Community-Based Effort to Help Veterans in Northern Michigan
Veterans in Crisis (VIC) is a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit created to address the urgent needs of veterans across Northwest Lower Michigan.
Since 2016, VIC has successfully provided assistance to veterans facing a wide range of crises. From unexpected out-of-pocket medical expenses, to essential home repair – VIC has been there to help.
To qualify for assistance, an armed service veteran of any era need only to have been released from active duty or retired from the National Guard. VIC does not observe the Veterans Administration’s “peacetime” or “wartime” service periods, or apply a subjective combat service standard. If a veteran served honorably, we can help.
Our Difference
VIC Board of Directors
The Veterans in Crisis Board of Directors prides itself on responding to a veteran’s needs in the shortest time possible – in some cases releasing funds to address a crisis on the very same day.
The Board of Directors is comprised of a team of professionals from all walks of life within the Northern Michigan community. The diverse backgrounds and mix of veterans provides a unique opprtunity to problem solve and rely on connections within the community to provide aid and resources to veterans.
Stacyann Smith
Chairman, Navy
Charles Hamlyn
Vice-Chair, Marine
Chris Warren
Treasurer
Greg Tarrant
Secretary
Jim Sanborn
Board Member
Chad Brown
Board Member, Army
Tim Brick
Board Member
Rob Donnell
Board Member, USCG
Art Forster
Board Member, Air Force
Brad Mackler
Board Member
Josh Traeger
Board Member, Air Force
Shelly Murphy
Board Member, Army
Frequently asked questions
Every Veteran matters. Since 2016 we have successfully used a hand-up, rapid response approach to help those who have served their country. Men and women who served honorably in any branch of the armed forces and have been released from active duty or retired. VIC does not observe “peacetime” or “wartime” service periods.
When wartime heroes return home, often times the transition back to civilian life can be emotional and financially burdensome. Veteran’s In Crisis, Inc. organized a golf tournament to raise money annually for these veterans who are struggling financially. All of the proceeds from the annual golf tournament provide assistance to veterans in Northern Michigan.
Veteran assistance does not have to take forever. By the time people come to us the need has reached urgent status and we understand how important it is not only to resolve the financial burden, but to ease uncertainty. We are proud to arrange rapid response when it is needed most, often within 24 hours depending on the need.
We provide services to veterans throughout Northern Michigan who reside without our service area as shown in the map.
