Chesty (a Catahoula and Bulldog mix) and therapy dog for a local veteran. He is loyal, protective and a highly intelligent family member. Strangers should never pet a service animal unless invited to do so. Champions of Youth Ambitions collects pet supplies for its Vets with Pets project and to help local animal shelters. To donate prior to Veteran’s Day, call 505.695.9139 or email cya.org@att.net. Courtesy photo
By BERNADETTE LAURITZEN
Executive Ditrector
Champions of Youth Ambitions
Quality of life means different things to different people throughout their lives. One program working with several of the most important groups of people in and around our state is called, Healing America’s Heroes (HAH).
Eddie Crain’s small non-profit does great work by soliciting donations, writing grants and providing services to make life better for veterans and front-line service staff. Their services have included a couples retreat and first responder programs for both men and women and those who fight fires and provide high water rescue services.
One grant received by HAH is the Quality-of-Life Grant awarded by the New Mexico Governor’s Commission on Disability. HAH has received three of these grants to conduct veteran and first responder opportunities for the past three years.
Healing America’s Heroes is always in need of donations, both large and small. Funds are used for a variety of needs such as paying gas and electric bills, feeding horses and conducting sessions for veterans and first responders. Firefighting and high-water rescue sessions are held during fire season to give responders a chance to debrief, enjoy a meal from Chef Bernie and spend time with others who understand the mission.
While for now participants never pay for these sessions, the program could use help to provide transportation for HAH staff, veterans and first responders arriving at airports in New Mexico and El Paso to travel to Fort Stanton.
Information about all programs is available on the Healing America’s Heroes website at https://www.healingamericasheroes.org. This website also has the information and application forms for participating in HAH sessions, or to sign up as a volunteer to assist with a session.
Later this month, HAH will hold a day of camaraderie and support as they honor veterans, first responders and community members affected by recent fires and floods. They will enjoy an authentic chuckwagon lunch in a historic setting.
The community may send cards of thanks to veterans or small donations to support the cause to 250 Black Jack Pershing Road, Fort Stanton, New Mexico 88323 or call 575.756.8557.
September is Suicide Awareness Month and free suicide prevention training is available for local residents and available upon request. If you have a small gathering of friends for a club, organization or meeting feel free to contact us about providing the one-hour training. The training is provided by a Certified Trainer from the QPR Institute. Additional information is available by calling 505.695.9139 or emailing cya.org@att.net.