The Home of Record Project, a nonprofit founded by veteran Gary Schell, is providing vital support to former service members facing homelessness or housing instability in Mesa, Arizona. The organization offers a range of services, including emergency financial assistance, eviction prevention, and both transitional and permanent supportive housing.
Support for Veterans in Need
Founded by Schell, a Marine Corps veteran and Arizona State University graduate, the project emerged from his personal battle with cancer, which inspired him to help others in crisis. The organization recently acquired a campus in Mesa with six buildings that are currently undergoing renovations aimed at improving living spaces and expanding capacity to accommodate more veterans.
Among those benefiting from the Home of Record Project is Army veteran Karen Winter, who faced significant financial hardships after the death of her husband. With limited income and rising living costs, Winter felt overwhelmed until she found assistance through the nonprofit. “I was drowning financially,” she said, sharing how the organization offered her a lifeline.
Individualized Assistance
The Home of Record Project tailors its support to meet the unique needs of each veteran. Whether it’s providing a safe place to live, assistance with job placement, or access to healthcare, the organization aims to empower veterans on their path to stability. Schell believes understanding each individual’s circumstances is crucial for effective support.
For Winter, finding affordable housing where she could live with her dog was essential. Others may require different forms of assistance, such as job training or navigating benefits.
Building Community and Connection
Joe Warhol, the project’s deputy director and Marine Corps veteran, emphasizes the importance of recognizing housing insecurity, which can often remain hidden. He remarked that many veterans may appear stable but are struggling to meet their monthly expenses. The organization’s approach involves reviewing each case individually and providing resources that cater to immediate and long-term needs.
Through its Veterans Pathway Housing Program, the Home of Record Project offers transitional housing for six months, during which veterans set personal goals and receive support. Participants pay a nominal rent, and successful completion of the program may lead to financial assistance for future housing needs.
A Nurturing Environment
The atmosphere at the Mesa campus is designed to foster community and mutual support among residents. Property manager Jeremiah Nichols, a Navy veteran, describes the campus as “a community within a community.” The renovations include plans for community partners to provide classes and additional resources to veterans.
Residents like Nathan Wilson, an Army veteran and kitchen manager, find purpose and connection through their roles. Wilson, who enjoys cooking for fellow residents, has found a sense of belonging that he previously missed.
A Sense of Belonging
For many residents, the Home of Record Project has become a vital support system. Winter speaks fondly of the camaraderie among residents, noting that they respect each other’s privacy while forming bonds.
With current renovations and a commitment to expanding its capacity, the Home of Record Project continues to adapt and grow, ensuring that more veterans can find a safe place to live and a supportive community to call home.
Source: Arizona State University
