Veterans helping veterans

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jaeda Tookes
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  341st Missile Maintenance Squadron volunteered at the Grace Home Veterans Center in Great Falls, Montana, Aug. 13.

Grace Home is the first transitional living center for homeless male veterans in North Central Montana. The facility has 10 bedrooms, a library, entertainment room, a large kitchen, a dining room and a laundry room.

“Members from the base began assisting with renovations eight months ago under the leadership of myself and Staff Sgt. Herbert Hall,” said Senior Master Sgt. Jason Berger, 341st MMXS chief of facility flight. “Under the leadership of Maj. James Spoo, 741st Maintenance Squadron commander and Maj. Naomi Franchetti, 341st MMXS commander, (we were able to get volunteers from the 341st Maintenance Group).”

According to Hall, 741st MXS vehicle equipment section instructor, MXG Airmen were able to add the final touches to finish Grace Home.

“Seeing us enter the final stages of renovating the home is amazing,” said Hall. “From starting off with holes in the walls, to being a place where someone can live is exciting.”

Veterans who stay at Grace Home receive room and board in exchange for community service, and are able to stay in the home up to two years.

According to Maj. Daniel Brady, 341st MMXS maintenance operations officer, volunteering can feel like an unspoken bond between veterans who are helping veterans.

“Grace Home is not just a shelter that will eventually have the veterans back on the street,” said Hall. “It’s a place where Veterans can get the help and treatment they need.”

Veterans also receive off site access to a variety of services including mental health assistance, addiction recovery services and life coaching to combat issues including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

As part of their recovery, veterans are afforded opportunities to continue their education and participate in employment training services.

“Grace Home will officially open September 24,” said Shawn Doney, Grace Home manager. “The opening ceremony will consist of a walk from the University of Great Falls to Grace Home.”

According to Doney, without the support of the military members coming in on weekends and off-days, Grace Home would not have been able to make opening a success.

Doney says Grace Home members and staff truly appreciate those who volunteered and are thankful.

Those interested in donating or volunteering at Grace Home can contact Doney at 406-761-0870.