About-Us
Dedicated to Empowering Veterans and Their Families on Their Journey to Recovery and Resilience
Joe and Carol LaBranche
OUR STORY
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.
CALL TO ACTION
Seek Help Now
If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftereffects of service, we urge you not to wait. Contact us for a confidential discussion and to discover the steps you can take toward recovery and wellness. Your future, and that of your family, can be brighter with the right support.
At AboutFace-USA, we are committed to turning respect and appreciation for our veterans into tangible action and support. Join us in our mission to empower, support, and transform the lives of veterans and their families for the better.
Your Donation = Real Impact for Veterans in Need
When you donate to AboutFace-USA®, you’re not just giving money—you’re giving hope, healing, and a chance at a better future for our veterans. Every dollar counts, and here’s how your generosity makes a difference:
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Project GROW:
Veterans Healing through Nature
At AboutFace Farm, veterans can experience the healing power of nature. Thanks to your support, they can learn aeroponic gardening techniques through Clint and Sheree of Sweetwater Urban Farms. This program offers a hands-on, therapeutic experience, giving veterans the skills to grow their own microgreens and connect with the earth, all while healing mentally and emotionally.
Why Your Donation Matters:
In 2024 alone, 110 veterans and their families have found healing, support, and empowerment through our programs. But we need your help to continue making a difference.
Every dollar counts.
Every dollar changes lives.
When you give to AboutFace-USA®, you’re not just making a donation—you’re helping veterans rebuild their lives, restore their hope, and reclaim their future.
Donate today.
Because they’ve fought for us.
Now, we fight for them.
Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress and the Need for Support
At AboutFace-USA, we recognize that Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS) can manifest in a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, often arriving without any apparent reason and impacting relationships, employment, and daily decision-making. Importantly, PTS is not always combat-related; it can arise from any traumatic experience witnessed or endured. Effective treatments like therapy and medication are available and can lead to significant improvements.
The need for robust support systems is underscored by distressing statistics: An estimated 1 in 5 veterans suffers from PTSD and/or depression. The Disabled Veterans National Foundation highlights that more than a quarter million OEF/OIF veterans have experienced traumatic brain injuries (TBI), with approximately 53% of homeless veterans suffering from disabilities, including mental health issues.
The toll of modern conflicts is severe, with advances in medical technology allowing service members to survive physical traumas but often at a great cost to their mental health and quality of life. Shockingly, post-9/11 service member suicide rates have surpassed combat deaths, emphasizing an urgent need for community advocacy for better services and support.
20 Years of War – A Costs of War Series – click here for full report – 6/2021
Learn More and Get Involved
Thank you for taking the time to learn about our journey and the mission of AboutFace-USA®. Our story is one of resilience, advocacy, and a deep commitment to supporting those who have served our nation. As we continue to expand our reach and enhance our programs, we invite you to become a part of our community.
Explore Our Programs and Services
Our wide range of programs is designed to address the diverse needs of veterans and their families. From mental health support and financial literacy coaching to peer-led support groups and community-building activities, we have something that can make a meaningful difference in every veteran’s life.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Whether you are a veteran in need of support, a family member looking to better understand and help your loved one, or a community member eager to give back, there are numerous ways to get involved with AboutFace-USA. By volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, you can help us provide essential services and continue our critical work.
Get In Touch
For more information about our programs, or if you have questions and need guidance on how to start your journey with us, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to provide support, offer information, and welcome new members to our community.
- Email: info@aboutface-usa.org
- Phone: 1-888-766-0222
- Visit Us Online: Visit our website for more details about our programs and how you can help make a difference.
Together, we can build a supportive network that not only honors the sacrifices of our veterans but also provides them with the tools they need to thrive. Join us at AboutFace-USA as we work to transform appreciation into action, creating a brighter future for veterans and their families. Your involvement is crucial to our success and to the well-being of our veteran community.