Welcome
Dear Friends of the National Center for Healthy Veterans at Valor Farm,
In our Resilience God Style course at Valor Farm, we discuss the Power of NEW. The NEW smell of a recently purchased car, or freshly baked bread, or the cry of a new baby. At Valor Farm, we observe the Power of NEW every three months as new cohorts arrive – a new season of life, new friends, new commitment to a changed lifestyle, and a new optimism that God truly does have a hope and a future for each of us. Our new cohort this month is the Good Shepherds, or Shepherds for short. They are a really solid group of Veterans who are bonding and starting to grow together, experiencing the Power of NEW. I trust you will join me in praying for the “Shepherds.”
On the spiritual plane, NEW is also a powerful concept. From Revelations, “new heaven and new earth.” From 2 Corinthians, “if any man is in Christ he is a new creation.” From Mark, “new wine into new wineskins.” In Sarah Young’s Jesus Calling for January 1, it states “A close walk with God is a life of continual newness.” This spiritual focus on NEW has significant meaning to our Patriots. As they learn to walk closer with God and with their fellow Veterans in community, they regain vital optimism and grow in hope – priceless commodities for every Veteran at Valor Farm and beyond.
Let me remind local friends of NCHV to join us on Veterans Day, November 11, 4 PM, for a powerful commemoration in our indoor riding arena, keynoted by Marine Veteran and Virginia Lieutenant Governor Winsome Sears. This has become a regional highlight each year to honor America’s Veterans. We hope to see you there.
Here’s are some other NEW happenings at Valor Farm:
Plays of the Day – Row4Valor, RucktoRestore, Honey from Valor Farm Bees, Graduations, and New Methodist Pig Roast.
Meet the Team – Assistant Barn Manager, Pete Page.
Diving Deeper – Corporate Sponsorships, a lifeline of success.
In The Media – News Stories, Graduation Speeches, and House Warming.
Prayer Points – Join us in prayer as we continue to support and empower Veterans.
We are grateful for your partnership in this noble mission to give our nation’s Veterans NEW beginnings leading to a life of purpose, contribution, and fulfillment. Your cheers, prayers, volunteerism, and financial support are essential as our team daily walks alongside America’s Veterans on this journey.
Blessings and gratitude to each of you,
Blessings and gratitude to each of you,
Robert F. Dees
Major General, U.S. Army, Retired
President and CEO, National Center for Healthy Veterans
YOUR encouragement and generosity
have made these amazing things happen at Valor Farm. We certainly welcome and need your further support on behalf of Returning Healthy Veterans to America!
Join our Healthy Veterans Community!
Meet The Team
Row4Valor – Matt Morando rowed 40 miles across Smith Mountain Lake in support of NCHV. We cannot be more grateful for his support and resilience as he completed this great task for NCHV. See media highlights for a WSET interview.
RucktoRestore – Traci Polumbo out of Big Lick CrossFit in Roanoke held a 22-mile ruck in support of NCHV on Labor Day, and were able to raise money, as well as awareness for NCHV.
Honey from Valor Farm Bees – We were excited to restock our market with honey from our Valor Farm bees this month.
Graduations – Last week, we had the distinct privilege of holding graduation ceremonies from our RGS and Reboot trimesters, as well as from the overall program. For the Invictus cohort that graduated from the program, we are thrilled to watch them reintegrate into America as Healthy Veterans. For the other two cohorts, we are excited to watch God continue to work in them as they move through the rest of the program. See media highlights for videos.
New Methodist Pig Roast – the Newtown United Methodist Church in Newtown, PA, held a pig roast in support of NCHV, and received a great turnout. We couldn’t do what we do without the support of good people like these!
Pete Page – Assistant Barn Manager
I’m an upstate NY native and grew up in a small town surrounded by dairy farms and pets. I’m the youngest of four siblings, with three older sisters. At the age of 12, I moved to Virginia with my father and sister Kari, to settle in Lynchburg. My involvement with our local veteran’s organizations began in the early 2000’s when I was invited by my brother in-law Brian Powers, himself a Navy veteran, to join the “Running Color Guard” at the Virginia Ten Miler race. It was there that I first befriended many local veterans including Steve Bozeman, USMC Vietnam, who encouraged me to visit the “Monument Terrace Troop Rally” in downtown Lynchburg, where I became a regular visitor and photographer for over ten years. Steve also invited me to run with him at the “Marine Corps Marathon” in Washington, DC. while carrying the “9-11 National Remembrance Flag”. Over time, I competed in eleven consecutive “Virginia Ten Miler’s”, two “Marine Corps Marathons”, two “Marine Corps. Historic Half Marathon’s”, multiple 9-11 “Heroes Run’s” as well as 5k races at the “National D-Day Memorial” in Bedford and received a gold medal at the “Air Force Cycling Classic” in Crystal City, Va. Not being a veteran myself, I had decided that even though I didn’t serve “then” there was plenty of opportunities for me to serve “now”.
At the end of October in 2020 I retired from UPS after 25 yrs and decided to take a different career path. In December of that year, I was encouraged by a friend to volunteer at Valor Farm. I had heard about the National Center for Healthy Veterans groundbreaking ceremony and had been making plans to visit. My first day on the farm was spent clearing brush in our east pasture to make room for some much-needed fence repairs. Over time, I kept returning to help until one day I was asked if I would be willing to muck stalls in the barn. Having been around horses briefly in my younger life, due to my sisters Bonnie and Dawn, I quickly became a regular in the barn. That first year I worked many, many Sundays and acted as our first staff “photographer”. Over time, General Jeff Horne decided to offer me a position with NCHV. I gladly accepted and have since expanded to become our Assistant Barn Manager and a member of our Equine Assisted Therapy team. Following the example of our General Manager, Jake Corwin, I’ve also been given the opportunity to work with some of the younger horses that have come through our horse training program.
At home, I’m proud to say that I’ve been married for 26 years to my amazing wife Angelia. We have a daughter named Indya and a son named Ethan (who can be seen volunteering in many of our early photographs). I enjoy reading, dancing, playing music, cycling and above all…learning. I’m also the current first vice president of the “Lynchburg Area Shag Club” and a member of the “Association of Beach and Shag Club Deejays”.
While I admit I’m not the most scholarly Christian, I am undoubtedly aware of God’s presence in my life and the gift of salvation He has provided me through his son Jesus. I see and feel his guidance in the decisions that brought me to where I am today. I marvel at His creation. As an avid animal person, I’m often drawn to the verses in Job 12:7-10 “But ask the animals, and they will teach you.” As well as “In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.”
As we continue to move forward at NCHV and commit to “Return Healthy Veterans to America” I look forward to many more opportunities to give back to those who have given so much.
Diving Deeper
by Morgan Fisk, NCHV Development Coordinator
One of the key drivers of NCHV success has been the invaluable partnerships we have forged with various corporations across the country. These corporate sponsorships have enabled us to make rapid progress on behalf of veterans, demonstrating the collective effort and commitment of the private sector to this vital cause.
In recent years, we have witnessed a significant increase in the number of corporations stepping up to support our initiatives. This growing trend reflects a broader recognition of the sacrifices made by Veterans and the importance of giving back to those who have served. Our partnerships span a diverse range of industries, each contributing in unique ways to enhance the lives of veterans and their families.
One standout example of corporate support is the recent house dedication of a tiny home here at the farm purchased by Walmart, inspired by the legacy of Sam Walton. In the South-Central region, Walmart has played a crucial role in providing housing solutions for veterans, ensuring that they have a safe and supportive environment as they reintegrate into civilian life. This dedication not only highlights Walmart’s commitment to veterans but also sets a precedent for other corporations to follow.
Additionally, Clark Associates has stepped in with a generous matching grant, along with kitchen equipment donations for Village 1. This support allows us to create fully functional living spaces for veterans, enabling them to regain their independence and build a sense of home. Such partnerships not only provide immediate assistance but also empower veterans to cultivate essential life skills that are crucial for their long-term success.
From day one, Listrak has been a steadfast supporter of our mission. Their contributions have helped us streamline our communications and outreach efforts, allowing us to connect with more veterans and provide them with the services they need. Listrak’s dedication to our cause exemplifies how tech companies can leverage their expertise to drive positive change in the community.
Hilton Properties, including Home2 Suites, have also joined our efforts by offering accommodation that provides Veterans with a welcoming and comfortable place to stay during their transition. These partnerships ensure that Veterans have access to resources and support while they navigate the challenges of reintegration, helping them feel valued and respected.
Another notable partnership is with Merola Tile, who have provided materials to help us create inspiring and functional spaces within our facilities. Their “Valor Farm” tile is a standout contribution, and what makes it even more special is that it includes a revenue-sharing model; a portion of the sales goes to support our mission.
While this is to name just a few, there are many other corporations, including the Lynchburg Business Alliance, that work with us to do all they can to further our mission. Together, these partnerships illustrate the incredible potential of corporate involvement in addressing the needs of veterans. Our initiative, supported by companies across America, thrives on this collaborative spirit. The collective efforts of these corporations are not just making a difference; they are changing lives.
As we look ahead, the National Center for Healthy Veterans remains committed to expanding these partnerships and exploring new opportunities for collaboration. We believe that with the continued support of the corporate sector, we can create lasting change in the lives of veterans and their families. By working together, we can ensure that those who have served our country receive the respect, care, and support they need and deserve.
Valor Farm holds graduation for 3 veterans helped at farm – The Altavista Journal
Row 4 Valor Farm raises $3K to help prevent veteran suicide – WSET ABC News 13
Invictus Graduation
Randy House Warming
- Thursdays at 4:00 p.m. Scheduled Tourscontact@healthyveterans.org if interested.
- First & Third Thursdays: Community Campfire at Valor Farm 6pm Come join us for fellowship!
SEPTEMBER 2024
- Row4Valor Benefit for NCHV – Sep 10
- Bucks County PA Patriot Night – Sep 11
- International Christian Coaching Institute Annual Conference in Dallas – Sep 26
OCTOBER 2024
- Volunteer Appreciation Dinner at Valor Farm – Oct 10
- New York City Boat Cruise in honor of Healthy Veterans – Oct 17
- Murph Challenge at Liberty University on behalf of NCHV – Oct 19
NOVEMBER 2024
- NCHV Veterans Day Commemoration, Guest Speaker – Virginia Lieutenant Governor and Gubernatorial Candidate Winsome Earle-Sears – Monday, November 11, 2024
- Healthy Veterans Appreciation Dinner in Williamsburg – Nov 22
- Lord, in this election season, we ask for your guidance to remain steadfast in our mission of returning healthy veterans to America. Help us stay focused on serving those who have sacrificed so much, providing unwavering support and empowerment as they rebuild their lives. Amen.
- We give thanks for the visible and invisible signs of healing and restoration in the lives of our Veterans. May these transformations continue to blossom, a testament to Your love and the dedication of those who serve them. Amen.
- We encourage grateful prayers for our donors whose steadfast commitment makes our mission to Return Healthy Veterans to America possible. May their generosity inspire others to join us in this vital work.
- Pray for wisdom and knowledge to work with our Veterans and families who are suffering with PTS/PTSD and other mental and emotional issues.
- Pray for the NCHV Staff and volunteers; continued health and stamina. Pray for their families. Praise God for the men and women He sends to continue the work of “Returning Healthy Veterans to America.”
- Join us in praising God for the beauty of His Creation — horses, rivers, cattle, valleys, chickens, the fruit of the land, the beauty of the fields, the wonder of His Creation.
