How to really thank a Veteran

Click above to listen to the KPCC Interview with Tod Lipka and Heidi Marston from 11-9-17.

Two hundred forty eight Veterans are receiving permanent supportive housing, vocational opportunities, and supportive services at Step Up. What Veterans say life in recovery feels like:
“Having energy to do things again.” “There is hope for my life.”
“I’ve made it out of a dark forest.”
“Being alive again.”
“I can let go of the small things and relax enough to live life.”
“Having my motivation back.”
“Getting a piece of my old self and my life back.”
“Happiness and joy can be part of my life again.”
“Ups and downs.”
“A great big sigh of relief.”

Click here to see the tribute plaque saluting each US Veteran receiving services at Step Up.

However, these Veterans are but a fortunate few. Los Angeles County has some 4,800 Veterans experiencing homelessness — the largest number in the nation. It’s our turn to serve them.

We need your help. Step Up is committed to END HOMELESSNESS for an additional 400 Veterans in the next two years. This Veterans Day, we can think of no better way to truly thank a Veteran for their service than to help them regain losses, rebuild relationships, and reclaim their power and resiliency.

Imagine a community where no Veteran is experiencing homelessness. A community where every Veteran who needs permanent supportive housing, vocational opportunities, and a sense of belonging finds it. A community with the capacity to change the future for Veterans experiencing a mental health issue in ways previously unimagined.

Please consider giving a meaningful “Thank You” to a Veteran by supporting the life changing programs of Step Up. And please ask your employer about a corporate gift match – many companies match employee donations to charitable organizations, often dollar for dollar!