Episode 19 Category Public Service & Government Bob Hildreth (Veteran Home Service) audio

SummaryMeeting PurposePodcast interview with veteran entrepreneur Bob Hildreth about his journey and business Two Homeless VetsKey TakeawaysBob founded Two Homeless Vets to help transition homeless veterans into stable housing and employment through community support, skills training, and entrepreneurship opportunitiesThe organization uses a dual non-profit/for-profit model to provide services and generate revenue through house flipping and fencing projectsBob emphasizes the importance of identity, community, and healing for veterans transitioning to civilian lifeThe business aims to create a large-scale "heroes village" in North Carolina to support 5,000-7,500 homeless veteransTopicsBob's Background and Military ServiceServed in U.S. Army and Army Reserve from 1986-1994Originally trained as an 18D (Special Forces Medic) but became an airborne medic due to injuryInfluenced by early mentor who was one of the original Green BeretsExperienced homelessness and PTSD after leaving the militaryTransition Challenges for VeteransLack of structured plan and support when leaving militaryLoss of identity tied to military serviceNeed for community and purpose in civilian lifeDifficulty adapting to less regimented civilian environmentTwo Homeless Vets Business ModelFor-profit arm provides job training and employment through fencing and house flipping projectsNon-profit arm (Healing Crayons) allows for land acquisition and grant fundingPlans to develop food truck program to provide entrepreneurship opportunities for veteransOffers up to 2-year residency in transition centers for veterans to heal and develop skillsVision for GrowthAims to create a "heroes village" in Central North CarolinaGoal to support 5,000-7,500 homeless veterans in a community settingLeverages temperate climate and available land in the regionSeeks to partner with local community colleges for education programsCurrent Needs and ChallengesSeeking volunteer organizational support to complement visionary leadershipNeed for funding to acquire properties like assisted living centers for treatment programsLooking to expand network of veteran mentors and support across different statesNext StepsReach out to Bob via email ( [email protected] ) to volunteer or discuss partnershipsFollow Two Homeless Vets on Facebook for updatesBob to send social media information to podcast host for cross-promotionContinue developing organizational structure and seeking funding opportunitiesWork towards ribbon-cutting ceremony for future facility opening