HVAF BLOG
Check out our latest stories, events, and the best part of the job: our success stories.
September 20, 2021
“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 Living Room Lounge, a fellow […]
September 16, 2021
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 of the proceeds benefitted HVAF! […]
September 14, 2021
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 time (!!) at the Indiana […]
September 7, 2021
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 receive support at HVAF. He […]
September 7, 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 a bit different and so […]
August 31, 2021
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 only now coming into focus—including […]
August 24, 2021
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 office and talked through Gerrie’s […]
August 18, 2021
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 provides programs and services to […]
August 17, 2021
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 service members; and their families, […]
August 10, 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 the Dog Days of Summer? […]
August 10, 2021
For the third time since 2019, one of HVAF’s veterans has had the opportunity to become a first-time homeowner. Thanks to Habitat for Humanity! A long time coming This time, the opportunity came for Marine Corps veteran Troy. We first met Troy in 2008 – […]
July 23, 2021
Every Friday morning, you can find HVAF Board Member David Certo at Marion County Superior Court 12 in Indianapolis. In 2015, Judge Certo established a Veterans Court in Indianapolis. According to the Indianapolis Government website: IVC provides a specialized court docket that focuses on veterans’ […]
July 21, 2021
A few months ago, HVAF received a $4.7 million grant from Lilly Endowment, Inc. for the Veteran Workforce Development Team. The grant is being used to launch a workforce development program dubbed VetWorks: Veterans Workforce Renewing Knowledge and Skills. It serves as a multi-phase, collaborative […]
July 19, 2021
Three lucky veterans walked away from HVAF’s food, clothing, and hygiene pantry with more than just their essential items last week. Army veteran Michael, Navy veteran Larry, and Army veteran Andrea won $100 Kroger gift cards – thanks to The Bob Woodruff Foundation and the […]
July 14, 2021
Below are sentiments from our President & CEO, Brian Copes: There is a saying among old Soldiers, “The Army never changes and… the Army is always changing.” It was a tongue-in-cheek bit of wisdom to remind (and comfort) us that change is inevitable, constant, often […]
