news release

It’s no surprise that life is often difficult for veterans after they finish their tours of duty or time in the service. Physical and mental health issues are a frequent consequence of military service, and research shows that over 40 percent of veterans experience difficulty adjusting to civilian life and an even higher number experience angry outbursts. Other issues affecting veterans include alcoholism or substance abuse, impaired ability to engage in activities that once brought joy or fulfillment, inability to hold a steady job, and often, homelessness.

Thankfully, since 1987, the Veterans Council of Indian River County has operated under the premise that, “Our strength lies not only in the words we stand by, but most importantly through the actions of our initiatives. Our nonprofit organization realized that by working together we could overcome our challenges much more efficiently to support all Indian River County veterans and their families while raising awareness of veteran needs and their contributions to society.”

With over 140 community partnerships, the Veterans Council of Indian River County serves over 16,000 veterans and their families, assisting in times of crisis with emergency financial aid, housing, utility assistance, medical bills, necessary home repairs, and other critical needs. Supporting veterans both serving and post-service is important to all of us, and the Dyer Difference Award for August and celebrating the work of the Veterans Council of Indian River County was an easy decision for the whole Dyer staff family.

The Dyer Difference Award is all about celebrating the beauty and kindness in our midst. For the Dyer family and the members of the Dyer staff, the award and the $6,000 in donations made monthly between the St. Lucie and Indian River Counties are all about helping to make a positive difference in the community. For the recipients, it’s an acknowledgement of their tireless efforts to do the same and a much-needed financial boost to help further their missions. If you’d like to nominate a non-profit organization for the Dyer Difference Award, please visit www.dyerdifference.org or find Dyer Difference on Facebook.