Mission Statement

Veterans Rural Outreach (VRO) provides for the needs of veterans in Shelbyville/Shelby County, Kentucky and surrounding counties with food assistance, emergency shelter, transitional housing for the homeless, counseling, and community engagement. The mission of VRO is restoring total health to local veterans in an environment of compassion, mercy, and love.

Overview

Veterans Rural Outreach (VRO) began serving veterans throughout Shelby County, Kentucky, and surrounding counties in 2015- providing emergency shelter, food, remodeling homes, and advocating for veterans in need. While serving these veterans, VRO saw a need for providing a community for homeless veterans. In 2019, VRO partnered with Awake Ministries and Crossroads Missions to break ground on six tiny homes in downtown Shelbyville, Kentucky. On October 1, 2020, Veterans Village opened these fully furnished homes for homeless veterans in need. The centerpiece of Veterans Village, a 2,300 square foot community center, opened the following year. The community center provides space for all area veterans and those who want to serve them to gather throughout the year. On April 18th, 2022, VRO assumed full responsibility of Veterans Village. The VRO Board of Directors, staff, and supporters are excited to partner with the greater community as we walk alongside our nation’s veterans in their time of need.

President

Ray Leathers

Vice President

Gerald Sebree

Board Members

Carlen Pippin

Linda Baker

Bob Diemond

Jim Fegenbush

Stanley Fister

Jerry Karem

Bobby Pridemore

Joe Wright

Aaron Garofola

Staff Members

Jimmy Hatter

Community Coordinator

Dwight Gwinn

Project Superintendent

Louis Faust

Executive Director