Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Wilson.
Hi Robert, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
After being in the military for 27 years, my commitment to my country was (at least on paper) over. However, my commitment to my community was not. I founded Kentucky Veterans Brigade in Bowling Green, Kentucky, with a high school friend. We launched the KVB unofficially in 2017 & officially in 2018; we have been a 501 C3 since then. We serve an average of 60 to 70 homeless or veterans in need each day with either food, clothing, or monetary assistance. The KVB operates with many community partners, including other veteran organizations, the Veterans Administration, the local Chamber of Commerce, the American Legion Post 23, The Good Deeds Club, and many other entities that serve the homeless & the veteran demographic.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road; it is hard to understand why the local government would not want an entity to provide free food, clothing, housing, transportation, and other assistance to those in need. However, those hurdles have been overcome over the last several years. Our donors are staunch and dedicated to our cause, from individuals to many businesses in the area.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
KVB operates the Veterans Alliance Center, an 8500 sqft building full of food & clothing, dedicated to the veterans & their families as well as the homeless. We are mostly known for our diverse areas of assistance, such as food, clothing, transportation, housing, medical equipment, utility assistance, & financial assistance with minimal red tape. And more importantly, of the 15 to 25 personnel you may meet daily, 100% are volunteers.
Do you have any advice for those just starting?
Most importantly, make sure your heart is in the right place by starting a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing services requesting help and assistance. Needing money is a complicated and long-term task none of this will happen overnight, none of this will be easy, and none of this will be given to you for free, but it all will be worth it if you believe in yourself and your mission.
Contact Info:
- Website: Kyveteransbrigade.org
- Facebook: Kentucky Veterans Brigade 501 C 3
