Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services

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Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services

We are a resource for individuals and organizations interested in veterans long term well-being. Our mission is to ensure both values are made possible.

At Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, we believe our veterans and military families can succeed where they live. We also believe that every organization can effectively integrate veterans and their families into their existing programs. Dixon Center is a resource for individuals, organizations, and communities interested in the long-term wellbeing of our veterans and their families.

We use ideas, influence, and actions to assist direct service providers transform the lives of service members, veterans, and their families, ensuring they reach their full potential. We work at local and national levels and focus across three pillars:

- Work with Purpose— Creating pathways to careers where veteransearn a family wage, have affordable healthcare, and benefits. Careers that allow veterans to set and meet their future goals.

- Heal with Honor— Developing holistic solutions that focus on theeight dimensions of wellness: mental, physical, social, environmental, occupational, spiritual, intellectual, and financial; ensuring that veterans and their families, not only survive, but thrive.

- Live with Hope—Accessing affordable housing—living in a safe,secure, and comfortable environment in harmony with a local community where a veteran can function independently and contribute to society as a private citizen. We don’t ask organizations to create new programs. We invite them to include veterans—and their families—in what they already do. Because America’s veterans deserve America’s very best. By engaging with more communities, leveraging legislation, and helping local organizations build and expand their capacity, we create truly transformative change. Broadly speaking, we are moving from a model of crisis intervention to one of crisis prevention. Because it is easier—and far more cost-effective—to stop trouble before it starts. Dixon Center is uniquely positioned to be a proactive player in all this. We are experts in creating a national network with proven results—massing resources to meet critical needs. As a member of The Fedcap Group, a global network of top-tier nonprofit agencies, we are shining a national spotlight on the issues facing veterans and their families – mobilizing resources and expertise to modernize solutions. This approach works. Since 2012, our collaboration and capacity building has impacted nearly 2.1 million individuals and organizations.

06/09/2026

In the first half of FY2026, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services advanced its mission through steady operational progress and strategic outreach.

Launched 7 planned operations
Advanced 42 projects
Moved forward 7 policy proposals or new ideas
Participated in 12 conferences, workshops, and public events

Featured Highlights One key milestone was Fedcap’s release of its first-half FY2026 operating and financial results, which highlighted the strength of a diversified model serving more than 252,000 individuals across education, workforce development, health, and economic development.

Three other highlights include:

Council of College and Military Educators National Symposium: The Center joined leaders examining how education, technology, and workforce partnerships can better support military-connected communities.

Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Program conference: Participation reinforced the importance of peer-led mental health support for veterans.

VETS26 Conference: Hosted by the National Veteran Small Business Coalition, this event provided an opportunity to share ideas around the theme “Growing Your Business” and strengthen connections that support veteran entrepreneurship and federal contracting opportunities.

Together, these first half results reflect strong momentum across the Center’s core pillars. They also position the Center to build on positive outcomes for partners, expand capacity, and advance its three priorities: support, growth, and profitability.

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Photos:

L: Michele Spires and Wendy Lang celebrate a new partnership between the Center and the American Council on Education

M: National Veterans Small Business Coalition VETS26

R: The Center engaging with leadership from the Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Program

06/05/2026

Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services: Fueling the Pipeline of Dreams Through Fundraising

How Strategic Fundraising and Stewardship Drive Our Mission Forward

We are committed to making a real difference in the lives of veterans and their families. As we move through FY26, our Development team shared in last month’s Bugler that we are on track to meet our budget goals, reflecting 12% growth over the previous fiscal year. That progress is about more than numbers - it reflects our commitment to growing our impact and honoring our donors who intend their donations to be used to make lives better.

At the heart of our fundraising work is what we call the “pipeline of dreams.” It’s our way of building a strong, steady flow of support and resources for the future. More than a fundraising plan, it’s a long-term vision that helps us grow our ability to build capacity by organizations, individuals, communities and movements who with our ongoing support serve veterans and their families locally, across the country.

That growth starts with relationships. We invest in long-term partnerships with people and organizations that believe in our mission. These connections are more than funding - they are built on trust, shared values, and a shared commitment to creating a better future for those who have served. Because of that support, we can plan with confidence and continue investing in our three pillars, six programs, and the operations & projects that truly make a difference.

Spring is always an important season for us. It’s when we focus on applying for and securing major grant renewals for the current fiscal year. That includes support from our three largest foundation funders - relationships we have built and cared for over many years. Their steady partnership has played a major role in sustaining our work and helping us move our vision forward.

For us, grant renewals are about more than funding. They show that we are earning and keeping the trust of our donors. Each renewal reflects years of stewardship, transparency, and collaboration. Our Development team puts a great deal of care into both the application process and showing the real impact of our programs. Through thoughtful reporting and regular communication, we help our funders see how their support is changing lives.

Alongside foundation grants, we also work closely with individual donors, corporate partners, and community organizations. Our fundraising includes everything from annual campaigns to special events and targeted outreach. Each effort is meant to build genuine connections, inspire generosity, and strengthen relationships over time. We know that every gift - large or small - helps move our mission forward.

Stewardship is one of the guiding principles behind everything we do. We see it as an ongoing relationship, not a one-time interaction. By thanking our supporters, sharing stories of impact, and keeping people updated on our progress, we build trust and encourage lasting support. That approach has helped us grow a loyal community of partners who believe in our long-term success.

As we look ahead to the rest of FY26, we remain focused on meeting our budget goals and strengthening the pipeline of dreams. With a 12% growth target, we have a real opportunity to expand our reach and deepen our impact. Our long-term funders and donors will continue to be essential partners, giving us the stability we need to pursue new opportunities and meet new challenges.

At the end of the day, it is the steady support of our partners that makes this work possible. Because of them, we can continue pursuing our vision of building capacity nationally and locally and improving the lives of veterans and their families. Through thoughtful fundraising, strong stewardship, and meaningful relationships, we keep moving that vision forward - one dream at a time.

We invite you to be part of this journey. Whether you have supported us for years or are just getting to know our work, your involvement matters. Together, we can build a future where veterans and their families thrive - and where hope and opportunity continue to grow for those who have served.

06/02/2026

Innovation is Our Lifeblood

Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services (the Center) is attending the annual Social Innovation Summit in Atlanta, Georgia. The summit is a leading forum for sharing ideas, building connections, and finding partners committed to improving lives.

To support our business development goals, our team is connected with leaders across many sectors that are advancing social change around the world. Veterans may not be the initial focus of these discussions, but when we share our leadership and expertise, it becomes clear that veterans and military families are part of the communities these efforts aim to serve.

In turn, leaders recognize that including veterans and military families in their strategies and plans is not only the right thing to do, but also essential to meaningful innovation.

05/29/2026

Team of Teams: Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services Internal and External Depth Creating National Reach and Local Impact

Part Five of a Five-Part Series: Empowering Organizations and Communities to Support Veterans and Their Families

Background and Series Overview: Enhancing Capacity for Veteran Support

The Center for Military and Veterans Services (the Center) acts as a national resource hub, building capacity of organizations, communities, individuals and movements who with our ongoing assistance are providing veterans and their families with coordinated support and resources. A part of our mission is to bridge gaps in care, empower organizations and communities, and enable veterans to thrive through meaningful action and healing.

This article wraps up our series outlining essential strategies for supporting veterans. We highlight the expertise and dedication of our staff, whose teamwork and commitment drive innovative solutions and foster a supportive environment.
Our strength comes from both our skilled team and The Fedcap Group’s back-office support.

Our Mission: Making a Lasting Difference Through Service

We aim to ensure every veteran and their family receives comprehensive support and opportunities. By focusing on measurable outcomes and collaborative partnerships across government, healthcare, faith communities, and volunteers, we create coordinated approaches that effectively serve veterans and their families.

Systems of Strength: Excellence Within and Beyond

Rooted in systems theory, our approach acknowledges veterans’ wellbeing as shaped by interconnected networks: family, community, healthcare, employment, and support organizations. By viewing these elements as a dynamic system, we promote collaboration and information flow among stakeholders to address complex needs efficiently. This holistic perspective builds organizational capacity through direct services and strong partnerships, aligned resources, and adaptive solutions for veterans and their families.

Our impact relies on robust internal and external systems that ensure each initiative is thoughtfully planned, communicated, and executed. Aligning our resources and expertise extends our mission to more communities.

Internally, our team excels across essential functions: development secures funding and partnerships; communications raise awareness; project managers oversee quality and seamless delivery. Strategic planning drives significant outcomes.

Staff expertise sets us apart. We assess grassroots solutions, refining best practices and learning from less effective approaches. Community initiatives thrive on genuine engagement, adaptive problem-solving, and peer collaboration.

Our organizational culture – marked by mutual respect, collaboration, and shared purpose – guides operations and shapes external relationships. Low staff turnover reflects commitment and stability, allowing ongoing improvement and retention of institutional knowledge.

Staff Testimonials: Commitment and Growth

“I value our leadership’s dedication to the mission, inspiring meaningful work for veterans and families.”
“This team fosters purpose and impactful projects that truly benefit those who have served.”
“My growth here is substantial, with ongoing learning and recognition for my contributions.”
Externally, The Fedcap Group provides the Center with 501(c)(3) status and comprehensive services – finance, HR, IT, logistics, and administration. Their support allows us to focus on our mission, maintaining efficiency and compliance. Fedcap’s leadership promotes accountability and innovation.

The Fedcap Group: Stewardship and Integrity

As part of Fedcap, we uphold fiscal transparency and integrity. Our finances are included in consolidated audited statements reviewed annually. In FY2024, 88% of expenditures were directed to programming. We’ve earned the 2023 Candid Gold Seal of Transparency.

Fedcap’s stewardship reinforces donor confidence, ensuring funds benefit veterans’ programs and fostering ethical governance and public trust.

Donor support is vital, enabling essential services and demonstrating our commitment to accountability and transparency. Their contributions drive lasting impact in the communities we serve.

Donor Testimonials: Trust and Satisfaction

“I’m impressed by the Center’s financial stewardship and transparent reporting.”
“Our foundation trusts their accountability and innovation, making gifts impactful.”
“The Center’s ethical governance and streamlined donation process motivate continued support.”
Our combined internal and external strengths sustain our impact. By leveraging expertise and resources, we deliver holistic, flexible support for veterans and families – a model of excellence nationwide.

Conclusion: Creating Coordinated, Lasting Impact

As a trusted national clearinghouse, we empower our partner organizations to navigate challenges, respond to the changing needs of veterans, and deliver meaningful, impactful support. Guided by purpose, honor, and hope, our collective efforts strive to ensure veterans and their families are recognized, uplifted, and prepared for lifelong success. The outcomes speak for themselves – lasting improvements and heartfelt testimonials from veterans demonstrate the positive difference our work continues to make. Together, we are building a coordinated legacy of support that transforms lives and strengthens communities.

05/26/2026

Memorial Day - Reflect and Remember

Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services (the Center) dedicated the recent Memorial Day Weekend to a series of purposeful activities and initiatives.

Memorial Day Weekend at the Center is a time to honor and reflect on the courage and sacrifice of our nation’s fallen service members and their families. Embracing this year’s theme, Reflect and Remember, our team and families joined community and national celebrations—participating in ceremonies, parades, flag placements, concerts, and even swearing in our next generation of service members.

The Center mailed out 700 Memorial Day cards, reminding recipients to pause and honor generations who have given everything for the freedoms we cherish.

At the heart of our message and Memorial Day mailer was a powerful stanza from Laurence Binyon’s poem For the Fallen (written in September 1914):

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them."

We hope you took a moment to reflect and remember those whose legacy lives on in our hearts and communities.

05/25/2026

We hope everyone pauses today to reflect and remember the reason for the holiday today.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

05/19/2026

A War Widow Reflects on Memorial Day

Saturday morning, I got up early to take our son to football practice. At 9:15 there was a knock on the door, and I figured it was a neighbor.

But it wasn’t.

The 29th of September. 9:15 that morning. That’s when I learned my husband was killed in action during the war of Iraq.
___________________________

No matter how many years pass, it’s never easy. Memorial Day, a day of remembrance for our fallen service members, is never easy.

For some, Memorial Day is being viewed as a nice long weekend with bar-b-ques, and summer kick-off. And that’s okay, as long as we also keep in mind that this is a day we honor our men and women that have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

It’s my hope that by sharing my story, and perhaps some of my pain, that it helps to bridge that gap. Unless you have been impacted, you will not understand the feeling of getting that knock on your door, only to see two armed servicemen standing on the other side.�I’ve grieved. But the most important thing I want to tell people is that I don’t grieve any more. Rather, I honor.

As we celebrate, let’s remember our fallen heroes– and the families of the fallen.

I’m often asked how to do this? Simple, just say “Thank You”. I don’t think we understand how powerful a simple, spoken expression of gratitude can be for Gold Star families.

I know it can feel uncomfortable. I understand. That’s why I’m sharing my story, because it’s not as simple as what you may have seen on TV. If you talk to me, or any Gold Star family, you may not realize it, but you may be helping individuals with their mental health when you allow them to share their story.

For me, it’s hard to go back and reflect on that day, but I know there is purpose in knowing that my story , like many others will help you better understand the impact of Memorial Day.

About the Author

Dr. Latrese Dixon ,PhD, is a Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services Blue and Gold Star Family Partner, a National non-profit that takes its name from her husband, Army Staff Sergeant Donnie Dixon. He was killed in action while serving in Iraq in 2007. The Center isn’t named in memory of Donnie. It’s named to honor his values - loyalty and duty, respect and honor, integrity, and courage. Qualities that America’s military holds dear.

This column originally ran May 22, 2019 via Inside Sources and in our own newsletter.

05/15/2026

Strengthening Nationwide Support: Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services Pillars

Part Four of a Five-Part Series: Empowering Organizations and Communities to Serve Veterans and Their Families

Background and Series Overview: Building Capacity for Veteran Support

The Center for Military and Veterans Services (the Center) serves as a central resource across the nation, building capacity with organizations, individuals, communities, and movements dedicated to providing comprehensive care, respect, and opportunities for veterans and their families.[1] At the core of our mission is the goal of closing service gaps and driving meaningful outcomes that empower both communities and organizations to coordinate support for those who have served. We emphasize deliberate actions, respectful healing, and fostering hope, all of which cultivate environments that strengthen veteran resilience and success.

This fourth installment in our five-part series details the primary strategies for creating lasting change for veterans and their families. Each section addresses vital aspects of our work, offering practical guidance and insights for advocates, organizational leaders, and community partners. Our clearinghouse model demonstrates our commitment to building capacity, equipping organizations nationwide with tools and expert advice. By disseminating best practices and encouraging collaboration, we reinforce the durability and reach of support systems at the local and national levels.

Our work is anchored in three essential pillars: Work with Purpose, Heal with Honor, and Live with Hope. These pillars guide how we equip organizations and communities to meet veterans and their families where they are — with the right resources, the right expertise, and a shared commitment to meaningful outcomes. By building the capacity of those on the front lines of service, we help create pathways through challenge and toward lasting opportunity. The result is a coordinated, community-driven approach that addresses both the immediate and long-term needs of those who have served.

Our Mission: Lasting Impact Through Service

Since our inception, our mission has been clear: to ensure that every veteran and their family receive meaningful support, respect, and opportunities from informed, innovative and integrated communities. This guiding principle informs all our programs and partnerships, shaping a vision in which veterans can flourish. We emphasize positive, measurable outcomes and work diligently to bridge gaps in services, resources, and community engagement.

The Three Pillars: Foundations for Lasting Impact

Our core philosophy - “Work with Purpose, Heal with Honor, Live with Hope” - shapes every initiative, partnership, and service for veterans and their families. These foundational principles guide our efforts to create enduring, positive changes for individuals and communities alike.

Work with Purpose: Aligning Actions to Meaningful Outcomes

“Work with Purpose” reflects our commitment to developing strategic, mission-aligned activities for veterans. Creating pathways to careers where veterans earn a family wage and have affordable healthcare and benefits. Careers that allow veterans to set and meet their future goals. Programs: Workforce Development and Career Placement, and Veteran Entrepreneurship
Assist organizations in developing programs that put veterans on the road to productive, meaningful careers—careers that provide wages that allow veterans to invest in their families’ future, provide access to healthcare and benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
Access to apprenticeships, credentials (licenses, certificates, and certifications).
Increasing the impact of programs that support and encourage veteran entrepreneurs.

Heal with Honor: Promoting Dignity, Respect, and Empowerment

“Heal with Honor” stands for our unwavering dedication to veterans’ well-being. Recognizing the complex challenges they may encounter, we create healing environments rooted in dignity and respect. Through our Programs: Clearinghouse, and Wellness we partner and work with local and national organizations, empowering them by enhancing their ability to integrate veterans and their families and creating networks that foster connection, recovery, and a renewed sense of purpose for veterans. Through our work as a resource hub for organizations and individuals, those touched by military service will lead fulfilling, meaningful lives as productive members of their communities.
We provide data and tools that help individuals and organizations drive positive outcomes for veterans and their families and help them achieve their goals.
Connecting with direct-service wellness providers and programs supporting veterans.
We advocate for veterans who have underlying issues that put them at greater risk of loneliness and isolation.
Leveraging technology to increase access to wellness for veterans and their families.

Live with Hope: Inspiring a Brighter Future for Veterans and
Their Families

“Live with Hope” highlights the importance of optimism and perseverance among veterans and their families. Through our Programs: Housing, and Basic Needs - we collaborate with organizations and service providers, equipping them with the tools and strategies needed to provide affordable housing solutions and to prevent veterans from becoming homeless. What’s more, our network of partners strives to address the housing crisis by creating a community of support. These include support for food security, safe housing, transportation, public health, and crisis relief.
Creating solutions that provide opportunities for affordable housing—living in a safe, secure, and comfortable setting in harmony with a local community where a veteran can function independently and contribute to society as a private citizen.
Resource sharing to assist with basic needs.
Increasing the impact of organizations that combat homelessness and help veterans navigate their evolving needs.

Integrating the Pillars for Holistic Support

When united, these three pillars amplify our organizational impact. Purposeful work, honorable healing, and hopeful living together foster a culture of empowerment that extends beyond our organization. Sharing best practices and resources supports broader adoption of these values, benefiting veterans everywhere.

The Enduring Importance of Our Pillars

These pillars provide a systematic framework for meeting the ongoing needs of veterans and their families. They guide our efforts to deliver focused support, compassionate care, and actionable hope, ensuring that veterans remain valued members of society. As we look ahead, these pillars continue to anchor our values-driven approach to support.

Collaborative Partnerships and Facilitation: Uniting for the Greater Good

We recognize that true progress results from teamwork. By forging partnerships among government agencies, healthcare professionals, faith-based organizations, and volunteers, we create coordinated strategies that tap into each partner’s strengths. This collaborative method improves resource allocation and guarantees veterans receive seamless, comprehensive support.

Conclusion: Coordinated, Lasting Impact for Veterans and Their Families

In summary, our dedication to veterans and their families is built on the integration of honor, hope, and collaboration. By upholding these pillars, we create an inclusive and supportive environment where every veteran can prosper. Together, we ensure that their contributions are honored, their needs are addressed, and their futures are brightened - achieving lasting, positive change for generations to come.

[1] What is a community? In our work, we use the definition of Community (or community-based) organizations from the Well After Service: Veteran Reintegration and American Communities published by the Center for a New American Security written by Nancy Berglass and Margaret C. Harrell in April 2012.
https://www.files.ethz.ch/isn/141852/CNAS_WellAfterService_BerglassHarrell.pdf Community (or community-based) organizations are nonprofit entities that exist to serve the specific needs of a given community—whether defined by geography, field of interest, affiliation, or affinity—and whose leadership, mission, and programs authentically reflect that community. Some community organizations officially incorporate as nonprofits with the Internal Revenue Service, while others are less formal, less sophisticated, or otherwise formed ad hoc by people working together voluntarily to effect change or create new opportunities regarding a specific issue or population. Community organizations are generally understood to be a subset of the larger field of nonprofits, including but not limited to institutional entities (like some hospitals and universities), chapters or affiliates of national organizations, faith-based organizations (such as churches and synagogues), and fraternal and civic organizations. In this report, we refer to community “organizations” and community “models.” Organizations are singular entities, usually self-governed by an appointed board of directors, operated by a paid or volunteer staff that is accountable to that board, and driven by adherence to a clear and concise mission statement. Examples vary widely, from youth sports clubs to local chapters of prominent national organizations. Community models for veteran reintegration, by contrast, are coalitions or groups of organizations—including nonprofit, civic, philanthropic, and business entities—that come together strategically and in partnership to combine and leverage resources toward a common community goal. Some community veteran reintegration models, including a few represented in the working group assembled to inform this report, have incorporated to become stand-alone organizations; others are run cooperatively—most often on a volunteer basis—by leaders from the various organizations that are members of the larger group.

05/12/2026

Celebrating a Remarkable Achievement as the Development Team Secures $200,000 in Donations

The Center for Military and Veterans Services is proud to announce a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to empower and support our nation’s veterans.

Over the past three weeks, our dedicated Development Team has coordinated and facilitated a remarkable $200,000 in donations from two generous family foundations, as well as other donors.

This achievement not only reflects the team’s unwavering commitment to our cause, but also highlights the trust and support our community partners have in our vision to improve the lives of military service members, veterans, and their families.

These contributions will directly fuel vital programs aimed at workforce development, health and wellness, and community integration for those who have served. The Development Team’s tireless efforts in building relationships and fostering collaboration have made this outcome possible, opening the door for new opportunities and lasting impact. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the family foundations and to everyone who supports our Center’s work.

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633 Third Avenue 6th Floor
New York, NY
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Website

http://www.dixoncenter.org/

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