In 1996, 26-year-old Rhonda Seward enlisted in the United States Army. She sacrificed and served her country for 22 years.
"I wanted to make a difference," Rhonda said.
With years of serving in the military, obtaining her Bachelor's and Master's degrees, and working hard to make smart decisions for her life, Rhonda never thought she would find herself homeless.
Unfortunately, a few years ago she was laid off from her job in Delaware. She came to Indianapolis to live with her friend, but that did not work out for long. Thankfully, she went to the VA for help and she was referred to HVAF.
"It was a rewarding experience for me, because I was devastated - I had never been homeless, or without a job," Rhonda said. "I didn’t know what that looked like or felt like."
She received help from HVAF's case manager Hyacinth and Employment Coordinator Kiara.
“During her time at HVAF, Rhonda was very pleasant, hardworking, and committed to changing her situation," Hyacinth said. "She did not allow anything to stand in her way.”
Kiara said she did not work with Rhonda a lot - which was good, because that meant she was capable and worked hard on her own.
"Working with Rhonda was a very pleasant experience, as Rhonda was very self-sufficient," Kiara said. "She had a clear vision of what she wanted to do, and I knew nothing would hinder her from reaching her goals."
After living in Moreau Apartments - one of HVAF's transitional housing properties - for one year, Rhonda was able to move into her own apartment and obtained a full time career.
Today, Rhonda works full time AND gives back to the community - as she helps fellow veterans who are wanting to do more with their lives. Her volunteer work includes being a Veterans Court mentor, President of the Lincoln Apartments Council, and participating on the Patient Advisory Council at the VA.
"I really do appreciate HVAF. Now I can be the voice for someone who is homeless."
