Allow me to introduce you to Ron Hernandez, founder of Moving Veterans Forward and, in my eyes, the definition of a true hero right here in our very own community. His dedication to serving those who served our country is not just admirable but deeply inspiring. Through Moving Veterans Forward, Ron has created a nonprofit organization that’s making a real difference in the lives of homeless veterans across Nebraska and Iowa.
Founded in 2016, Moving Veterans Forward (MVF) is a local nonprofit with one powerful mission: to provide homeless veterans with fully furnished homes, offering them a stepping stone to regain their independence and build brighter futures. What started as a small initiative has grown into a vital service in our community, providing a lifeline for veterans who have been forgotten by society. In my recent interview with Ron Hernandez, I learned just how much heart and soul goes into this organization, and why his passion for helping veterans is unwavering.
Table of Contents
A Vision Rooted in Compassion
Ron’s journey with Moving Veterans Forward is personal. As a veteran himself, he understands the struggles veterans face when they return home after service. Many of them, unfortunately, find themselves without a place to live or any support system to help them get back on their feet. That’s where Moving Veterans Forward comes in.
“Our goal is to provide homeless veterans with a furnished home,” Ron explained. “We don’t just hand them keys and say, ‘good luck.’ We provide them with everything they need to live comfortably—furniture, basic household supplies, and even a support system to help them transition from homelessness to stability.”
Moving Veterans Forward isn’t just about giving veterans a roof over their heads; it’s about giving them hope, dignity, and the tools they need to rebuild their lives. Ron and his team understand that veterans need more than just material possessions to thrive—they need emotional support, a sense of community, and a clear path to self-sufficiency. That’s why the organization goes the extra mile to offer wraparound services and other resources.
A Community Effort: How You Can Help
The success of Moving Veterans Forward is not just about Ron’s vision but also about the support from the local community. In our interview, Ron emphasized the importance of collaboration, saying, “The people of Papillion and the greater Omaha area have been incredible in supporting us. We rely heavily on donations of furniture, household items, and financial contributions, and the community has really come together to help our veterans.”
Donating to Moving Veterans Forward is one of the most impactful ways you can get involved. Whether you have gently used furniture, household items, or financial resources to contribute, your donation will directly benefit homeless veterans in need. As Ron said, “We take donations year-round, and every piece of furniture, every dollar, makes a real difference.”
If you’re interested in making a contribution, you can easily donate online by visiting Moving Veterans Forward’s donation page. Alternatively, you can stop by their main warehouse at 731 North Frontier Drive in Papillion on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 9 AM to lend a helping hand. The team is always looking for volunteers who are willing to help with furniture pickups, organization, and distribution.
Moving Veterans Forward’s Impact on the Community
The work that Moving Veterans Forward does is nothing short of life-changing. In fact, Ron shared several success stories during our conversation that brought a tear to my eye. From veterans who were living in their cars to those who had been on the streets for years, Moving Veterans Forward has helped countless men and women regain their independence and dignity.
“I remember one veteran who had been living in a shelter for months,” Ron recalled. “When we finally got him into a home, he broke down in tears. It wasn’t just about having a place to live—it was about having a future. It was about knowing that he wasn’t alone, and that people cared about him.”
These powerful moments of transformation are what drive the team at Moving Veterans Forward to continue their work. They know that their efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of veterans, and that’s what keeps them going, day after day.
Ron Hernandez: A Hero in Our Community
While Ron Hernandez is quick to deflect the hero label onto the veterans he serves, there’s no denying that he’s a hero in his own right. His leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the cause are an inspiration to all who know him. It takes a special person to dedicate their life to helping others, especially those who have been overlooked by society.
As we wrapped up the interview, I asked Ron what he hopes for the future of Moving Veterans Forward. His answer was simple yet powerful: “I want to see fewer veterans on the streets, and more veterans in homes—living healthy, happy lives, and contributing to the community.”
If you’re looking for a way to give back to those who have given so much, Moving Veterans Forward is a perfect place to start. Whether through a monetary donation, offering your time as a volunteer, or donating gently used household items, your support will directly impact the lives of veterans in need.
Final Thoughts: Make a Difference Today
Ron Hernandez and Moving Veterans Forward are proving every day that even small acts of kindness can create lasting change. As a community, we have the power to ensure that no veteran is left behind. So, if you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back and make a difference, consider supporting Moving Veterans Forward. Your contribution—whether big or small—will have a lasting impact on the lives of those who have served our country.
Learn more about how you can help by visiting Moving Veterans Forward’s donation page. Together, we can move veterans forward and give them the fresh start they deserve.
And hey, if you ever need any help or have questions I help Moving Veterans Forward every week so give me a call at 402-600-3006 or send me an email–let’s make a difference together!
