From Setbacks to Success: A Veteran’s Road to Employment
Testimonial
My name is Dack Anderson, and it has been a long road. As a U.S. Navy veteran who recovered from homelessness in 2020, I completed my college degree through the VA’s VR&E Chapter 31 Program in 2024, and successfully interned with Colorado Springs Utilities. But then I eventually found myself unemployed for fourteen months. After submitting more than 450 applications, I’m nevertheless grateful for the people and organizations who supported me along the way until I finally found a new job.
Volunteers of America Colorado (VOA‑CO), especially my Employment Counselor, Ms. Sara Ramirez, provided steady guidance throughout my search. She introduced me to Project: Return To Work Inc. (R2W) only a few weeks before my breakthrough, but even in that short time, their online workshops and encouragement were meaningful. I was especially humbled to learn that R2W’s Chaplain, Ms. Fern Ballou (at 96 years old!), had been praying for me daily. As a man of faith, that meant more to me than I can fully express.
While the final success came through persistence, preparation, and God’s timing, I’m thankful for every person who helped me stay focused and hopeful. I appreciate the collaboration between VOA and R2W, and I hope my story encourages others who are still working toward their own breakthrough.
Fern Ballou, R2W Chaplain
Dack Anderson
Call To Action
R2W Mascots Shine at Colorado Kennel Club Show! 🐾🇺🇸
R2W’s own mascots, Yin and Yang—better known as Bilbo and Olive—made an impressive showing at the Colorado Kennel Club Dog Show, held February 13–15, 2026, at the National Western Events Center in Denver.
Now officially “adults” at 12 months, this brother‑sister team stepped into the ring with confidence and delivered outstanding results:
- Olive (Yang) swept Best in Breed all three days
- Bilbo (Yin) earned Best Opposite each day
- Olive went on to compete head‑to‑head with all breeds for the top ribbons
These wins weren’t just personal victories—they were proudly dedicated to our Guard and Reserve families, and to the STEM interns who help drive millions of dollars in donated technologies to bridge the civilian–military divide. 🎖️💻
R2W Founder Rob Brazell shared:\ “This is the largest show Yin and Yang have competed in. Grooming bays stretched endlessly—you should’ve seen the parade of perfectly primped competitors. Thanks to Diedre, our new master Groomer and Handler from The Wag Shop, our pups have never looked or performed better. Her story is inspiring—stay tuned for what’s next.”
Annell Henderson, Olive’s owner, shares grooming tips with Diedre Hered, Owner of The Wag Shop.
