THE HISTORY OF INDY VET TO VET INC

The Story of Indy Vet To Vet Incorporated
Veterans Serving Veterans – Healing Together, Growing Forward

INDY VET TO VET INC was born from a simple but powerful idea: veterans understand veterans best. Founded BY VETERANS FOR VETERANS, the organization exists to support service members as they navigate life after the military. The mission is clear: to create a space where veterans can connect, heal, and grow by unlearning the habits and mindsets ingrained during military service that may no longer serve them, and embracing healthier ways to live in civilian life.

The roots of Indy Vet To Vet Inc trace back to 2016, when a small but impactful veteran-only peer support meeting began taking place every Friday morning, an hour before Indy Vet Court. Except for a brief pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, that Friday meeting has been a constant in the lives of many veterans seeking connection and understanding.

By July 2021, momentum and demand had grown. With a desire to expand and formalize their efforts, a dedicated group of veterans established Indy Vet To Vet Inc, launching additional WEEKLY PEER-LED SUPPORT GROUPS across Indianapolis. These included Tuesday evening meetings at Pinnacle West which began in January of 2021, Wednesday night gatherings at HVAF's Veterans Villa started in July of 2021, and Monday morning sessions at Brandon Hall was our final expansion of 2021 through a partnership with Volunteers of America. Last but not least, Thursday evening meetings began at Lincoln Apartments on September 11th of 2024, an apartment complex specifically designed to house veterans and their families, bringing the total number of weekly meetings to five.

Indy Vet To Vet Inc also recognizes the importance of joy, recreation, and community. The organization hosts a monthly KARAOKE NIGHT on the first Tuesday of each month, an outreach event that has continued for four years straight, and began its popular recreational KAYAKING AND FISHING EVENT in the summer of 2021. Held on the third Saturday of each month, the kayaking events offer a chance for veterans to unwind and reconnect with nature and one another.

At all of our events, our goal is to create a welcoming, inclusive, and judgment-free environment, one where there are no expectations or pressures. We simply want veterans to enjoy themselves and feel supported as they focus on their personal growth. We recognize that every veteran’s journey is unique, and we’re committed to offering encouragement and assistance in a way that respects their individual path without interfering.  We want to emphasize that all of our services are completely free for veterans and their families, making it easier for everyone to participate. At our 20+ monthly events, we intentionally decline donations; we believe that spending meaningful time with each veteran is far more important. Instead, we seek support through other channels so we can keep our focus where it truly matters. 

On June 22 of 2023, Indy Vet To Vet Inc officially became a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, cementing its commitment to sustainability and growth. For years, the organization's work was self-funded by the facilitators and volunteers involved. However, in recent years, generous support from the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs has enabled Indy Vet To Vet to grow even further. First through the Governor's Challenge Grant (2024–2025), and now with the Grants for Veterans Services (2025–2026), these vital partnerships have allowed the organization to reach more veterans and broaden its impact.

For nearly a decade, our core value has remained the same: SHOWING UP NO MATTER WHAT. We understand that veterans have often been let down by empty promises, and we refuse to be part of that cycle. Instead, we are committed to earning trust through honesty, transparency, and accountability in everything we do. Looking ahead, Indy Vet To Vet Inc remains steadfast in its mission to create spaces of healing, camaraderie, and growth. With the help of dedicated volunteers and community partners, the organization is eager to welcome more veterans, expand its programs, and continue the journey of transformation...TOGETHER!