Two of our home patients, both proud veterans nearing end of life, expressed a heartfelt desire to receive a veteran pinning ceremony. These requests came with little time to spare. Recognizing the importance of honoring their service while they were still able to experience the moment, our team immediately sprang into action.

Within hours, plans were set in motion. Volunteer Coordinator Rick quickly coordinated meaningful ceremonies, complete with refreshments and thoughtful details that transformed living rooms into spaces of honor and recognition. What made these moments even more special was who performed the pinning — fellow soldiers and loved ones whose presence carried deep personal significance for each patient.

In one ceremony, the family shared that their loved one had never been formally thanked for his military service. For them, this became the only true recognition he had ever received. The gratitude and emotion in the room were profound. The ceremony provided not only closure, but a lasting memory of dignity and appreciation that the family will carry with them forever.

In the second situation, the patient passed away very shortly after the ceremony. The family later expressed deep thankfulness that the team moved with such urgency. They had not believed it would be possible to organize something so meaningful so quickly. Because our team showed up without hesitation, this final wish was fulfilled in time — creating a moment of peace, pride and connection during an incredibly difficult chapter.

These experiences are powerful reminders that hospice care is not only about managing symptoms — it is about honoring lives, listening to what matters most and acting with purpose when time is limited. It is about showing up with urgency, heart and intention.

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Many veterans and their families are not aware of the hospice services and benefits available to them, including the Medicare Hospice Benefit. By partnering with We Honor Veterans, ɫɫ��Ƶ helps increase awareness, improve access to care and provide specialized support tailored to the unique experiences of those who served in our military.

What Is We Honor Veterans?

We Honor Veterans is a national hospice provider awareness campaign led by the National Alliance for Care at Home in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The program is designed specifically to support veterans facing serious or life-limiting illness and to connect them with hospice and palliative care services that address their unique needs.

Through this partnership, ɫɫ��Ƶ is pleased to recognize the service of our nation’s veterans while helping ensure they receive the care, support and benefits available to them.

Why We Honor Veterans Matters

Veterans often face unique health challenges related to their military service, including chronic illness, service-related injuries and complex emotional or mental health needs. Hospice teams trained through We Honor Veterans are better equipped to understand military culture, recognize service-related health concerns and provide care that honors each veteran’s life and service.

The We Honor Veterans program helps hospice organizations focus on promoting veteran-centric educational activities, increasing capacity to serve veterans, developing strategic partnerships and increasing access while improving quality of care for veterans and their families.

Raising Awareness of Hospice Benefits for Veterans

Education is a key focus of We Honor Veterans. Many veterans are unaware that hospice services are often covered under the Medicare Hospice Benefit and may also work alongside certain VA benefits.

By helping veterans and families understand their options, ɫɫ��Ƶ helps ensure veterans can access the comfort, dignity and support they have earned through their service.

Honoring Service Through Veteran Pinning Ceremonies

One meaningful way ɫɫ��Ƶ participates in We Honor Veterans is through Veteran Pinning Ceremonies. These ceremonies recognize and honor the service of veterans while creating a special moment for veterans and their loved ones.

Pinning ceremonies may be held as a larger event for friends and family, or as a simple bedside ceremony based on the veteran’s wishes. During the ceremony, words of gratitude and honor are shared and a commemorative pin is presented.

These ceremonies often provide veterans and families with a powerful moment of recognition, reflection and pride in their service.

ɫɫ��Ƶ’s Veterans Front and Center Initiative

In addition to participation in We Honor Veterans, ɫɫ��Ƶ reinforces its commitment through its own Veterans Front and Center initiative.

At ɫɫ��Ƶ, we believe caring for veterans is a privilege and an honor, and that the unique physical, mental and emotional care needs of those who have served must remain front and center in our philosophy of care.

Through Veterans Front and Center, ɫɫ��Ƶ provides comprehensive, compassionate care, support and specialized programs designed to meet the unique needs of veterans and their families. This includes understanding military culture, recognizing service-related conditions and ensuring veterans receive personalized care that reflects their experiences and values.

Our Ongoing Commitment to Veterans and Their Families

Through We Honor Veterans and Veterans Front and Center, ɫɫ��Ƶ remains dedicated to recognizing military service, increasing awareness of care services and providing specialized end-of-life care designed specifically for veterans.

We are honored to serve those who served our country and remain committed to ensuring every veteran receives the dignity, respect and compassionate care they deserve. Contact us to learn more.

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Across the country, one in four Americans nearing end of life is a Veteran. This powerful truth reflects how deeply military service shapes the communities we serve — and the lives of the patients and families who trust us with their care. At ɫɫ��Ƶ, we recognize the profound responsibility that comes with supporting these individuals. Our commitment to veteran-centered care is woven into everything we do, and our partnership with the (WHV) program is a cornerstone of that promise.

This commitment was especially evident during James’ recent Veteran Pinning Ceremony. Ginger Veal, Veteran Program Manager, reflected, one of the most moving moments came at the end of the ceremony when James — surrounded by more than 20 of his family members — shared his appreciation for the recognition. With humility and emotion, he reminded everyone that “the true honor belongs to those who did not come back from Vietnam.”

The day became a celebration of his life and service. Six ɫɫ��Ƶ team members joined James’ loved ones to share food, fellowship and watch football. His memorabilia and medals were proudly displayed, giving family and staff the chance to reflect on his legacy. Moments like these capture the heart of the WHV program — honoring service, fostering connection and ensuring every veteran feels seen, respected, and valued.

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At ɫɫ��Ƶ, our volunteers offer more than their time — they bring heart, experience and a commitment to caring for others. Among these remarkable individuals is Lori, a U.S. Army veteran, mother and local barber whose compassion has made a lasting difference for the patients she serves.

For Lori, volunteering is more than a commitment — it’s a calling. She uses her skills to create meaningful moments of connection and dignity. What may look like a simple haircut often becomes a powerful act of care. On Veterans Day morning, Lori traveled an hour each way to provide a haircut and shave to an Air Force veteran who had not left his home in more than three years, making her visit profoundly significant.

Reflecting on her experience, Lori shared that volunteering as a barber with ɫɫ��Ƶ has been one of the most meaningful experiences of her life. “As a veteran myself, I understand what simple acts of care and connection can mean, especially to those who have served our country or who may feel isolated. Providing haircuts is more than just grooming; it’s a chance to restore dignity, spark conversation and bring a sense of normalcy and comfort to someone’s day,” she said.

Misty A., Volunteer Coordinator, shares that Lori’s impact extends far beyond the barber chair. With 17 years of U.S. Army service, two children and her own barber shop, Lori brings a rare blend of discipline, warmth and generosity to her hospice volunteer work. Misty adds, “Lori reminds us that compassion can be hands-on, and that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off; it simply takes on new meaning.”

Lori’s story is a powerful reminder that service doesn’t end when military duty does. We are deeply grateful for veteran volunteers like Lori who continue to serve others through the gift of volunteering.

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In recognition of Veterans Day, elementary students in Jackson, Michigan, teamed up with ɫɫ��Ƶ to bring heartfelt appreciation to local veterans through the Game Changers program — an initiative that encourages kindness and community involvement among young learners.

This special collaboration was sparked by Liz W., director of ancillary services at ɫɫ��Ƶ. When Liz received a message from her children’s school about its Veterans Day card project, she immediately saw an opportunity to connect the students’ efforts with ɫɫ��Ƶ’s veteran patients and volunteers.

“When the message from my kids’ school went out asking if we knew any veterans for cards they were making for Veterans Day, I knew we had some patients and volunteers who would love to receive them. The students made pictures and cards for all branches of the armed services. It was amazing to see their creations.”

To bring the idea to life, Liz partnered with Evie B., Elara volunteer program coordinator, who coordinated with Tanya R., the Game Changers lead mentor. Together, they ensured the students’ thoughtful cards and artwork reached ɫɫ��Ƶ’s veteran patients and volunteers, offering moments of joy and gratitude for their service.

This project reflects the impact of teamwork, creativity and community engagement — values that continue to guide ɫɫ��Ƶ’s work across the communities we serve. Thank you to Liz, Evie and the students and staff of the Game Changers program for making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our nation.

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That’s why ɫɫ��Ƶ offers veteran-centric care. BRAVE is a specialized PTSD recovery program designed to meet the distinct care needs of combat veterans, while also providing comprehensive support through our skilled home health, behavioral health and hospice service lines.

The BRAVE Program: Supporting Veterans in Their Journey Home

BRAVE is an interactive, trauma-informed program that focuses on helping veterans recover from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and adjust to life after service.

This program targets the unique needs of combat veterans by addressing:

• The transition to home and community life.
• Medication adherence and health system navigation.
• Access to community supports and resources.

BRAVE uses evidence-based tools, pre- and post-assessments and personalized action plans developed by specially trained behavioral health nurses.

Key Benefits of BRAVE:

• 24/7/365 availability so support is always within reach
• Early intervention before emotional decline becomes a crisis
• Interactive workbook and guided action plans
• A focus on physical, mental and emotional healing
• Encouragement for veterans to define their own path forward after combat

Skilled Home Health: Restoring Strength and Independence

ɫɫ��Ƶ’s skilled home health services help veterans recover safely at home after illness, injury or surgery. Our nurses, therapists and aides deliver personalized clinical care designed to restore strength, promote independence and support overall wellness.

For veterans, home health care can play a vital role in bridging the gap between hospital discharge and full recovery—particularly for those managing chronic conditions or complex medication schedules.

Our skilled teams help veterans:

• Regain mobility and physical function through rehabilitation.
• Manage medications effectively and safely.
• Improve nutrition and symptom control.
• Coordinate with VA or community-based services for ongoing support.

By meeting veterans where they are, physically and emotionally, our clinicians help them achieve meaningful recovery in the comfort of home.

Behavioral Health: Healing the Invisible Wounds

Many veterans face emotional and psychological challenges that can linger long after their service ends. ɫɫ��Ƶ’s behavioral health services provide compassionate, trauma-informed support for veterans dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression and other behavioral health conditions.

Our behavioral health nurses specialize in crisis prevention, emotional regulation and connection to community resources. Through ongoing collaboration and consistent care, they help veterans build coping strategies and develop tools for long-term well-being.

Hospice: Honoring Veterans at the End of Life

At the end of life, veterans deserve care that honors their service, respects their experiences and provides comfort for both them and their families.

ɫɫ��Ƶ’s hospice services ensure that veterans receive compassionate medical care, emotional support and spiritual guidance tailored to their needs.

Our hospice teams:

• Deliver expert pain and symptom management.
• Provide trauma-informed emotional and spiritual support.
• Offer veteran-to-veteran companionship and recognition ceremonies.
• Support families through grief, legacy projects and counseling resources.

Supporting Veteran Family Caregivers

Behind every veteran is a caregiver offering love, time, and dedication. ɫɫ��Ƶ provides education and resources to help family caregivers understand PTSD, manage stress and maintain their own health and wellbeing.

Our teams guide caregivers in:

• Recognizing signs of emotional distress.
• Building coping skills for daily caregiving.
• Accessing community and respite resources.
• Creating shared care goals that promote family stability and healing.

A Lasting Commitment to Veterans and Their Families

Through our BRAVE program, as part of our skilled home health, behavioral health, and hospice services, ɫɫ��Ƶ is committed to delivering care that honors the courage and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.

Every veteran’s story is different. At ɫɫ��Ƶ, we listen first, then deliver the care and compassion they deserve.

If you or a loved one is a veteran in need of support, ɫɫ��Ƶ is here.

Find your local branch and contact us today.

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A Veteran-Centered Approach to Care

BRAVE is structured to foster meaningful conversations, promote healing across all dimensions—physical, mental, emotional and spiritual—and uphold the dignity of veterans throughout their hospice experience. The program is committed to honoring veterans by helping them navigate PTSD and end-of-life challenges with understanding and specialized support.

Comprehensive Support and Resources

One of the standout features of BRAVE is its interactive veteran and family guide and resource booklet. This guide is designed to encourage open communication, helping veterans and their loved ones cope with the emotional and practical aspects of PTSD and end-of-life care. It provides educational resources that outline practical ways to:

• Cope with PTSD symptoms
• Connect with loved ones and caregivers
• Communicate personal needs and feelings effectively

By emphasizing quality of life, BRAVE ensures that veterans can focus on the people, activities and personal tasks that hold the most significance to them.

24/7/365 Support – Call Us First

One of the most reassuring aspects of BRAVE is its constant availability. Veterans and their families can access care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, easing anxiety by ensuring that help is always within reach.

A Specialized Team for Personalized Care

ɫɫ��Ƶ’s BRAVE program is delivered by a dedicated team of professionals, each trained to meet the specific needs of veterans facing PTSD and end-of-life challenges. The team includes:

• Physicians who oversee medical care and pain management
• Nurses who provide compassionate health monitoring and support
• Chaplains who offer spiritual guidance and comfort
• Aides who assist with daily care needs
• Volunteers who bring companionship and additional support
• Social Workers who help with emotional and practical concerns

Learn More About BRAVE and Hospice Care

If you or a loved one is a veteran in need of hospice care that prioritizes PTSD support and dignity, ɫɫ��Ƶ can help. To learn more, contact your local hospice team or send us an email to connect with our staff.

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Brian, ɫɫ��Ƶ M&A Integration Director, and Mr. Nalle

ɫɫ��Ƶ was proud to sponsor the 103rd birthday celebration of Tuskegee Flight Officer Russell C. Nalle, Jr. on August 30, 2024.

The celebration included the Detroit Chapter Tuskegee Airmen, the Michigan Air National Guard, the American Legion, host Danto Health and a special call with well wishes from the U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Born in 1921, Mr. Nalle was one of the heroic Tuskegee Airmen who served during World War II. He answered the call to duty in 1944, serving with the 477th Bombardment Group.

The Tuskegee Airmen were more than just pilots and flight crew members; they were pioneers. Breaking barriers in a segregated military, they showcased unparalleled skill and bravery. As Mr. Nalle once said in a news interview, “We knew we had to be twice as good to get half the credit. But that didn’t deter us… It fueled us.”

Recognizing Mr. Nalle and his incredible service was an honor for the ɫɫ��Ƶ team and is a reflection of Elara’s Front & Center commitment to veterans. Through Front & Center, we aim to honor, care for and build trust with veterans and military families through compassionate and comprehensive in-home care services, strategic partnerships and valued career opportunities.

Learn more about Front & Center and how Elara supports veterans in the communities we serve.

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We offer Front and Center programs throughout our continuum of care: personal care services, skilled home health, behavioral health and hospice care.

Personal Care ɫɫ��Ƶ 

Operation Veteran Care provides in-home assistance and home care for veterans. We focus on help with activities of daily living, home safety and personal care. In addition, our Heroes Helping Heroes initiative offers a paid opportunity to veterans to care for fellow veterans. We believe veterans can understand the needs of other veterans in ways that no one else can.

Skilled Home Health and Behavioral Health 

ɫɫ��Ƶ is an authorized VA Home Health Provider. Navigating the VA process can be complicated and cumbersome. Our teams in cities where VA hospitals exist can act as partners for veterans, physicians and families as they work to connect veterans to the care they entitled to.

BRAVE is our in-home PTSD recovery program targeting the unique care needs of combat veterans including the transition to home life, medication adherence, navigation of the greater health system and connections to community supports.

PTSD Recovery services are offered in both skilled home health and behavioral health care.

Hospice Care 

For veterans suffering from PTSD and also facing end of life, our BRAVE hospice program creates a caring journey for veterans and their families through PTSD and end of life. PTSD can complicate the end of life process for veterans. The process of dying is a challenge for anyone to face, but especially when PTSD is a factor. It is a battle of sorts, and an experience that can trigger combat-like or combat-related stress. Acknowledging the impact PTSD may have for veterans and their loved ones is an important step in mitigating those effects.

Our hospice care teams also participate in the We Honor Veterans program which provides educational tools and resources to promote veteran-centric educational activities, increase our capacity to serve veterans, and increase access to care and improve quality. We Honor Veterans also facilitates veteran pinning ceremonies as an opportunity for us to spotlight a veteran’s service.

We are committed to serving, honoring and elevating care for those who have served.

Contact your local care team to learn more about Front and Center and how ɫɫ��Ƶ can help you or your loved one.

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“I work for some splendid veterans around my community and it has been a fantastic experience for me. They are special people and they’ve done so much for us. It makes me extremely happy to feel that I have done something for them in return. I am truly blessed to be part of the Elara team.” – Anna, PCA

Veterans have unique care needs, physically and emotionally, that only other veterans can understand. That’s why we are seeking veterans who want to provide in-home support to other veterans.

What is Heroes Helping Heroes?

Heroes Helping Heroes offers a paid opportunity to help other veterans in need. Team members with Heroes Helping Heroes provide personal care services wherever veterans call home.

What are personal care services?

Personal care services team members assist clients with activities of daily living to make life easier and help them stay independent. Personal care services can provide the extra layer of support that clients need to remain safe at home.

What activities can personal care services assist with?

ɫɫ��Ƶ’s personal care services can provide in-home support with:

• Bathing & bathroom tasks
• Dressing/grooming
• Exercising
• Transferring & ambulation
• Meal preparation & feeding
• Companionship
• Medication reminders
• Laundry or light housekeeping
• Errands & grocery shopping

How are Heroes Helping Heroes team members paid for their time?

Caregiving through ɫɫ��Ƶ’s personal care services is a full- or part-time paid opportunity. Funding typically comes from a veteran’s VA Benefits, but it may also be covered by Medicaid, insurance or sometimes private pay. Programs vary based on your area.

How do I join Heroes Helping Heroes?

Contact our Talent Acquisition team at recruiting@elara.com or apply online today!

I am a veteran interested in receiving care. How can I sign up?

You can reach our dedicated veteran care team at 844.VAElara (844.823.5272) or VetCare@elara.com.

ɫɫ��Ƶ also provides skilled home health, behavioral health and hospice care. Contact us today for more information.

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“Anna has been fantastic to say the least. She communicates with me on everything. She cares about us. We care about her. I would recommend them [ɫɫ��Ƶ] for anybody because they are going to bust their back to try and do everything they can to make sure we are all always taken care of. I appreciate them.” – Tim, veteran client

Caring for our nation’s veterans is a privilege and an honor. At ɫɫ��Ƶ, we put the unique physical, mental and emotional care needs of those who have served FRONT and CENTER to our organization’s philosophy of care.

That’s why we created Operation Veteran Care.

What is Operation Veteran Care?

Operation Veteran Care is ɫɫ��Ƶ’s personal care services program specifically for veterans. The program provides veteran-centric in-home assistance with a focus on help with activities of daily living, home safety and personal care.

What are personal care services?

Personal care services team members assist clients with activities of daily living to make life easier and help them stay independent wherever they call home. Personal care services can provide the extra layer of support that you or your loved one needs to remain safe at home.

What activities can personal care services assist with?

ɫɫ��Ƶ’s personal care services can provide in-home support with:

• Bathing/dressing
• Bathroom and grooming tasks
• Shopping/errands
• Meal preparation
• Light housekeeping
• Laundry
• Transferring to wheelchair/bed

How do veterans pay for personal care services?

Personal care services are typically covered by your VA Benefits, but may also be covered by Medicaid, insurance or sometimes private pay. We can work with your local agencies to seek approval and evaluate your needs to determine coverages available to you. Programs vary based on your area.

How do I learn more about Operation Veteran Care and personal care services in my home?

You can reach our dedicated veteran care team at 844.VAElara (844.823.5272) or VetCare@elara.com.

Interested in caring for individuals in your community? Learn more about careers at ɫɫ��Ƶ.

ɫɫ��Ƶ also provides skilled home health, behavioral health and hospice care. Contact us today for more information.

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