Larry’s Story: A Ride That Changed Everything

At 77 years old, Larry—a disabled Vietnam Air Force Veteran —was struggling silently. He had recently undergone a toe amputation due to diabetes. Living alone with no family nearby, he missed a critical follow-up appointment simply because he had no way to get there.

Two weeks had passed. The bandages needed to be changed. The risk of infection was growing. A concerned podiatry nurse from the clinic sent out a desperate plea for help.

Thanks to our Blue Star Fund partner Qualified Listeners, help came quickly.

They not only scheduled a ride for Larry to get his wound cared for—they also arranged transportation for all his future checkups. But to Larry, this was more than just a ride. It was a reminder that he wasn’t forgotten.

This is the power of community. This is the impact made possible by your generosity.

Because of you, McKee Wellness Foundation is able to invest in Veteran-centered programs that save lives, restore dignity, and build bridges to wellness.

McKee Wellness Foundation believes supporting our Veterans means more than offering thanks—it means stepping up when it counts. Through our 2025 Blue Star Fund, we are proud to invest $33,500 in targeted grants to four incredible nonprofit partners who serve Veterans with integrity, compassion, and consistency.

Together, these programs will impact 487 Veterans across Larimer and Weld Counties in 2025. Each one carries forward our mission to bridge the gaps in health and wellness.

Aspire – Supporting Veterans Where They Live

Aspire, the service provider for Loveland Housing Authority, provides a vital safety net for low-income and previously homeless Veterans living in affordable housing. Through a dedicated Veteran-focused Resident Service Coordinator, Aspire meets individuals where they are—with compassion, resource navigation, and practical support.

With this year’s $7,500 Blue Star grant, Aspire will assist 50 Veterans with essential daily living needs, healthcare costs, transportation, and wellness services. Their approach ensures that Veterans not only stay housed but also feel supported and connected in their journey toward stability.

Qualified Listeners – Bridging the Gaps with Compassion

As Larry’s story shows, transportation can be the difference between decline and recovery. Qualified Listeners is a trusted Veteran-serving organization offering listening, outreach, resource referrals, and emergency relief.

This year’s grant supports two critical initiatives:

• The Disabled Transportation Program, aiming to serve 310 Veterans in 2025
• The Veteran Relief Program, providing urgent financial assistance for 90 Veterans

These programs are more than services—they are lifelines, connecting Veterans to the care and compassion they’ve earned through their service.

Health4Heroes – Taking Command of Health and Hope

A powerful new addition to the Blue Star family, Health4Heroes is addressing health disparities by helping Veterans and their families “Take Command” of their physical and mental well-being.

With a $6,000 grant, they’ll provide 24 Veterans with health scholarships covering:

• Chiropractic care
• Acupuncture
• Gym memberships
• Mental health services
• And more, depending on individual needs

This program breaks down financial barriers and offers a customizable path to wellness, built on the belief that everyone deserves access to healing.

Healing Warriors Program – A Pathway to Peace

Healing Warriors has long led the charge in providing non-narcotic care for Veterans facing PTSD, chronic pain, and trauma. Their holistic services include acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, Healing Touch, and now, an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program.

With a $10,000 grant, Healing Warriors will serve 13 Veterans with tools and therapies that empower them to manage stress, reduce symptoms, and build long-term resilience. Their work is helping to change the narrative on Veteran suicide—proving that healing is possible, and hope is real.

Veteran Wellness Is Community Wellness

Behind every number is a neighbor. Behind every grant is a Veteran like Larry—someone who served our country and now needs our care.

The Blue Star Veteran Fund reflects our deepest belief: that honoring Veterans must come with action. Whether through transportation, personalized care, housing support, or emotional healing, these grants ensure that Veterans across Northern Colorado are not just remembered—they are lifted up, empowered, and cared for.

And it’s all possible because of you.

Because of the compassion, commitment, and continued generosity of our donors, McKee Wellness Foundation is able to invest in healing pathways for those who’ve given so much.
We’re proud to stand beside them.
We’re proud to stand beside you.

Thank you for showing our Veterans that they are never alone.

To learn more about the Blue Star Fund or to support our work, click here.