December 7, 1941

“A date which will live in infamy.”

Click below to watch "Pearl Harbor: Then & Now"

4:34 in length

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"Merry Christmas, My Friend"

'Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone, in a one-bedroom house made of plaster and stone. I had come down the chimney, with presents to give and to see just who in this home did live.


As I looked all about, a strange sight I did see, no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree. No stocking by the fire, just boots filled with sand. On the wall hung pictures of a far distant land. With medals and badges, awards of all kinds, a sobering thought soon came to my mind. For this house was different, so dark and dreary, the home of a soldier, now I could see clearly.


The solider lay sleeping, silent, and alone curled up on the floor in this one-bedroom home. The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder not how I pictured a United States soldier. Was this the hero of whom I’d just read? Curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed?


I realized the families that I saw this night, owed their lives to these soldiers who were willing to fight. Soon around the world, the children would play, and grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas Day. They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year, because of the soldiers, like the one lying here.


I couldn’t help wonder how many lay alone, on a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home. The very thought brought a tear to my eye. I dropped to my knees and I started to cry.


The solider awakened and I heard a rough voice, “Santa, don’t cry, this life is my choice. I fight for freedom, I don’t ask for more, My life is my God, my country, my Corps.”


The solider rolled over and drifted off to sleep, I couldn’t control it, I continued to weep. I watched him for hours, so silent and still. I noticed he shivered from the cold night’s chill.


I didn’t want to leave him so quiet in the night, this guardian of honor so willing to fight. The soldier rolled over, and whispered with a voice clean and pure, “Carry on, Santa, it’s Christmas Day, all is secure.”


One look at my watch and I knew he was right, Merry Christmas my friend, and to all a goodnight.



Written By Marine Lance Corporal James M. Schmidt

This Is Why We Do What We Do

Stairway to Heaven

79-year-old Vietnam Army Veteran in the greater Denver-area lost total vision in both eyes two years ago. While it’s amazing how much he has progressed in getting around his 2-story house and his shop in the garage where he spends most of his time. He has not been able to use the outdoor steps from the driveway up to the front entrance of his home until now.


Qualified Listeners was made aware of this need after a local organization came to assess the situation months ago. But unfortunately provided nothing but lip service and empty promises. Upon learning of this we immediately did our own assessment, purchased the materials, and provided the labor to complete the project within two weeks.


The handrails were not elaborate but very sturdy, set into concrete with each post the exact distance from the next. Welded hash marks were added to the handrail so the Veteran will know what step he’s on and the distance to the next step. 


The photos below show the incredible safety upgrade allowing the Veteran to master his steps after two years.



“Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible, and achieves the impossible.”

- Helen Keller

Would you consider end of year giving?

December 5th is Colorado Gives Day

We Help Veterans & Families Find More Peace in Their Life


Since 2017, Qualified Listeners has helped more than 3,000 Veterans and families throughout Colorado and nationwide by lessening their stress and providing hope. Everyone has a story; everyone has a need. We have brought families together, we have improved their physical and mental wellbeing, we have given them confidence and self-reliance, we have saved lives.


To help us continue our mission of serving the Veteran Community, please consider making a tax-deductible donation. Some of you may discover you need to make a donation to help your tax situation. We are a registered 501C3. We are happy to accept financial gifts of any size. Donate | Qualified Listeners 


On behalf of the Veterans we serve, thank you for your support!

Click to Donate to Qualified Listeners

Volunteer Opportunities

We need drivers to take Veterans and family members to medical appointments and other necessary trips. Your availability, mileage reimbursed. We also need help with picking up and delivering donated furniture and household items to Veterans in northern Colorado on an as-needed basis. Click here to learn more about our volunteer program.


“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in service to others.”

- Mahatma Gandhi


Mobility Devices at Ault VFW

VFW Post 4334 in Ault, Colorado has an abundance of donated mobility devices, like-new C-PAP machines, and other usable medical equipment. To view their inventory and for more information please visit Medical Equipment (aultvfw.org) or call 970-834-1212.

Colorado Vet Connect Sponsors 2023

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What exactly does Qualified Listeners do?


  • We listen
  • Provide transportation to medical appointments
  • Help with mobility equipment
  • Offer vetted resources for Veterans
  • Help Veterans & families find more peace in their lives


Monetary Donations:

We are always grateful for monetary donations, which allow us to continue serving Veterans and families. If you can contribute whatever amount you feel comfortable with, please click here. It’s not about donating; it’s about making a difference. We’re a 501(C)3 non-profit organization. All donations are tax-deductible under our EIN 81-5381427.


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