About Houses for Warriors
Supporting those who have served
ABOUT US
At Houses For Warriors, we believe that our nation’s veterans deserve the best possible support and resources to help them successfully transition to civilian life after their service. Our dedicated team of veteran leaders and advocates work tirelessly to provide a holistic program that offers our Warriors the structure, resources, and support they need to thrive.
We understand that the effects of serving in the military can be significant and long-lasting, which is why our program is designed to address the unique needs and challenges that our Warriors may face. From transitional housing and benefits support to vocational training and mentorship, we offer a comprehensive range of services that are tailored to the individual needs of each Warrior.
Our program is designed to promote life-changing success and spiritual awakening, helping our Warriors to achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. By providing the structure and resources necessary for success, we believe that our Warriors can overcome the challenges of transitioning to civilian life and thrive in all areas of their lives.
We rely on the generosity of donors and community partners to help us provide these critical resources to our Warriors. Your donations help us to continue our important work and provide the support and resources that our veterans need and deserve. Join us in our mission to end veteran homelessness and support our nation’s heroes.
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission at houses for warriors is to provide veterans with the support, resources and housing the need to successfully transition to civilian life. We strive to create a safe and stable community that helps veterans overcome the unique challenges they face, including homelessness, mental health issues, and social isolation. Through our innovative housing solutions, wrap-around services, and advocacy efforts, we aim to improve the quality of life for all veterans and ensure that they receive the respect and care they deserve. Our ultimate goal is to empower veterans to live with dignity, independence, and purpose.
A HAND UP NOT A HAND OUT
We help, guide, and direct homeless and at-risk military veterans into self-sufficient status while providing a safe, caring and loving environment. We believe that every Warrior deserves a Hand-Up so they are more equipped to handle modern society’s fast-paced lifestyle. Growth is possible at any age, any stage of life, and for any life path. Warriors have spent their whole lives Serving, so now it is time for them to be given a place to transform their lives.
VISION
Improper care for our military veterans contributes to current economic and sociopolitical crises such as homelessness, mental health issues, and poverty. People often express respect for our Troops, but few places like Houses For Warriors exist to completely devote their resources to Warrior enrichment. Therefore, we offer a Program that creates self-sufficient, successful, productive, and functional members of society. In an ideal world, every Warrior would be cared for and assisted so they can reach their fullest potential. We have created the space that makes this idea a reality.
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.”
WHAT WE DO
The Warrior House Program (WHP) creates a positive, professional environment that helps Warriors feel safe, secure, and have their needs met. Each of our loving staff and volunteers are completely devoted to supporting our Warriors in their personal development and achieving their goals, with respect and dignity. Every single member of our staff goes above and beyond for our Warriors, creating a lasting impact on their perception of socialization. We want to remind Warriors of the beauty that is found within interpersonal connections. The WHP enables emotional stability and physical health through a comprehensive Program that encourages spiritual awakening.
We provide:
- Personal Development Classes
- Assigned Mentor
- Bed, Bedding, Pillow
- Food
- Clothing vouchers
- Help with benefits applications
- transportation (when available)
- Toiletries
- In-house gym equipment
- Commercial internet
- House computer/printer
- Financial/budgeting workshops
- Resume writing/job assistance
- Volunteer opportunities
- A Team that loves and appreciates our Veterans for their sacrifices for our Country
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” ~John F. Kennedy
WHAT IS A HAND UP?
A strong community requires a strong foundation. Groups of Warriors are strong individuals, but they are even stronger together. Providing them with the resources they need for life-changing success heightens their chances for avoiding homelessness, overcoming mental health struggles, and re-assimilating as a high-functioning member of society. A hand-up is a resource, such as a program or class, that paves the way for Warriors’ seamless transition after their Service ends.
STATISTICS
- 40% of all veteran suicides experienced homelessness according to VA Suicide Prevention Roundtable Report of 2019
- 22 veterans commit suicide every day since 2009
- 2019, Yale Study showed Veterans are 5-times more likely to commit suicide if they experience homelessness, 3 times more than any other demographics
“Homeless and at-risk veterans need more than just shelter. We must give them the tools to empower themselves and reclaim the self-worth and dignity which comes from occupying a place in the American dream. It is a dream they fought so hard to defend for the rest of us.”
***Maria Cuomo Cole is a homelessness advocate and film producer.
About the Founder and CEO
Meet Andrew Canales
Andrew Canales is an accomplished entrepreneur with a passion for supporting his fellow veterans. After six years of honorable service in the United States Air Force, including two combat tours in Iraq, Andrew went on to establish a successful career as a business owner.
With a deep commitment to serving his country and his community, Andrew founded Your Colorado Movers (YoCo Movers), a thriving moving and storage company that has been recognized for its exceptional service and commitment to excellence. Under his leadership, YoCo Movers has become a trusted name in the industry, known for its reliability, efficiency, and attention to detail.
In addition to his business ventures, Andrew has dedicated himself to supporting homeless and injured veterans through his nonprofit organization, Houses For Warriors. As the founder and CEO of this 501(c)(3) organization, he has created a range of programs and services aimed at providing transitional housing, benefits, and personal development resources to veterans in need.
Andrew’s unique perspective as a veteran himself has enabled him to connect with his fellow veterans on a personal level, and his unwavering commitment to serving their needs has inspired countless others to get involved in his mission. With Houses For Warriors, Andrew has created a network of strategic partnerships and opportunities with businesses, donors, and community leaders across the country, all with the goal of ending veteran homelessness in the United States and improving the quality of life for every veteran struggling with homelessness.
As an inspiring entrepreneur and dedicated veteran, Andrew Canales continues to make a significant impact in the lives of those around him. With his big heart and unwavering commitment to service, he serves as a role model for others in the community and beyond
About the Vice-President aand Executive Secretary
Meet LaShae Rock
Eva LaShae Rock is a dedicated and compassionate Vice President of Houses For Warriors, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to her role in supporting homeless and injured veterans. With a successful career as a hairstylist spanning over 30 years, and 16 years of business ownership, Ms. Rock is deeply committed to serving her community with style and grace.
As a single mother of two, Ms. Rock has faced her own challenges and struggles, which have driven her to serve others with even greater passion and determination. Her personal experience as the mother of a veteran who has struggled with severe PTSD and difficulty obtaining benefits has fueled her unwavering commitment to helping other veterans find affordable housing, rehabilitation, and vocational training.
In her role as Vice President of Houses For Warriors, Ms. Rock plays a crucial role in the acquisition of real estate and the setup of rental housing for veterans in need. She works tirelessly to ensure that every veteran in the program has access to safe, comfortable, and affordable housing, as well as the support and resources they need to thrive.
In her spare time, Ms. Rock enjoys spending time with friends and family, indulging in her love of movies and crafts, and embarking on thrilling adventures such as white water rafting. Her boundless energy, compassion, and dedication make her an inspiring role model for all those around her.
About the Chief of development
Meet Jason Snodgrass
Jason is a visionary Veteran entrepreneur and experienced executive leader based in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. He is currently an Executive Advisor for Redo Voting (Atlanta, Georgia), a start-up company that aims to bring to market and the world’s first un-hackable voting system. Jason is part of a team of experts developing nationwide operations and is responsible for Florida-specific business development and cultivating potential new business in the state.
Prior to his current position, Jason served as the Chief Operating and Program Officer for K9s For Warriors, in Ponte Vedra, Florida. In this role, he was a staunch supporter of Veterans entering the program, working tirelessly to implement a program that effectively addressed the PTSD and suicide epidemics among Veterans. He has also worked in the proprietary education sector as a Director of Financial Aid, aiding numerous military heroes in pursuing their higher education aspirations by assisting them with VA benefits, including vocational rehabilitation and the GI Bill.
Jason has held key roles in developing and implementing policies and procedures for multi-site, national operations with multimillion-dollar annual budgets. He established innovative practices that have since become industry standards in the field. His leadership also included mentoring and building teams dedicated to serving Veterans and improving their lives. Additionally, Jason contributed significantly to research studies on the effectiveness of service dogs in mitigating PTSD symptoms.
In the summer of 1997, Jason joined the active-duty Army and completed his infantryman training at Fort Benning. He received orders to Fort Campbell, where he was initially assigned to the 3/502 Infantry Regiment. He was later selected to join the historic 101st Pathfinder Company and deployed to Iraq in 2003. During this deployment, he was a leader a personnel recovery team and sustained injuries that led to his medical retirement in 2006.
In his personal life, Jason enjoys traveling with his wife, who is also an Army Veteran. They have two English Bulldogs named Sherman and Charlie, and a daughter who is currently in college in Oklahoma. Jason attended the University of Oklahoma before enlisting in the Army. He later earned a B.S. in Business Administration, as well as certifications in Six Sigma Green Belt, Servant Leadership, Plant-Based Nutrition, and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills.
Jason has received numerous accolades for his achievements and volunteer work, including being nominated for Veterans of Influence by the Jacksonville Business Journal in 2017, receiving the Distinguished Veteran Award from the Florida Association of Nonprofits in 2016, and being a part of the Leadership Jacksonville, Class of 2019. He has also served on several non-profit boards of directors and still volunteers locally. His passion for assisting people and his fellow Veterans is palpable and nationwide.
About the Program Director and
Volunteer Coordinator
Meet Stacey Hodges
Stacey Hodges is an invaluable member of the Houses For Warriors team, serving as Program Director and Food Program Coordinator. With a deep commitment to supporting homeless and injured veterans, Stacey plays a critical role in the day-to-day operations of the program, ensuring that every veteran in our care receives the support and resources they need to lead fulfilling lives.
Drawing on her extensive experience as a former occupational therapist and a mother of three, Stacey brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her work at Houses For Warriors. She is dedicated to creating a welcoming, supportive environment for every veteran in the program, and works tirelessly to build strong relationships with our food partners and secure essential donations to keep our veterans healthy and well-fed.
In her role as Program Director, Stacey serves as a vital link between our House Manager and CEO, providing critical support and guidance to ensure that the program runs smoothly and efficiently. She is also responsible for managing our volunteer cooking program and other volunteer opportunities, ensuring that every volunteer has the support and resources they need to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our veterans.
Outside of her work at Houses For Warriors, Stacey enjoys pursuing her passions for cooking, gardening, travel, and pottery. Her unwavering dedication to serving others and making a positive impact in the world makes her an inspiring role model for all those around her.
