Two Decades Later: The Lingering Impact of 9/11 and Veterans’ Outreach’s Ongoing Mission of Support

Twenty-two years have passed since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, forever altering the landscape of the United States and the lives of its citizens. The attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 people, while leaving countless others with physical and emotional scars. Today, the consequences of that fateful day continue to reverberate.

In the aftermath of 9/11, the United States embarked on a mission to protect and defend its values. The result was more than two decades of conflict, which saw a new generation of veterans return home, having faced many challenges and sacrifices in the name of freedom.

As we reflect on the enduring impact of 9/11, we find that the work is far from over. These veterans, like previous war veterans, continue to experience the effects of their service in various ways. Some face physical injuries, while others confront the invisible wounds of war, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The transition to civilian life can be complex, and for many, it’s a journey marked by uncertainty and hardship.

Here at Veterans’ Outreach, we recognize the ongoing needs of all veterans. Our organization has made it a mission to answer the call of hope, providing vital services and support to those who have served our nation.

For all those who have served, we are here to offer support, resources, and a helping hand. Our organization recognizes the collective responsibility to ensure that every veteran receives the recognition and assistance they deserve.

As we mark the 22nd anniversary of 9/11, we must remember that the events of that day continue to shape the lives of veterans and the nation as a whole. It is our hope that through organizations like us here at Veterans’ Outreach, we can honor the sacrifices made by these brave men and women and ensure that they receive the support they need to thrive.

The legacy of 9/11 lives on in the resilience and determination of our veterans, and we are here to answer their call for hope, just as they answered the call to serve. It is our collective duty to stand by our veterans, showing them the gratitude and support they deserve for their sacrifices and service to our nation.

The Aftermath of Chaos

The Aftermath of Chaos

The aftermath of a recent storm in our area caused a lot of power outages. A veteran came into our office as the power had been out for several days. Nervously, he had no idea how long it would be off. They needed some assistance because they have a generator at their house and that ensures that everything they need is readily available and they can stay comfortable in their home. Thankfully, we were able to give enough him fuel cards to keep the generator going and also a gift card for prepared foods. We are so happy to have been able to help this veteran and grateful that he came to us for help. Problem solved!

Working Together Changes Lives

Working Together Changes Lives

Recently, we had a veteran come to our office from a referral from another government agency that got her from homelessness to an apartment. She was so grateful, but now she needed help turning her newfound house into a home. We were able to assist her in getting furniture and, better yet, we gave her a referral to an agency to get a job. She not only received her furniture, but she also got a job. We are so grateful to have been a part of her story. From Homelessness to Home.

An Act of Selflessness.

An Act of Selflessness.

A few weeks ago, a young girl called and said she and her sister hold a fundraising dinner once a year in memory of their brother, Neil Brant. They host a dinner at a place in Hubbard.  It raises about $3000 each year.  They asked if we could find a veteran they could meet and make a difference. Our Services Director was on the hunt! He found a female veteran who needed home repair for $600.

The rest of it they gave us last week to all be used for one veteran.  Our Services Director contacted a Vietnam vet who has had cancer and several other health issues.  He needs a roof repair.  It’s a small ranch.  The $2400 could purchase the materials to do the whole roof if we could find some volunteers to do the work.  Long story short – we need a roofing company that can help out this Vietnam Veteran! Please contact us if you know of any willing to do this for this veteran.

ABATE Benefit Run

We are so grateful for ABATE Region Zero and all of its members and volunteers. This year they held their 9th Annual Benefit Run for Veterans’ Outreach. They work tirelessly to put on a wonderful event that raises funds for local veterans. Masters Bar and Grill was once again the location and they are always incredible. We are so grateful for them and for all they have done for Veterans’ Outreach. They are truly and blessing and we are honored to have their support! Thank you ABATE Region Zero, to everyone who put this event together, and to everyone that participated! We are humbled.

Humana Gives Back

Last week, we received a wonderful amount of non-perishable items from our friend George and Humana. They put on a non-perishable food drive for Veterans’ Outreach which we are so grateful for. This food will feed so many veterans for weeks to come. Organizations, companies, and individuals that come together for the betterment of our area’s veterans are what this is all about. We are always so thankful for our supporters. This was a huge turnout! Thank you so very much George! We are so blessed to have you and Humana always coming out to help veterans.

It Takes A Village

John Sprague Carpet Cleaning gave us such a surprise! As you know, we purchased a new facility for our corporate headquarters that is currently undergoing a massive transformation. We are having to save money however we can and so instead of tearing up the carpet, we were anxious to see if it could be cleaned instead. A few phone calls later we found John Sprague Carpet Cleaning is the best around. A couple of weeks ago they came out and took on this monster of a project. When it was all said and done, this amazing company donated the labor to get the job done. They did an incredible job and the difference is night and day! We are so thankful for them.

The Muransky's.

Thank you Muransky Family and St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church!

Last week, our friends the Muransky’s came by and delivered a much-needed donation from a special Bingo event that they organized. The event was held at St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church Social Fund. The event was a huge success and we were blessed enough to be the beneficiary. On top of that, they also delivered a donation from GCU, Greek Catholic Union. We are so grateful for the Muransky Family and for all of our community support, near and far! We can’t find enough words in the English language to express how thankful we are for you.

Northcoast Miata Club- Thank you!

Over the past few weeks, the NorthcoastMiata Club came together for our veterans. In total, they collected a whooping 226 pairs of new socks for veterans. We are so thankful for their kindness. Socks are such a vital necessity and a welcome donation. Now, our veterans can come in and receive quality socks at no charge to them. We are grateful for this donation. This is another example of how a seemingly simple gesture can truly change a day’s outlook. We welcome and are so thankful for organizations and groups that pull together to put these types of collections and donations together. Thank you Northcoast Miata Club!

Happy Birthday (With a Twist!)

One of our longest friends and employees has been with us here at Veterans’ Outreach since basically the beginning, 25+ years ago. He has always been a diligent worker and has raised a lot of funds for the veterans that we help. If we could make a few copies of him, the world would genuinely be a better place.

His wife called us a couple months ago and let us in on a secret, she was throwing him a surprise birthday party with a twist! Instead of a traditional birthday present, she asked party goers to make a donation to Veterans’ Outreach in lieu of. He and his wife delivered a huge surprise! In total, they raised $1,011!

Happy Birthday friend, we thank you and your wife for your tireless support all of these years. We are so grateful for your kindness and generosity.