Indy Warrior Partnership (IWP)’s goal focuses on connecting with and building a local community of veterans in Central Indiana. We do this through many different outlets, including getting out into the local community and finding veterans who would not otherwise self-identify as needing help. This was the case for Cameron Dobbs*, a Korean War-era veteran who reached out for assistance after learning about IWP from a presentation at his long-term care facility.
Cameron first heard about IWP after Program Lead Matt Hall delivered a presentation at his long-term care facility. Cameron is 94 years old and served in the Army during the Korean War (’51-’53). After hearing Matt’s compelling demonstration of what IWP does to uplift veterans in the community, Cameron decided to reach out to see if he could receive support. Cameron told IWP Community Coordinator Abby Pequignot about his life and time in the service. He also told her he only had a 10% disability rating but hadn’t re-filed in several years.
Abby was able to get in contact with an Indianapolis City VSO to help Cameron. The VSO graciously agreed to visit Cameron at his facility, so he did not have to worry about transportation. The VSO is currently in the filing process for the disability increase, which we hope to be wrapped up soon. IWP will maintain contact with the VSO and Cameron, to ensure he continues to get the resources and support he needs. If it wasn’t for Matt’s presentation, however, Cameron may not have even been aware this support was available to him. Instances like this show how important community integration and outreach is to empower veterans in the Indy community.
*Name has been changed in this story to protect the individual's identity.
Indy is stronger when our veterans are stronger. Connect with IWP to learn more about how you can give back to the Indy veteran community by visiting our website and completing an online form: www.indywarriorpartnership.org