Veterans Empowerment Organization of Georgia, Inc. - VEO

06/18/2026

Day 3: Miles, Mission, and a Moment of Grace

Michael’s reflection captures the heart of this ride: gratitude, compassion, and the importance of supporting veterans when they need it most.

Michael shared: “I went somewhere between 90 and 100 miles today. My computer was not calculating the whole time. I rode from Troy, NY, down to New Paltz, NY. It was a mixture of rural delight and city mayhem, and more the former, fortunately!

I was running a little low on water and I saw a couple out front eating at a kitchen table. They must’ve been about 60 years old. I apologized for interrupting them, and asked if I could have some water, as I was running low.

They were really kind and filled my bottles. It was wonderful tasting well water. I explained my mission, and they told me what they were going through: the woman’s mother was inside at death’s door. She had her final blessing and was on home hospice. Apparently she was going to die any moment. It made me thankful for the support of families we have, and remind me of the important mission of giving our veterans support when they are need.

Peace and love!”

Please support Michael’s ride and help provide veterans with the care, stability, and community they deserve.

Donate here: https://giving.gofundme.com/campaign/810084/donate

06/17/2026

DAY 3: The Miles Are Real. The Mission Is Bigger.

Michael knocked out 112 miles yesterday as he continues his ride across New York in support of VEO.

Trail conditions, road climbs, and long days in the saddle are no small thing, but neither is the need facing veterans who deserve stability, support, and a path forward.

Every mile matters. Every veteran matters.

Fuel the mission - donate here: https://lnkd.in/eXnq5SDs

06/17/2026

DAY 2 UPDATE!!

Huge thanks to everyone for their support!

No rain, pretty favorable winds, and I was able to make up some ground since the previous day’s ride came up a little short.

Either way, riding for this cause makes every mile feel more meaningful. Grateful for the encouragement and the continued support! Onward to DAY 3!

DONATE HERE: https://lnkd.in/eXnq5SDs

06/15/2026

TODAY IS DAY 1!

They say if you don't like the weather in New York, just wait five minutes. Well, today the weather decided to test my resolve early!

We rolled out with some dodgy skies, and a few hours in, the skies absolutely opened up. Navigating the gravel trails in a downpour made for some tricky riding. Because of the conditions, I decided to play it safe and cut the day just a little bit short... and by "short," I mean I still clocked 104 miles!

That leaves me with a bit of catching up to do, so tomorrow is going to be a massive day in the saddle.

Today's Highlights:

The Photo: Kicking things off at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park—the largest inland naval park in the US!

The Video: A glimpse of the beautiful, peaceful Erie Canal trail before the deluge started. Every mile of this 650-mile trek across NY is to raise funds for a cause that means the world to me. The legs are tired, the gear is drying out, but the motivation is higher than ever.

Thank you all so much for tracking my progress, sending encouraging messages, and donating. Let's see what Day 2 brings!

DONATE HERE: https://giving.gofundme.com/campaign/810084/donate

06/11/2026

Esteemed Colleagues, and friends,

Next Sunday I’ll embark on a 650 mile, 6-day mission across New York State for several reasons, but more importantly, to raise funds for VEO and honor my recently deceased ex-military father.

There are thousands of unhoused and near- homeless Georgia military veterans, and VEO helps our heroes get back on their feet and live productive lives through support services for housing, mental health, and vocational training. Ken Wood, and Brad Meyer currently serve on the VEO Board of Directors. Ken is the is current Board Chair of this great organization.

My father lived his final years in my sister’s loving and supportive home, and VEO works to give veterans the same dignity. Please consider donating to the cause. The donations given via this link go directly to the organization.
https://lnkd.in/eXnq5SDs

With the love of a son,
Roach

06/09/2026

This PTSD Awareness Month, we have an opportunity to lead with greater awareness, compassion, and understanding. Not all wounds are visible, and too many individuals carry their struggles in silence. By creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and empowered to seek help, we strengthen not only individuals but our communities and workplaces. Healing is possible, and no one should have to navigate the journey alone.

Thank you to our partners at Acuity and the leadership of Tara Coley in supporting the Veterans at VEO.

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06/04/2026

06/03/2026

Happy National Bicycle Day! 🚴‍♂️

Today we celebrate the VEO Cycling Team, proudly led by our Board Chair Kenneth Wood, Principal | CEO of PEC+ (Planners & Engineering Collaborative+).

The team rides with purpose, helping advance VEO’s mission to empower veterans across Atlanta through housing, mental health support, workforce development, and renewed opportunity.

Every mile moves the mission forward.

Support our heroes.
Visit: www.veohero.org

04/27/2026

What an incredible day at the Georgia Pest Control Association PestVets Clay Shoot, and an even more powerful moment as PestVets presented a generous donation to Veterans Empowerment Organization.

Because of this support—and everyone who showed up, we’re able to continue empowering veterans with housing, employment, and the resources they need to rebuild their lives.

Thank you to our shooters and the entire PestVets community for making this event such a success. Arrow Exterminators Lavender Pest Control Peachtree Pest Control Lookout Pest Control Syngenta Pest

Together, we’re creating real pathways forward for those who served our country.

Swipe to see highlights—including the check presentation moment!

04/22/2026

Real impact starts with people who lead with purpose.

We are honored to spotlight Iris Ivana Grant, a leader whose work is rooted in advancing communities and creating lasting change. With nearly two decades of experience in the nonprofit and social impact space, Iris has dedicated her career to helping organizations grow in ways that are sustainable, ethical, and deeply mission-driven.

Her approach is not just about strategy. It is about building trust, strengthening communities, and ensuring that support reaches the people who need it most.

Leaders like Iris help elevate what meaningful, long-term support for veterans truly looks like.