National Veterans Resource Squad

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The Volunteers of America National Veterans Resource Squad (NVRS) is a group of 32 Volunteers of America employees who are also veterans, or active members of the military, and are trained as VA-recognized and DBSA-certified Peer Support Specialists. They are also ASIST and safeTALK Instructor certified. They are leading Volunteers of America's efforts to reach at-risk veterans through suicide prevention, peer mentoring, and community resource navigation.

As Melvyn Romero, Navy Veteran, Active Army Reserves and former NVRS member says, "I think there is a civilian community that is very passionate about helping the veterans but sometimes you need another veteran's ear in order to feel comfortable and that's what we're doing here.

"Volunteers of America has a very passionate group of men and women here that have served in the military that want to now take that service and serve the veterans that need our help. Our motto in the military is "leave no man behind" and that's what we're doing here."

Meet Some of the Squad

  • Ramon Gonzales

    U.S. Air Force Veteran, Volunteers of America Texas

    "I'm grateful for the opportunity to have been of service to the country and hopeful that I did as much as I could for those around me."

  • Robert Hopper

    U.S. Army Veteran, Volunteers of America Illinois

    "To me, it means that I made a commitment to serve my country that didn't end when my service ended. I'll never forget my training battalion motto: Mission first, people always. That sums up what being a veteran means to me."

  • Bill Jaggers

    U.S. Navy Veteran, Volunteers of America Mid-States

    "I am proud of the Navy I served in for 20 years - both its traditions and core values. Serving has helped me to 'grow up' in many ways and made me (I feel) a link in the chain which has protected the freedoms of our country."

  • Mike Merrill

    U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and Maine Army National Guard, Volunteers of America Northern New England

    "To me, being a veteran means selfless service, loyalty, honor, courage, and commitment to placing the completion of the mission first....ALWAYS being Faithful (Semper Fi) to 'The Cause'...Walking the walk and not just Talking to talk."

  • Heather Morgan

    U.S. Navy Veteran, Volunteers of America Greater Los Angeles

    “When I think of the meaning of what it is to be a Veteran, I think of the quote by John C. Maxwell; “A leader is one that knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Honor, Courage, and Commitment , is the Oath that we took, it never fades from our being. It is instilled in us and we carry it with pride!"

  • Shawn Noles

    U.S. Air Force Veteran, Volunteers of America Florida

    "For me personally, it was an honor to serve our country. I was most proud of the commitment that was given day after day, no questions asked. It also means answering the call when service was needed."