The holiday season and end of the year can often be a time when we’re racing to the finish. To-do lists are filled with personal and professional tasks that all must be done RIGHT NOW. With a little over two weeks left in 2022, for many of us I know it feels like we’re burning in, tank on E approaching the 12/31 finish line.

If you’re feeling at all like this, I want to share a few experiences from today that will fill your tank.

Today, HVAF staff and clients were honored to be invited by Board Member Danny Portee to a holiday luncheon at the Skyline Club. If you know Danny, he has a way of lifting up an entire room and inspiring everyone to believe in themselves. This year’s holiday lunch was no different.

Danny asked for volunteers to share what they are thankful for as we near Christmas. So many veterans shared from their hearts that they are thankful for a roof over their heads, thankful for another year of sobriety, thankful for the safety and support found at HVAF. Thanks to our incredible staff and to your generous support, veterans’ lives are changing for the better! Maybe it was just me, but as my eyes filled a little with tears, my tank started filling up too.

I was also excited to learn today that 343 veterans and their family members will soon be receiving a bit of holiday cheer. These veterans and family members have been adopted for Christmas, and thanks to Santa’s Helpers (many of you!) gifts will soon be delivered throughout our city. This year sets a record for the most individuals to receive Christmas assistance at HVAF! The joy spread by your support is immeasurable!

And, finally, I am blessed to work with a staff of caring, compassionate individuals who are driven to improve the lives of those we serve. I started my day today with an email from the director of another homeless service agency. She described Lucy, our Healthcare Navigator, as exemplary, having recently “hit it out of the park” helping a veteran. I ended my day reading an email from one of our Rapid Rehousing Case Managers, Brittany, who shared that she placed a young veteran and her baby in emergency housing in a hotel today. She wanted to thank our Community Center staff, who quickly assembled emergency food, clothing, and hygiene items to help make sure this little family had all they needed tonight.

As I finish typing this, my tank is full. Like our staff, I am here to serve. Having the opportunity today to see a small bit of the impact HVAF of Indiana is making fills my heart. I hope knowing that you are part of this incredible work boosts your spirit as well.

From all of us at HVAF, thank you for another year of partnership in our mission. Happiest of holidays and best wishes for 2023!

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