serve and to witness the valuable work we do first-hand.

HVAF Volunteer Rebecca

I have had the pleasure of getting to know some special volunteers over the last three years who assist our Veteran Engagement Committee events. These amazing people are always willing to jump in wherever needed and they also often donate food, prizes, and funds to help make our events a success. Tammie and her son Matthew always operate the grill at our family cookouts. In fact, we have donned Matthew the “Grill Master” and awarded him a chef’s apron and hat! Rebecca and her family have supported many of our events and her son has been our bunny for the Easter Egg Hunt.

One of our newest volunteers, Ashley and her family, supported our events in 2024 by bringing a charcuterie board filled with amazing food at our Ladies Spa Day, providing food and serving at our Carnival, and helping decorate for our Halloween Bash. Melissa and Dr. Sarita also assisted our Ladies Spa Day last year by supporting our lady veterans and the lady partners of our veterans.

While working with these volunteers has been such a blessing, it’s always exciting when you take on a new task or adventure! After working three and a half years at HVAF, I am excited to expand my duties as Community Engagement Coordinator and start coordinating and assisting our food, clothing, and hygiene pantry volunteers. Many of these volunteers assist the pantry on Tuesday or Thursday, EVERY week, and have done this for years!

HVAF Volunteer Melissa

Angie, Tom, Pat, and Becky have composed a fantastic team that set-up the pantry and guided veterans through their pantry experience for many years. They also involve their associations with the American Legion and the Indianapolis POW/MIA committee to provide awareness and funding for HVAF.

Affectionately referred to as our “basement ladies,” Jennifer Haas and Carolyn McDonald, organize and sort the clothing in the basement for our clothing pantry weekly. Their assistance helps us keep the pantry orderly and full of fresh clothing choices, making the veteran’s shopping experience resemble a department store!

We have welcomed many new faces to assist our pantry, as well! Many of these have reached out after the fire, to see how they can help! Some of these volunteers have provided their time and talents for one time, while others have started to contribute weekly.

HVAF Volunteer Angie 

One volunteer even comes on his work lunch hour!

This week, while I had the opportunity to work in the pantry, I was reminded of how wonderful it is to be able to help provide such essential items and interact with our Hoosier Heroes.  It is such a wonderful feeling to have those moments, though fleeting, to make a lasting impact.

When we think of how inflation has affected so many, knowing these veterans will have food, clothing, and hygiene items, is very rewarding. In a small way, I believe it’s also showing them honor and respect for their service.

I can certainly see why so many desire to volunteer with us and want to return!

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer with HVAF, please contact Andrea Carlile at acarlile@hvaf.org or 765-425-3366. Come and help us make a difference in the lives of veterans and their families!

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