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In this episode of Behind The Home Build Podcast, we have a discussing with Luis Menendez, Tunnel to Towers' Director of Construction Homeless Veterans Program (HVP), and explore the inspiring story of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a transformative organization founded to honor the heroic actions of firefighter Stephen Siller, who lost his life saving others on September 11, 2001. We delve into the foundation’s mission to address a pressing issue affecting over 30,000 homeless veterans across the United States.

The Homeless Veterans Program, launched in 2022, is dedicated to eradicating veteran homelessness through innovative solutions. The program focuses on repurposing underutilized properties or constructing "organic villages" of smart micro-homes and comfort homes designed to offer dignity and modern amenities. The philosophy is clear: if these homes wouldn’t meet our own standards of living, they won’t be offered to our veterans.

The Denver project, located near I-25 and Colorado Boulevard, exemplifies this mission. By converting a purchased hotel into 100-120 permanent housing units, Tunnel to Towers creates a space where veterans can rebuild their lives. Each unit includes a kitchen, and veterans pay no more than 30% of their income as rent. The facility will feature fitness centers, day rooms, and support services like substance abuse counseling, mental health support, and job interview training. Veterans can find camaraderie, regain stability, and reintegrate into society with the help of a robust network of resources.

Additionally, the foundation’s National Case Management Unit provides support to veterans across the U.S. and even Guam, offering financial, legal, and VA assistance while extending help to their families. By partnering with local communities, Tunnel to Towers enhances the success of their projects. In Denver, these partnerships include workforce training, resume building, interview preparation, and providing professional attire to help veterans secure meaningful employment.

The construction industry plays a pivotal role, with opportunities for veterans to receive training, retraining, or develop new career skills in collaboration with contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers. The Denver project’s construction begins in Spring 2025, with a one-year timeline to completion. Similar initiatives are underway across the nation in cities like Buffalo, Memphis, Long Island, and regions in Florida, California, and the Carolinas.

This episode also highlights the philanthropic spirit of the American people, whose generosity makes these programs possible. Denver’s community is called upon to contribute—from contractors and volunteers to property managers and local businesses. Together, we can increase the success rate of eradicating veteran homelessness.

For more information on how to get involved, partner, or donate, visit T2T.org. Join us in making a tangible difference in the lives of our nation’s heroes.