LIVE Christmas Benefit Concert at The Foundry - Waynesboro, VA

What if supporting veterans was less about words and more about meaningful action? At a time when many organizations spend heavily on marketing and salaries, one grassroots effort proves every dollar goes directly to those who need it most—no admin fees, no middlemen, just pure impact.In this special episode recorded live at Virginia’s Foundry during the annual Salute Christmas Benefit, you'll discover how community, tradition, and relentless passion come together to support our heroes. From a veteran-led hunting retreat in West Virginia to innovative wellness programs at James Madison University, these stories reveal a powerful truth: when people unite around shared purpose, real change happens.You'll hear from Jason Cotton, a 27-year Army veteran, who turned a simple idea into an annual bonding experience that builds brotherhood and sustains spirits. Empowerment 3 students and staff share how they’re creating accessible mental health support and mentorship programs that are free for veterans—because true support is about action, not just words.And it’s not just about the big, organized events. This episode captures the raw, emotional moments of veterans sharing stories of sacrifice, survival, and survival skills like processing their own meat—passing down traditions that sustain both body and soul. These grassroots efforts are shaping the future by remembering our roots, embracing the old ways, and blending them with new technologies and strategies for the next generation.Why does this matter? Because with society’s focus on digital innovation, these timeless skills and community bonds provide a vital balance—something AI or social media can’t replace. This episode challenges you to look beyond surface support, to see the real power of local action and volunteer-driven initiatives that respect our veterans’ sacrifices and help them thrive.Whether you're a veteran, a supporter, or someone who believes in community-led change, this episode will inspire you to act. It’s about knowing that your involvement—big or small—can make a difference that lasts generations.Join us to celebrate stories of resilience, brotherhood, and the transformative impact of giving back—because these are the veteran stories that truly matter.Perfect for supporters, veterans, and community-minded listeners ready to see real impact. Hit play and be part of something bigger.---🔗 Links & ResourcesSALUTE of Virginia – Veteran-led nonprofit supporting veterans across Virginia🌐 https://saluteofvirginia.org📱 Instagram / Facebook: @saluteofvirginiaThe Foundry at Basic City Beer Co. – Live recording location for the SALUTE Christmas Benefit📍 Waynesboro, VA🌐 https://basiccitybeer.comEmpowerment³ (James Madison University) – Free wellness, mentorship & suicide-prevention programs for veterans🎓 James Madison University📧 Contact: [email protected]🌐 https://www.jmu.edu/empowerment3/Veterans Hunting Retreat (SALUTE of Virginia) – Annual retreat focused on connection & community🏔 Hosted at Lodestar Mountain Inn, West Virginia🌐 https://lodestarmountaininn.com---Listen & Subscribe to Veteran Story Hour: Voices of Valor, Presented by SALUTE of Virginia, everywhere podcasts can be heardEvery veteran has a story worth preserving—stories of courage, sacrifice, humor, and humanity. Veteran Story Hour captures these remarkable personal histories directly from the voices of the men and women who’ve served our nation. Recorded live each week at SALUTE of Virginia in Waynesboro, this podcast creates a living history, ensuring these powerful memories are preserved and shared for generations to come. Hosted by John Fairbanks of the Shenandoah Valley Story Network, join us as we honor those who served by listening, reflecting, and remembering.Because every veteran’s story deserves to be told—and every voice deserves to be heard.