Ep. 65 Celebrating 20 Years and 400 Homes: CEO of Homes For Our Troops Tom Landwermeyer

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery.

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Brigadier General, USA Retired, Tom Landwermeyer, the President and CEO of Homes For Our Troops (HFOT). This nonprofit organization has the noble mission of building specially adapted custom homes for the most severely injured post-9/11 veterans, helping them to rebuild their lives. As HFOT celebrates its 20th anniversary and its 400th home milestone, Tom shares insights into the organization's journey and aspirations.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

Ep. 65 – Celebrating 20 Years and 400 Homes: CEO of Homes For Our Troops Tom Landwermeyer

Homes For Our Troops has been fulfilling its mission since 2004. HFOT doesn’t merely provide houses—each home is specially adapted to meet the individual needs of veterans, offering them greater independence. These homes are donated, mortgage-free, to veterans, providing a stable foundation for them to rebuild their lives.

Veteran-Centric Approach and Impact

One of the unique aspects of HFOT is its veteran-centric approach. Veterans are given the choice of where they want to live, allowing them to choose communities where they can thrive. Since starting to build, HFOT has created an incredible impact across 45 states, working on its next 65 projects. The organization diligently tracks outcomes, noting that post-move-in, veterans’ employment rates double, spousal employment rates quadruple, and family stress levels decrease significantly.

Community and Donor Engagement

Engaging the community is essential for the ongoing success of HFOT. The organization benefits from substantial individual donations, community fundraisers, and corporate partnerships. As Tom notes, about 90 cents of every dollar goes directly into the program, ensuring that donations make a significant impact. Corporate partners provide essential support, from furnishing homes to organizing special fundraising events.

Adapting to Veterans' Needs

HFOT homes feature numerous adaptations to accommodate veterans with severe injuries. Notable adaptations include wider doorways and hallways, roll-under sinks, and pull-down shelving units, among others. The organization is committed to continuously improving these features based on veteran feedback, ensuring the homes adapt to the evolving needs of the community it serves.

How You Can Help

Awareness and involvement are crucial for HFOT’s continued success. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, every contribution helps. HFOT seeks to maintain low overhead costs, channeling most resources directly into its mission. With a strong network of supporters and a firm commitment to its values—commitment, accountability, respect, excellence, and service—HFOT aims to expand its reach and effectiveness even further.

For more information on how you can support or get involved with Homes For Our Troops, visit their website at hfotusa.org. Let’s continue to build a future where those who have sacrificed the most can live in comfort and dignity.

Military Minute

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

● Last episode’s Military Minute: What is the range from low to high of possible credit scores?

● Answer: 300-850

● This week’s Military Minute question: What is the name of the structure that was built in the Pennsylvania field to commemorate the passengers on Flight 93?

● Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

● Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

● After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

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