When Susan arrived at the VFW National Home in January 1997, she was searching for something many families take for granted: stability.
A friend had told her about the National Home at a time when she and her children—Christina, Melissa, and Tyler—were living in a very unstable situation. Unsure of what the future held, Susan made the courageous decision to seek a better life for her family and moved onto campus.
What she found at the VFW National Home was more than a place to live. She found a community ready to help her rebuild.
The support her family received touched nearly every aspect of their lives. The National Home provided housing, childcare, counseling, transportation, and the structure they desperately needed to move forward. For Susan, one service stood out in particular.
“Transportation was a Godsend,” she recalled, especially when it came to getting her children where they needed to be. As any parent knows, reliable transportation can make all the difference—and for Susan, it removed one more barrier standing between her family and a brighter future.
With the support of the National Home behind her, Susan began laying the foundation for lasting change. She worked full time during the day and attended school at night, determined to create new opportunities for herself and her children. Through hard work and perseverance, she earned her bachelor’s degree while raising her family and building a better future.
Meanwhile, her children flourished. They participated in activities such as 4-H, gaining valuable experiences, friendships, and life skills. Her son Tyler was honored as the 1999 Buddy Poppy Child, creating memories and connections that remain meaningful to this day.
The years Susan spent at the National Home were transformative. The stability and support her family received allowed her to focus not only on surviving, but on planning for the future. By the time her children completed school, Susan had achieved goals that once seemed out of reach. She was able to purchase a home of her own and move her family into the next chapter of their lives.
Looking back, Susan describes herself as more hopeful, confident, motivated, and grateful because of her experience at the VFW National Home.
Her appreciation for the VFW, Auxiliary members, donors, staff, and volunteers remains profound.
“You all were a Godsend,” she shared. “Without you there would be no home. You’re all transforming lives.”
For current and future residents, Susan offers simple but powerful advice: make the most of every opportunity the National Home provides and remain grateful for the support available.
Susan’s story is a testament to what can happen when determination meets opportunity. Through the generosity of those who support the VFW National Home, families facing difficult circumstances are given more than assistance—they are given hope, encouragement, and the chance to build a brighter future.
For Susan and her children, that opportunity changed everything.
