About Veterans R.I.S.E. Initiative
A Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the lives of unhoused veterans through community, connection, and compassionate support.
Our Mission
Empowering veterans to rise.
Veterans R.I.S.E. Initiative is dedicated to strengthening the lives of veterans through Recreation, Integration, Support, and Empowerment by providing community engagement, supportive programming, resource connection, outreach, and opportunities that promote stability, belonging, independence, and overall well-being.
Recreation
Healing through activity, play, and shared experience. We believe joy and community are essential to recovery and well-being. Past activities include art and music therapy, fishing trips, game nights, movie and theater outings, and Super Bowl parties.
Integration
Through peer engagement and social gatherings, we help veterans step out of isolation and back into being part of the community, rebuilding the sense of belonging that is essential to lasting stability.
Support
Meeting veterans where they are with practical help, trusted referrals, and a consistent presence they can count on. This includes winter coat and accessories handouts, hygiene supply distribution, and transportation assistance for veterans transitioning into permanent housing.
Empowerment
Building the confidence, skills, and agency veterans need to shape their own futures and lead independent, fulfilling lives. We bring in guest speakers covering personal finances, VA benefits, mental health access, and other veteran organizations — giving veterans the knowledge and connections to advocate for themselves and take ownership of their next chapter.
Our Story
Born from service. Built for community.
Veterans R.I.S.E. Initiative is a veteran-focused nonprofit dedicated to supporting, connecting, and empowering veterans in our community. What began as a funded program at A Safe Haven continued through volunteer efforts, personal funding, and community partnerships — and has now grown into an independent 501(c)(3).
Funds raised help provide hygiene and essential supplies, weekly meals, recreational therapy activities, and transportation assistance for veterans transitioning into permanent housing.
Today, we run free programs, resource fairs, peer support circles, and outreach events across Chicago. We partner with VA facilities, housing providers, employers, and community organizations to make sure no veteran has to navigate the road to stability alone.
Supporting veterans. Building connections. Empowering new beginnings.
What We Stand For
Our values guide everything we do.
Dignity First
Every veteran is treated with the respect and honor their service deserves — no matter their circumstances.
Community Over Isolation
We build belonging. Loneliness is one of the greatest threats to veteran well-being, and connection is one of our most powerful tools.
Whole-Person Care
We address housing, health, employment, and social connection together — because stability requires all of them.
Trust Through Consistency
We show up — again and again. Trust is built through reliability, and we earn it one interaction at a time.
Our Leadership
The people behind the mission.
Dee Garcia- Army Veteran
Founder & Executive Director
Dee Garcia is a U.S. Army Veteran who served with the 101st Airborne Division as a Healthcare Specialist. Dee brings 18 years of healthcare operations experience to her role as Founder and Executive Director. Her background spans emergency care, medical logistics, case management, and mental health programming. As a volunteer Program Coordinator at A Safe Haven Foundation, she coordinated weekly mental health and recreational programming for veterans and connected them with housing and supportive mental health resources — experience that inspired her to launch Veterans R.I.S.E. Initiative as her own nonprofit, dedicated to empowering veterans through recreation, integration, support, and empowerment.
Aisha Williams- Army Veteran
Board Secretary
Aisha is a U.S. Army Veteran and dedicated advocate for the veteran community, bringing more than 16 years of experience in military logistics, aviation maintenance, operations management, and customer service. Throughout her military and civilian career, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership, accountability, and mission-focused service. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Aisha is passionate about serving and uplifting fellow veterans. For years, she has provided peer support and mentorship to veterans navigating the VA healthcare system and disability claims process — helping them understand their benefits, access healthcare services, and connect with programs that support their long-term well-being and success.
Richard Villarreal
Director of Finance
Richard Villarreal is a finance and investment professional with a passion for serving his community and helping those in need. He earned his undergraduate degree from Loyola University Chicago and holds two master’s degrees from the University of Notre Dame and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Richard is married and the proud father of two young boys. Outside of his professional career, he is committed to giving back through charitable and community-focused initiatives, with a particular interest in supporting veterans and individuals facing housing insecurity. He believes in using his skills, time, and resources to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Michael O'Connell- Army Veteran
Mental Health Consultant
Michael O'Connell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and U.S. Army veteran who brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and military service to the board. Michael served with the 10th Mountain Division during combat operations in Iraq in 2006 and 2007. As a clinician with the Road Home Program at Rush University Medical Center, he provides evidence-based treatment for PTSD and other behavioral health concerns affecting veterans, service members, and their families. His clinical work includes trauma-focused therapies, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention — all informed by his own experience navigating the barriers to successful community reintegration.
Join us in this work.
Whether you're a veteran seeking support, an organization looking to partner, or a community member who wants to help — there's a place for you here.