Londa introduced Amy Ellenwood, Treasurer of VALOR, acronym for Veterans And Loved Ones Resources, who spoke to us today about her organization.

Their website states:

After serving our nation, too many veterans return home to silent battles — struggling with invisible wounds like PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and the heavy weight of isolation. Every day, 22 veterans lose their lives to suicide in the United States. Behind each number is a story, a family, and a future that could be changed with the power of community and connection.

VALOR was born from veterans, families, and neighbors coming together to create a lifeline — a place where stories are shared, questions are answered, and resources flow freely. Through regular gatherings over meals, we foster trust, friendship, and the kind of support that saves lives. We’re not just a nonprofit; we’re a family, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with those who’ve given so much.

Their Vision - VALOR was born from a growing community of veterans, their loved ones, and community partners coming together to support each other.

• Connecting through shared experiences and common values.
• Answering common questions, and sharing new/changing information.
• Hosting community partners. Sharing learned experience.
• Hope, joy, encouragement, peace of mind, and a sense of belonging.
• Regular gatherings form strong bonds, building reliability and trust.
• Bringing clarity to the process of navigating the VA system.