This veterans outreach project is entitles "Veterans Hope." There is a Facebook page with the same title that I encourage any and all that value our veterans to come and "like" our page. Doing so will give you firsthand access to what is happening within the program, see the veterans who are able to take advantage of what the program offers and even access to any work done by the veterans in the program. This program takes disabled veterans and teaches them new skills such as mechanics, woodworking, welding, metal working and painting. I am a 100% disabled combat veteran myself. For some disabled veterans, there are programs out there that assist them in getting jobs or new careers. While those programs are awesome, for other disabled veterans the possibility of ever getting a job is just not possible due to their injuries. Myself and many other veterans are very disturbed about the recently released statistic that has over 22 veterans committing suicide every day. In hopes of bringing that number down to zero, we have started different groups that reach out to at risk veterans with everything from simple forums to just talk to actually having veterans check in with other veterans. My program is geared towards teaching disabled veterans how to work on varying projects with the intention of giving them purpose in life again. There is nothing more discouraging than to sit in front of a television all day every day knowing that there is nothing for you to do anymore. Maybe it is because of injuries or maybe it is because they don't know how to perform certain tasks. This program gives those veterans a life line allowing them a chance to learn new skills and fellowship with other veterans who are dealing with the same kind of challenges in life they are.

Risks and challenges

I have many backers that are willing to donate not only materials but their time as well. Home Depot is looking to donate over $20,000 in equipment alone with other veterans willing to come in and teach skills. This funding request is for startup expenses alone. There is a building that we have our eye on yet nothing is set in stone. The problem is the building has not been used for anything for several years and needs some plumbing, electrical and heating work done before it is ready to house the program. As I mentioned above, there is a great need for programs like this all over the country to combat the alarming amount of veterans choosing a permanent solution to a temporary problem even though they may feel all is lost. If I had my way I would already be up and running this program in every single city within the country yet funding restrictions make doing so not possible at this time. With that said, time is of the essence and getting at least one program off the ground and a reality needs to happen as quickly as possible. Once this pilot program reaches a point where expansion is possible, I will stop at nothing to reach as many at risk veterans as is humans possible. I NEED your help in this very worthy and worthwhile endeavor. I can't do this alone...