From Conflict to Advocacy
Our founders, Joe and Carol, witnessed firsthand the complex challenges faced by veterans returning from service. Growing up in the era of the Vietnam War, they saw the nation’s conflicted response to returning service members—heroes taught to expect honor and respect but met instead with social shaming and hostility. This environment compounded the trauma many veterans experienced, leading to decades of silence and suffering.
After a personal crisis and a long journey through assessments, therapies, and medications, success was finally found through the support of the Atlanta VA Health Care System. This turnaround, although later in life, was transformative and underscored a vital message: the importance of seeking help early. Joe and Carol’s experiences and the eventual success in addressing PTSD later led to the establishment of AboutFace-USA.
OUR MISSION
Empower and Encourage
AboutFace-USA is more than just an organization; it is a community initiative founded on the principle of peer-led support. We exist to serve as a first point of contact for veterans and their families, guiding them toward the necessary resources and support to understand and manage mental health challenges effectively. Our goal is to help veterans improve their relationships, cope better with daily stresses, and positively alter the trajectory of their lives.
As we approach our 50th wedding anniversary in January 2025, we reflect on our journey and the lessons learned. It’s a celebration not just of our marriage but also of the progress we’ve made in advocating for mental health awareness and support within the veteran community.