VOADV’s footprint is significant – 3 states, 16 counties, many townships and over 10,000 individuals. While our staff’s dedication and knowledge make it possible to provide essential services to our area’s most vulnerable individuals, our partnerships and supporters also play a substantial role in what we are able to do.
One new relationship that we are exciting about growing is with the Edgewater Park Elks Lodge #2550. The members of this Lodge recently presented our CEO Dan Lombardo and Director of Philanthropic Giving Alexis Degan with a donation thanks to their Holman Automative 6th Annual Ride For The Troops. This generous donation will be used at Home For The Brave, our 30 bed transitional housing program for single, male veterans. With a focus on harm reduction and trauma-informed care principles, eligible veterans may reside for up to two years at Home For The Brave while working on recovery, employment, and independent living skills.
Transitioning out of the military and into the community comes with its own unique set of challenges, something that many Elks Lodge members understand. They took their own personal experiences and desire to do good in the community to continue growing one of their many fundraising events, a motorcycle ride sponsored by Holman Automative. However, as we learned when members welcomed us into their Lodge, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Elks’ community involvement. From car washes, golf outings, summer camps and more, they provide countless ways of community support.
We’re grateful for Edgewater Park Elks Lodge #2550’s donation to Home For The Brave and look forward to growing our partnership with them in the future!