Veteran Story

For Kenneth Miller, being a salon owner once meant independence and pride. “Being a salon owner meant stability and freedom. You are the brand, and you have to carry that with pride,” he says.

But when his long-term relationship ended, Kenneth lost both his business and his stability. “Nobody prepares you for divorce. The emotional trauma and the loss of friends were devastating. I lost my mother and that hurt, and divorce was like that. Even if you are in agreement, you are still experiencing loss.”

Kenneth eventually found himself living on the streets for nearly two years. “It never occurred to me that I am a Veteran, I don’t need to be living on the streets stealing food. It never occurred to me to get hooked up to benefits.”

With support from Village for Vets, Kenneth found stability and the encouragement to move forward. “Village for Vets was instrumental. Gloria got me housed in West Hollywood, which I love. Stephanie prepared me for four interviews, got me transportation, clothes to interview in, and stuck with me the whole way.”

At age 62, Kenneth is now preparing to start training with LA Metro as a painter through the Room to Work program. “I let them know that I am a Veteran and a soldier and I am going to do my best. I could not have done it without Village for Vets.”

Kenneth’s gratitude is heartfelt. “Stephanie and Gloria never judged me for my past, only helped me where I was. What a difference to be on the receiving end of philanthropic goodness. I cannot thank you enough.”

Your support makes stories like Kenneth’s possible. Donate today to help more Veterans find stability, dignity, and a brighter future.