James Nov-Dec 2023 web - Flipbook - Page 18
have significant needs. She says,
“they come and stay in our housing
and, if they have a family, the family
comes with them.”
It’s notable that SHARE clients
receive their treatment at no cost
to them; the Center sustains the
programs through the generosity of
individuals, families, corporations
and private foundations.
There is also a great group called
the Shepherd’s Men whose primary
goal is to raise funds for SHARE. Travis Ellis is the passionate co-founder of the group, and I first met him
through the Hospitality Business
Network Foundation. The Shepherd’s
Men host fundraisers to subsidize
SHARE’s operating budget.
“It is our desire to shine light
on the condition of those struggling
in our veteran community— many
of whom suffer in silence, isolating
themselves from family, friends and
the community,” Ellis says. “We will
not rest until the number of lives
lost every day to suicide goes from
A wounded warrior golfer participating in the annual Turkey Trot Veterans Invitation Golf
Tournament in Marietta. Proceeds benefit the Shepherd Center SHARE program and Navy
Safe Harbor Foundation.
22 to 0. Our veterans deserve to live
meaningful, gratifying lives with
their families after their courageous
service to our country.”
The Shepherd Center, by the
way, has already treated over 800
veterans and first responders, helping them renew their health, purpose, relationships and quality of life.
It is gratifying to see there is an
expansion of care occurring in Geor-
gia and nationwide to help prevent
suicides for up to 9 million veterans
who are not currently enrolled in VA.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
While on the topic of veteran suicide prevention, it must be
emphasized that this is the federal
Veterans Affairs Department’s top
clinical priority. This effort is a key
part of its 10-year National Strategy
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