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

Summary Meeting Purpose Podcast interview with veteran entrepreneur Bob Hildreth about his journey and business Two Homeless Vets Key Takeaways Bob founded Two Homeless Vets to help transition homeless veterans into stable housing and employment through community support, skills training, and entrepreneurship opportunities The organization uses a dual non-profit/for-profit model to provide services and generate revenue through house flipping and fencing projects Bob emphasizes the importance of identity, community, and healing for veterans transitioning to civilian life The business aims to create a large-scale "heroes village" in North Carolina to support 5,000-7,500 homeless veterans Topics Bob's Background and Military Service Served in U.S. Army and Army Reserve from 1986-1994 Originally trained as an 18D (Special Forces Medic) but became an airborne medic due to injury Influenced by early mentor who was one of the original Green Berets Experienced homelessness and PTSD after leaving the military Transition Challenges for Veterans Lack of structured plan and support when leaving military Loss of identity tied to military service Need for community and purpose in civilian life Difficulty adapting to less regimented civilian environment Two Homeless Vets Business Model For-profit arm provides job training and employment through fencing and house flipping projects Non-profit arm (Healing Crayons) allows for land acquisition and grant funding Plans to develop food truck program to provide entrepreneurship opportunities for veterans Offers up to 2-year residency in transition centers for veterans to heal and develop skills Vision for Growth Aims to create a "heroes village" in Central North Carolina Goal to support 5,000-7,500 homeless veterans in a community setting Leverages temperate climate and available land in the region Seeks to partner with local community colleges for education programs Current Needs and Challenges Seeking volunteer organizational support to complement visionary leadership Need for funding to acquire properties like assisted living centers for treatment programs Looking to expand network of veteran mentors and support across different states Next Steps Reach out to Bob via email ( [email protected] ) to volunteer or discuss partnerships Follow Two Homeless Vets on Facebook for updates Bob to send social media information to podcast host for cross-promotion Continue developing organizational structure and seeking funding opportunities Work towards ribbon-cutting ceremony for future facility opening