“We Built the Village”: More Than 100 Veterans Have New Homes at The Post in Prescott

The ceremony began from a place of unity: Veterans, elected officials, people of different political beliefs all under one tent. It could’ve been an average press conference. Instead, a technical glitch invoked all attendees to join in the singing of the National Anthem. The ceremony had barely begun, and already, camaraderie was at the forefront of the event.

It was a fitting way to kick off The Post at Fort Whipple’s grand opening on October 2, celebrating 103 new apartment homes for senior, homeless, and at-risk Veterans. Everyone who contributed to this project in Prescott, Arizona believes in the mission: Veterans should have first-class, affordable housing.

“As the daughter, granddaughter, and daughter-in-law of Veterans, I’ve seen firsthand the sacrifice and service of our Veterans. My family came to Arizona because my grandpa was treated at the hospital here following his Army service in World War II. To be here for such a full-circle moment really is an honor and a privilege”

Gov. Katie Hobbs, Arizona Governer

Throughout the ceremony, Veterans took playful jabs at their fellow Vets from other branches, to lots of laughter.

Gorman & Company first partnered with U.S.VETS in 2019 to create The Post at Fort Whipple. The complex includes six Officers’ Quarters first built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Those buildings have now been adapted into 23 units, and the new build, The Post, provides 80 1-bedroom homes.

The community is available for senior Veterans who are or at risk to experiencing homelessness. Residents pay 30% of their income toward rent. It took one week for the Officers’ Quarters to fill up. Within two months, the new building was fully leased, too.

Joe’s Story

Joe Franzen is a US Army Veteran, now living in one of the Officers’ Quarters units with his wife. After losing their son in 2020, their world turned upside down. They became homeless and were living on Mingus Mountain.

“We have a beautiful home now … my wife and I, we have a front porch. We can look at the beautiful sunsets, the sunrise. It’s just incredible,” Franzen said during the press conference. “We thank everybody that was involved in this project, because we finally have family.”

U.S.VETS provides supportive services to the Veterans who live at The Post. That includes case management, career development support, counseling, and help coordinating their healthcare.

“We built the village. Everyone helps each other. We have so many services from the campus to everything, transportation, and finally we have friends, and we can say we have a home in the community that’s safe.”

Joe Franzen, US Army Veteran

Mr. Franzen beamed with pride talking about having their beloved grandchildren over, and how much they love his new home.

Veterans’ Struggles

Many Veterans face a higher risk of becoming unhoused. About 20% of men experiencing homelessness are Veterans, according to data from the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans. They can face lingering effects of mental health issues like PTSD, and substance use disorders. Officials estimate there are about 2,000 homeless Veterans across Arizona.

“In 2017, Veterans comprised about 30% of those experiencing homelessness in the Prescott region,” said Carole Benedict, U.S.VETS National Director of Executive Leadership. “We’re down to 11% now … we’ve made good progress.”

Access to Services

The Fort Whipple campus is home to the Bob Stump Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, the main hub for VA care in Northern Arizona. For the new residents of The Post at Fort Whipple, they never have to worry about transportation to and from their healthcare appointments.

U.S.VETS provides wraparound case management services. They can help manage those healthcare appointments and connect residents with new providers.

One in three Veterans faces symptoms of depression. An estimated 26% of Veterans who receive care from the VA are dealing with PTSD. For Veterans who have experienced homelessness, that can add another layer of trauma. U.S.VETS specializes in mental health and wellness services.

On top of that, U.S.VETS provides workforce development training and counseling. After leaving military service, many Veterans don’t know how to navigate the job market. It can be tough for them to explain how their experiences on active duty translate into civilian skills. U.S.VETS has developed strong bonds with companies that commit to hiring former service members, helping them find civilian work that feels right.

A new home, a path forward with their physical and mental health, and a new career can change a Veteran’s life.

Photos From The Post at Fort Whipple’s grand opening