NVHS’s 9th Annual Rescuing Veterans Lost in America Gala

The 9th Annual Rescuing Veterans Lost in America Gala, co-hosted by Brevard’s esteemed Constitutional Officers, was a night to remember. The event, which took place in Brevard County, was a shining example of the community’s dedication to eliminating homelessness among veterans. With a sold-out room of 490 attendees, including 124 veterans from all military branches, the evening was a powerful testament to the collective commitment to this critical cause.

The gala united a unique network of community leaders, corporations, small businesses, and law enforcement officers. This gathering highlighted the importance of a unified approach to addressing the challenges faced by veterans, particularly those at risk of homelessness. The presence of such a diverse group underscored the shared responsibility of ensuring that no veteran in Brevard County, or anywhere else, is left without a home.

A Night of Gratitude and Recognition

The evening began with a warm welcome and heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the event possible. George Taylor Jr. expressed deep gratitude to Brevard’s Constitutional Officers, including Dana Blickley, Lisa Cullen, Tim Bobanic, Rachel Sadoff, and Sheriff Ivey. These officers have consistently supported the gala, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the cause year after year. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in the cancellation of one event, this year’s gala marked a decade of their involvement. This milestone speaks volumes about their dedication.

In his opening remarks, George reflected on the unique spirit of Brevard County. “Each year, as I stand here and look at this crowd, I am humbled,” he said. “Brevard County truly is a special place. In my opinion, there isn’t another county in the state, or maybe even the country, that would gather such a diverse group of people for one night and one purpose: reaffirming our community’s efforts to eliminate veteran homelessness.”

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Veteran Advocate of the Year Award. This prestigious award was given to LTC Tim Thomas, USA (Ret.), who has dedicated the past 14 years to serving as a Senior Army Instructor at Viera High School. LTC Thomas was recognized for his tireless efforts guiding cadets toward successful military careers. His work prepares young men and women for service and instills in them the values of discipline, leadership, and community service—qualities essential to addressing the issue of veteran homelessness.

A Community United in Support

The gala also recognized the many organizations and individuals who contribute to the mission of the National Veterans Homeless Support (NVHS). The event was supported by 37 Bronze Sponsors, with Senator Tom Wright serving as a Silver Sponsor. The contributions of these sponsors, along with the dedication of NVHS’s employees, Board of Directors, and volunteers, were crucial to the success of the evening and the ongoing efforts to support veterans in need.

The economic impact of the past few years has been particularly harsh on vulnerable populations, including veterans. George Taylor Jr. addressed the growing challenges veterans face in Brevard County, where housing costs have risen by 33% while incomes have lagged behind. “Families that were barely getting by found themselves in dire straits,” he noted. “With 10% of Brevard’s population being veterans, they were not exempt from this.”

In response to the increasing demand for assistance, NVHS has worked tirelessly to provide support to veterans at risk of homelessness. The organization experienced a 36% increase in clients served, with 544 individuals, including 353 veterans and 191 family members. Despite the financial strain, NVHS was able to prevent homelessness for 196 individuals and pull 23 veterans off the streets and into housing.

The success of these efforts was evident in the preliminary results of the Brevard Homeless Coalition’s annual point-in-time count. While the overall homelessness rate in Brevard County increased by 2%, the number of veterans living on the streets decreased by 20%. Without the intervention of NVHS, homelessness in the county would have risen by 22%, and the number of homeless veterans would have increased by 48%.

Looking Ahead: A Call to Action

As the gala drew to a close, George emphasized the importance of sustaining the momentum generated by the event. “As long as veterans find themselves homeless or at risk of homelessness, we will continue to help them as we have for the past 16 years,” he stated. However, he also stressed the need for a proactive approach, one that addresses the root causes of veteran homelessness before they escalate to the point of crisis.

To achieve this, NVHS is focused on building a coalition of concerned individuals and organizations who believe that veteran homelessness is unacceptable. George Taylor Jr. called for continued education and advocacy, highlighting initiatives such as veteran education scholarships and information tutorials on the NVHS website as crucial steps in preventing homelessness among veterans.

In closing remarks, George invoked a simple yet powerful litmus test inspired by his father: “What did you do for a veteran yesterday? What did you do for a veteran today? And what do you plan to do for a veteran tomorrow?” This challenge was posed to everyone in attendance, urging them to consider their role in the ongoing fight against veteran homelessness.

The 9th Annual Rescuing Veterans Lost in America Gala celebrated past achievements and rallied attendees for continued action. As the night ended and attendees returned to their homes, the mission was clear: to ensure that no veteran in Brevard County, or anywhere else, faces the prospect of homelessness alone.

Thank You to All Who Made This Night Possible

NVHS extends its deepest thanks to everyone who attended the gala, including the veterans, community leaders, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters. Your presence and contributions are vital to our mission, and together, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

As George Taylor Jr. eloquently put it, “If our community gets this right, should a veteran find themselves homeless or at risk of homelessness, their duration in that situation will be short-lived.” With your help, we are one step closer to making that vision a reality.

Join us in realizing our vision—volunteer your time or donate to ensure that every veteran has a place to call home.