For many veterans, transitioning from military service to civilian life can be challenging. Thanks to the efforts of organizations like the Veterans Community Project (VCP), homeless veterans can find the help they need to get their lives back on track.

"We provide transitional housing to homeless veterans," said Sean Anderson, lead case manager for VCP.

With a mission to help customers with home maintenance, it wasn’t long before Westlake Ace Hardware became involved with VCP and its tiny home project for veterans.

Giving back to the community is a goal of every Ace store. With over 150 stores in 12 states, Kansas City-based Westlake Ace Hardware even employs a Human Resources Manager for Culture & Core Values. Curt Sparks represents Ace in this role and is responsible for coordinating philanthropic activities with organizations like VCP across the Midwest.

Although the homes from VCP are small, they are fully equipped with a kitchen, refrigerator and furnishings. "It’s everything you need to move in," said Glenn Kershaw, veteran and former VCP resident. "It’s that boost that some people need."

After providing paint and other much-needed supplies to the VCP, Curt and the Ace team began to brainstorm how else they could help veterans in need. Ace vendors pitched in with hundreds of tools that Ace employees assembled into tool kits in buckets. Westlake Ace Hardware donated these tool kits to VCP to use and distribute to veterans.

"It had all kinds of stuff that I needed and that I use every day," said Chris Perry, veteran and former VCP resident.

Helping veterans transition to civilian life and build their skills fills Ace employees’ hearts with pride.

"Helpful is getting out of yourself and understanding the value of other people," said Curt. "It’s the joy you get when you serve."