November 2024 - VCR partnered with local organizations to renovate the home of a Spokane Navy veteran suffering from an autoimmune disease. Volunteers tackled critical repairs, improving accessibility and safety inside and outside the house.
“It means a lot to be recognized and helped like this,” said the veteran. “It’s been a rough road, and this makes it feel like I’m not alone.”
September 2024 - VCR joined hundreds of participants in the “March for the Fallen,” a memorial event honoring the lives of post-9/11 veterans who have passed. The hike served as both a tribute and a way to raise awareness of the challenges veterans continue to face after service.
“He’ll always be my son,” said one participant, tearfully honoring her fallen Marine. VCR’s presence, according to organizer Kelly Kiki, “was about remembrance and connection. We walk for all of them.”
March 2024 - When a Vietnam veteran’s yard was left in disarray after utility work, VCR stepped in to restore the property. Volunteers removed large debris piles and returned the space to a condition worthy of the veteran who lives there.
“This isn’t just about a cleanup,” said VCR founder Kelly Kiki. “It’s about showing respect — and standing up when someone’s been left behind.”
September 2023 - In the aftermath of devastating wildfires, Veterans Community Response deployed volunteers to Medical Lake, WA, to help remove dangerous trees and debris from the homes of veterans. The organization’s rapid and compassionate action made it possible for affected veterans to begin recovery safely and with dignity.
“They’ve just been out here all week helping,” said a local veteran whose home was spared but surrounded by charred trees. “We couldn’t have done this without them.”
June 2021 - VCR hosted a healing retreat at Deer Lake for combat veterans transitioning back into civilian life. Through group discussions, trust-building activities, and ceremony, participants shared stories of trauma and resilience.
“This saved my life,” said one combat veteran. “I’ve never been around people who understood me like this. It brought me peace.”
Members of the Veterans Community Response organization are spending some of their days clearing and thinning forest land, helping make it harder for wildfires to take hold and cause severe damage.
