Tacos, Testimonies & Taking Action

We welcomed a wonderful community of veterans, caregivers, and advocates on Wednesday, July 30th, at the Tipp Center in Tipp City for the latest Muster & Mingle event hosted by Operation Veteran & Caregiver Support.

Representatives from Concerned Veterans for America – Ohio shared their powerful experiences from Vets on the Hill 2025, a day of advocacy in Washington, D.C. Josh reflected that his most memorable moment was speaking face-to-face with officials he helped elect—the culmination of his efforts advocating for veteran-centered policy. Jessica spoke of forging an unlikely connection: meeting a Russian immigrant turned Christian, who had dedicated himself to spreading the Gospel. She highlighted how this meeting underscored the diversity and unity at the heart of American life.
They also kindly provided dinner—walking tacos—a fun and hearty way to fuel great conversation (even if some of our veterans had never had one before!

Insights from Our Director, Valerie
Our Director Valerie took the stage to shed light on a critical issue affecting many local households—CenterPoint Energy’s proposed 25% rate increase.

She shared her personal experience testifying at a recent public hearing in Dayton, voicing concerns on behalf of veterans, caregivers, and fixed-income families who could be disproportionately impacted by this sharp rate hike. Valerie emphasized the importance of public engagement in utility regulation and encouraged others to get involved and make their voices heard.

Her advocacy is a reminder that supporting veterans includes standing up for fair, affordable access to basic utilities. She encouraged those present to attend the public hearings scheduled by the PUCO (Public Utilities Commission of Ohio) on proposed AES rate increases. She also offered to take written testimonies in herself, giving our veterans a chance to share their concerns without needing to be physically present.

Our July 30th Muster & Mingle embodied our mission—bringing together veterans, caregivers, advocates, and community leaders in a spirit of unity, advocacy, and support. From shared meals and conversations to powerful stories of civic action, the evening reminded us all why community matters.

We thank Jessica and Josh, and Concerned Veterans for America – Ohio, for their advocacy and presence. And we appreciate Valerie for carrying our voices to the halls of government and illuminating key challenges facing veterans in Ohio.

We are continuing our government focus next week at our Piqua Muster & Mingle! We will be welcoming a representative from the Miami County Veterans Service office to talk about the valuable work they do for veterans across the county and about their upcoming VetFest event at the Miami County Fairgrounds.

Our next Muster & Mingle on August 27th is one of our most highly anticipated events of the year. Join us as we come together to pack care packages for U.S. troops currently deployed overseas. Last year, with the help of our amazing community, we packed and shipped 60 care packages—each one filled with snacks, hygiene items, handwritten notes, and a whole lot of love. The impact was real, and the gratitude we received from service members reminded us just how much a simple gesture can mean.

Don’t forget to spread the word about needed donations—every item collected helps us reach one more soldier.For more info on where you can find us next and get involved, check out our Upcoming Events page by clicking here!