We are excited to introduce Victor, a United States Marine. When Victor’s time in the service came to an end, he began searching for that sense of purpose that the military once provided. Like many veterans before him, Victor had trouble adjusting to civilian life. He began battling depression, bouncing from job to job, trying to find his purpose.

That is when HVAF stepped in to help him find his purpose.

Victor first learned about HVAF through a job fair they were hosting, featuring local companies. For Victor, this was a critical opportunity, as his top priority when searching for work was finding a job that allowed him to be present for his kid; he was determined not to be a “FaceTime dad.” While none of the companies at the fair initially caught his eye, Victor refused to give up. Little did he know that day he had made a lasting impression.

Not long after, HVAF reached out to invite him to join their VetWorks program—a three-phase skill-building initiative designed to help veterans transition into successful civilian careers. For Victor, this opportunity checked all the boxes, and he eagerly enrolled in Phase 1 of the program, a 10-week Maintenance Team internship, working onsite at HVAF properties.

“Whenever I started my internship, I didn’t really know what HVAF did. So, like with time, learning what was all being done and like all the different avenues that they’re helping veterans, it just checked every box in my book.”

For Victor, what began as a maintenance technician internship soon became something SO MUCH MORE! With proven work ethic and ability, Victor was invited to join TEAM HVAF as a full-time maintenance technician.

“Knowing that this job benefits actual people who need it, people who gave everything for our country and our freedoms, being able to work for them, essentially, it gives me that extra motivation to do a good job,” Victor says, describing his new position at HVAF.

For Victor, the opportunity was “sent by God” and gave him everything he was looking for in a job, restoring his sense of fulfillment and purpose. Now, he is able to support veterans experiencing homelessness, giving back to the community that helped him!

“It kind of gives me purpose. Whenever I’m working, helping fix up anything in the HVAF properties, I know I’m doing it for my brothers and sisters.”

With veteran unemployment and homelessness remaining critical challenges across the state, stories of successful transitions from military to meaningful civilian careers offer hope and inspiration.

Victor’s journey from U.S. Marine to HVAF maintenance technician demonstrates the transformative power of programs designed specifically for veterans seeking purpose beyond their service.

Victor encourages veterans in need of resources to “run to HVAF,” emphasizing the smooth and accessible support system.

“Everything was set up so perfectly. Nothing was out of reach. Nothing was impossible.”

The support of HVAF donors LIKE YOU played a crucial role in enabling Victor to access resources and opportunities. Victor expressed his deep admiration for those whose contributions opened doors during his internship and encouraged continued investment in our Hoosier Heroes.

“It’s worth it. It’s worth investing in veterans to better themselves and to help them stand up whenever they’re needing help.”

If you want to support veterans like Victor, donate today!

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