Mary Hall Freedom Village

trenches, advocating for his clients. If they need a job, he is actively pounding the pavements, looking for leads, making calls and inquiries, advocating, and opening the door wide open for employment. And not just any job. Nate and teammates help them find careers that matter to each person. If they need transportation, Nate makes it his job to arrange it. If they need housing, clothing, or rent money—he is there, making sure there is a roof over their heads. Hands on, he works face to face with each vet, to provide every service they require to move forward, get reestablished, and lead a joy-filled life.

His happy role is “Helping people having a hard time, to make ends meet.” His energy and enthusiasm are contagious, and he’s one of those who truly “walks the walk.” If there is something he and his department can’t do, he doesn’t stop there. He makes sure his clients have every resource, access, and connection to help them through any barriers to employment, housing, and moving forward. He makes sure they are enrolled in the VA and receive the health care they need. So, what does the future hold for Nate? He is currently working on his Master’s in Recreational Therapy— “Getting the homeless off the concrete and into the fresh air.” He works with an amazing team of like-minded people, mostly veterans, some of whom also gave up high-end jobs to join forces in honor of their fellow veterans, agreeing that this is more than a job, “It’s a lifestyle. Everyone on our team does outreach, looking for opportunities for our clients. We’re always looking for new opportunities, going to events, trying to get our name out there to help veterans.” From career fairs to calling big companies, to advocating for employees, Nate is one busy guy—and now he can honestly say, he’s happy doing what he loves—helping people.

Nate emphasized the importance of follow-up, as well. Not just getting veterans on their feet, but checking on them, reaching out to make sure they stay that way.