From Isolation to Independence: A Veteran’s Story

For this client, life on the street wasn’t how things were supposed to turn out. After serving for many years in the Army, working for decades and saving money, it wasn’t enough. He lost his job 15 years ago, then tried everything he could to get back on his feet. But each attempt fell short. Eventually, he gave up.

“Please call me Gordon. I’m in my mid seventies and was unhoused for over 10 years.”

“I was always careful with my money,” Gordon says. “But ‘no income’ meant it would only last for so long. I started to isolate myself. I just didn’t want to be around anyone.”

Then in 2021, everything began to change.

It was United Effort volunteers who took time to listen to me, then persisted to help me get a HUD-VASH housing voucher. With their help and support, and working with the VA, I finally moved into my apartment in November 2021. 

My path to becoming unhoused began when I lost my job 15 years ago. I tried and tried to get back on my feet, but got very frustrated; I finally just gave up. I was extremely good with my money, but without an income, it didn't last forever. I self-isolated, just didn’t want to be around people anymore. 

Early in the pandemic, Gordon found Hope’s Corner, where free meals, showers and laundry were available. “While waiting in line, volunteers from The United Effort Organization asked us if we needed other help.” 

“I didn’t say anything at first,” Gordon recalls. “After so many years alone, I didn’t trust people. But after a few weeks, I decided to talk to them. Wei, a volunteer, asked me a critical question that other service providers hadn’t asked: _Are you a veteran –_That’s when everything opened up.”

Persistence Not Just Paperwork From that moment on, United Effort volunteers began working with Gordon to secure a HUD-VASH voucher—a program that offers housing support and case management for veterans experiencing homelessness. 

But that was just the beginning.

Volunteers helped him apply for Medi-Cal to cover his Medicare Part B premium—saving him $170 a month. They also connected him to the Veterans Service Office (VSO), where he began the process of applying for a pension. Volunteers also helped him navigate the complex web of public benefits with patience, clarity, and care.

“They didn’t just fill out forms,” Gordon says. “They asked the right questions to uncover what other services I might be eligible for. They really listened. They gave me moral support when I didn’t even know I needed it.”

In partnership with the VA, Gordon moved into his own apartment in November 2021.

Another Turning Point—Lunch and Connection One of the most powerful moments came not from paperwork—but from a simple invitation.

“One day, Wei invited me to lunch. I didn’t want to go—I felt awkward. But I went. And during that meal, I realized how much I had lost… even my confidence in talking to people. That meal was the first one in decades that I hadn’t eaten alone. It was strange—and it was healing.”

A Future With Purpose It took a while to adjust to life in permanent housing. It hasn’t always been easy—Gordon still feels self-conscious about his past and struggles with social situations—but he’s proud of how far he’s come.

“I made good use of The United Effort’s Find Affordable Housing tool and I recommend it to others. It’s a gem,” he smiles.

“I was proud to give up my VTA UPLIFT pass so that the United Effort could provide that quota to someone less fortunate, since there’s a limited number of passes available from VTA” he says. “I don’t need it as much anymore. I’ve got a place to live. I’m retired. I’m okay.”

Why We Don’t Give Up “We’re so proud of Gordon,” says Wei Qun E, co-founder, volunteer client manager and CEO of The United Effort. “He’s incredibly smart, organized, and always responsive. He was a pleasure to work with, and we’re thrilled he now has a safe, peaceful place to enjoy retirement.”

Gordon’s story is a testament to what’s possible when compassion meets persistence—and when no one gives up, even when it’s hard.

“I hope sharing my story helps someone else find their way home.”