Wow is all I can say. I found out about this organization last year when they were putting on a 3-day 2-night event to bus in veterans from 6 countries in Northeast Florida. It was amazing to see their President in the thick of all the work she was getting her hands dirty and working beside her crew of volunteers. I followed them on social media and even went to a few planning meetings. The lady in charge Sharon was her name and she didn't care who joined the event as long as they were there to help. It was amazing to see how she wanted to invite anyone to help and give to the veterans. the event was originally supposed to be earlier in the year but Florida was hit by a hurricane and needed to be moved. So it was moved to the first week in December. and this was like a sign she said to give our veterans Xmas and she added a bunch of holiday stuff to give the veterans a Xmas it was so touching to see the change in the veterans at that event. they had hairdressers, clothing, Santa, and a Xmas tree for the veterans to decorate it was absolutely amazing to see the transformation of the veterans that came out to this retreat and stand down.. The love that Sharon and her board gave these veterans is why I will be donating to the Veterans Village of Northeast Florida
I have served on the board since the inception of this organization. Although we are still new, the passion and conviction of the people is undeniable. Working tirelessly to promote the vision that is the VVNEFL, Sharon has become an advocate in the community for those without a voice and for those who wonder our streets seeking shelter, food and help after serving our country to make sure that we have the freedom to live in the United States of America. I will continue to give my time, talents and energy to seeing the dreams and aspirations of the Veterans Village of Northeast Florida to fruition. I am excited about the possibilities the future holds. This organization will be a bright future for our veterans.
I like how the CEO wants to bring all organizations together instead of competing or working against each other to help homeless and at-risk veterans. The CEO is not a veteran but she is a Gold Star family member who has profound respect and understanding of what our homeless and at-risk veterans need. The village is not up and running yet and is still in the fundraising stages but the organization has a referral system to ensure veterans are connected to the right resources.