Veterans find community, comfort and the help they need transitioning from military service to civilian life

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - The Charlotte-based non-profit, Veterans Bridge Home, was born out of a real need local veterans had acclimating to a new life outside the structured world of service.

“There’s no training program to make you a civilian. It does not exist,” Tommy Norman, the founder of Veterans Bridge Home explained on a video produced for their recent Star Spangled Salute.

“When you get out you have to redefine yourself. What’s your new mission? Who is your new unit? and What are the services you and your family need to be successful?” Executive Director of VBH, Blake Bourne said of our service members.

Veterans Bridge Home is run by veterans like Bourne, who understand the camaraderie veteran miss once outside their branch of the military.

Since it was founded in 2011 they have helped over six thousand veterans and their families.

“The number one thing we’ve seen in that time is employment support. They want to find their next career and a great company to work for,” Bourne said of local veterans.

At their recent gala, Star Spangled Salute, the non-profit raised $527 thousand dollars to provide veterans the resources they need during various transitions in their lives in the Charlotte area.

Veterans Bridge Home describes itself as a one-stop-shop for veterans and families moving to the Charlotte area.

The non-profit makes it very clear in its mission statement:

"Through our network of partners, we help Veterans navigate employment, create social connections, and settle their families.

We look at the whole Veteran and connect them to the resources needed to be successful and thriving leaders in our community."

If you know a veteran who wants to be a part of the VBH community, Veterans Bridge Home has a huge network of resources to share.

I was honored to be a part of such beautiful evening as host. If you would like to help contribute to their efforts you can make a cash donation.

If you know a veteran who might need help, Veterans Bridge Home has a huge network of resources at its disposal.

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