Impact Stories: Ted

Transitioning from military life wasn’t hard for Ted, likely due to his athletic background emphasizing discipline and structure. Yet, navigating civilian job opportunities to align with his former military role as a signalman presented challenges. 

Unexpectedly, Ted discovered his new calling within the hospitality and food industry. Utilizing the precision and discipline learned from managing flags, spotlights, and Morse code, he began serving up delicious food from a truck he co-owns with another veteran. On top of this, he also works at a popular local restaurant as the head of their events and wedding catering division. 

Ted’s life took a dramatic turn following a DUI incident. Legal consequences and prolonged detention led to the loss of his apartment. Fortunately, he found support via a veteran liaison. 

Referred to Volunteers of America of Florida (VOAFL) in December 2022, Ted began receiving the that he needed from VOAFL’s dedicated team, which allowed Ted to refocus on growing his food truck business while planning his transition to permanent housing. 

Ted wholeheartedly appreciates the Bob Woodruff Foundation (BWF), and VOAFL team’s assistance. Their efforts were especially critical as he faced financial setbacks due to Florida’s food industry’s seasonal nature, causing him to falter with his program fees. 

Thanks to the BWF grant, Ted managed to keep up with his dues, enabling him to concentrate on enhancing his food truck business. With his finances back on track, he can now turn his attention toward his long-term goal of securing permanent housing. 

Ted’s story, moving from the discipline of the military to a different, rewarding path in the food industry, stands as a testimony to resilience and adaptability.  

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