On a day when a social worker was closing out an apartment of a home-care client, there was a chance meeting with a 
disabled Vietnam Veteran. They continued to meet and discuss the status of American Veterans. Each had seen many situations where Vets were not able to find help when they were in need. There were situations when Vets were in need of housing, food, jobs, health care and spiritual support. They also realized that the formal Veterans’ government programs were unable to provide assistance to all those Vets in need. Other non-profit organizations were coming forward to fill the void.
The largest obstacle that Vets in need have is knowing where resources are found and/or do not have the abilities to access these services. As these two men continued to discuss the best way to approach this, they decided that forming a tax-exempt non-profit would be how to go. After a year and a half application process, they received the non-profit status for the organization, United States Vets, Inc. Now it was time to address funding for the organization.
Several Veterans were willing to volunteer their time and dates were scheduled at area Wal-Mart stores, where the volunteers set up tables and accepted donations. The funds from this fund-raising were used to get Wal-Mart gift cards for Veterans and their families. These cards were given to both individuals in need and community organizations that support Vets. There were also funds raised at other community events. They are now expanding fundraising efforts and increasing their relationships with community organizations.
These two men were now working through a Board of Directors and community organizations, both governmental and non-profits. This networking was important to meet the mission. As a small organization, they were not focused on direct services, but to act as a true networking organization. The three areas of focus include Advocacy, Referral and Education. Through this approach, they could be most effective by connecting Vets with government/community organizations where they could find services. The tag line is, “Veterans helping Veterans – We ARE (Advocacy, Referral, Education).
Early in 2014, one of the two men, George P. Prokos, a disabled Vietnam Vet, became ill and died. He now rests in the National Cemetery in Holly, MI. In honor of his dream and hard work to help other Vets, the organization continues the work he started. Most of his dreams are in place. Now the work is to continue his dream of making all Veteran’s life dreams become fulfilled.
Those who find this part of their own dream can contact Mr. Chris Cremean, the other Co-Founder of United States Vets, Inc. and help Veterans fulfill this mission.
