Feed the Fisher House.8

I think the best part, or at least one of the best parts, of Feeding Families of Veterans (FFOV) is the learning process. The best part of FFOV is obviously the money we're able to raise for the families of Veterans who stay at the VA Puget Sound Fisher House, but for me, the lessons learned along the way are so beneficial. 
The first lesson learned is FFOV is bigger than John Millan. The campaign and project is nothing and a failure without the support, ideas, suggestions and criticism of others. Nobel Prize winner, George Bernard Shaw, once said "Those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything." Isn't this the truth? Throughout this journey, so many people have been willing to share with me their experiences; successes and failures. In the beginning I was too focused on the idea, or better yet, the novelty of the idea,to appreciate other's feedback. I took it as criticism rather than constructive feedback. Now that the excitement of what we're doing has settled, I look to others for ideas, direction and most of all, constructive criticism. 
The second lesson learned is that there truly is a social disadvantage for disabled Veterans. I've noticed that the benefits provided to Veterans is limited to what the VA can provide. I'm not minimizing what they provide, after all, if you know me you know I have very few negative things to say about the level of care I've received through the VA health care system. The VA is also paying for my education and i could not be more grateful for this benefit. What I'm talking about are the number of different agencies who support Veterans. Too many of them are solely dependent upon public donations. I'm not suggesting this is a bad thing, I'm only suggesting that being dependent on the public for healthcare, caregiving, transportation, food or a host of other potential requirements of life for a disabled Veteran seem to contradict what many well-meaning politicians continue to say. I continually hear that Veterans need to be taken care of ... So why are we so dependent upon not for profit charities? (I know someone is going to read this as if I'm asking for a free handout for Veterans, I'm not and that is not my point. My point is as time passes and as we move past this era of conflict, these NPOs so many Veterans depend on will begin to dry up; then what?)
The last lesson learned is the willingness of strangers to help when called upon. For a guy who saw the world through a half empty glass, I was shocked to find out that so many non-military people want to help out. Actually, to my surprise (or disappointment) I've had little success attracting service members to help; whether that be through a donation or other forms of assistance. I've had time to think about this and I think I understand. I rarely thought about helping Veterans who were no longer serving, or no longer able to serve. There is a different focus for service members and it starts with their most present situation. So, I get it. 
This week also brought with it a new sponsor. Harms Pacific Transport out of Pasco, WA has offered to support us during this campaign. This is a major step because it takes us onto the east side of the state. I'm thrilled to call them a partner and look forward to working with them. 
FFOV is hosting a dinner for the guests at the VA Puget Sound Fisher House on the 17th of December. I'm working hard to make sure that the guests and their Veterans are provided a holiday type meal. This mission is so important to me. I've seen the impact the VA Puget Sound Fisher House has on families of Veterans. Its a small gift to the families with the hopes it will ease the stress of their stay. 
See ya.