On Wednesday, five veterans graduated from HVAF’s Residential, Employment, Substance, Abuse, Treatment program, known as REST. The veterans were greeted by several peers and alumni who praised their accomplishments. Army veteran Zach Day who hiked the Appalachian Trail, one of the toughest hiking trails in the world, to raise awareness for homeless veterans, was also on hand to support the veterans. Each veteran received a certificate of completion from the recovery program.

In their own words, the veterans reflect on what the program has meant to them.

Tonny
Entered the HVAF recovery program on February 29, 2012

“HVAF gave me focus and it gave me hope that I could have a better life,” says Tonny. “I knew I wanted to change my life and I needed time to focus on me. HVAF’s recovery program gave me the tools to become self-sufficient.”






Michael 
Entered the HVAF recovery program on March 26, 2012

“It’s been a great experience for me to get the help I needed at HVAF. Zach Day, was an inspiration. When I leave I feel like I can accomplish anything.”







Charles
Entered the HVAF recovery program on February 23, 2012

“Entering HVAF’s recovery program helped me a lot with my addictions. I’ve been clean and sober for 10 months and am looking for an apartment.”

Damon
Entered the HVAF recovery program on April 23, 2012

“The realization that I don’t know everything hit me hard when I came to HVAF and it was a learning process I had to go through but HVAF staff has guided me every step of the way. I’m forever grateful.”








Ross, not pictured, entered the HVAF recovery program on February 10, 2012. Ross is now working at UPS.