E4V Blog

Chad served in the Army, stationed in Afghanistan, as an infantryman. Returning stateside, he faced several unique challenges with reintegration and experienced homelessness for about a year. He has worked incredibly hard to get to a place of stability, even opening his own business, using his passion for graphic design to support veterans. 

The toll of the pandemic has weighed heavily on him as he was unable to go to a gym.
This is something that is extremely important to his physical and emotional health and wellbeing. He was in need of equipment that would allow him to continue to make physical fitness a priority in his life.

His Wingman Volunteer, Emily engaged her personal network in creative ways to accomplish this mission. She held a Facebook fundraiser and even sold flowers at her college campus to raise funds for Chad’s home gym. Through her dedication, she was able to raise several hundred dollars towards the purchase of martial arts equipment. Now Chad is able to exercise from the comfort and safety of his home. Chad said, “I am so thankful for your organization and all you’ve done for me and other veterans.” We are thankful for you, Chad! Thank you for the opportunity to allow us to work with you.

We are grateful for our Wingman Volunteers, like Emily. Their willingness to partner with us to support combat veterans in need is inspiring.

Become a wingman by visiting our website and clicking "Volunteers" and "Be a Wingman."

Meet the Founder and Board President of Everyone for Veterans, Dr. Theresa Cheng. 

What’s the best advice you were ever given?
My mother always pointed out the importance of being happy no matter how difficult things are. 

What’s your favorite movie or show and why?
I like a lot of movies and shows, but Forrest Gump is a very memorable one. The character, Lieutenant Dan introduced me to the realistic aspect of veteran life that is all around us.  
 
What’s your favorite meal?
My favorite meal is a hawker noodle dish from Malaysia.  
 
What’s your favorite vacation destination and why?
There are so many great vacation destinations, however, one of my favorites is in Gandoca, Costa Rica, a beach in a low income area. We get to work with preserving turtle eggs by patrolling the beaches at night and moving the eggs laid to safe areas. It was hard work but fantastic to learn about and contribute to how the community turned the economy of consuming turtle eggs to preserving them.
 

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