The Power of a Veteran Leading with Humility
Leading with humility means recognizing that growth comes from both our strengths and our struggles. Each year, veterans adapt to new challenges, learn from one another, and find ways to move forward either through leading or asking for help.
After serving nearly a decade in the U.S. Navy as a Weapons Technician, Imani thought she had every detail mapped out for her move from San Diego to New York. But when a family housing arrangement suddenly fell through, her plan unraveled. While juggling school, she found herself without stable housing and rotated between friends’ couches and her car.
In that moment, Imani chose humility. She reached out to fellow veterans, who connected her to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) and ultimately to Services for the UnderServed (S:US). From her first meeting with S:US, our Veterans Services team became a lifeline in helping her navigate the city’s rental market, secure an affordable apartment in Coney Island, and access to essentials like kitchenware, winter coats, and gift cards. S:US also connected her to job readiness programs, résumé support, and a network of peers who understood the challenges of transitioning to civilian life.
Today, Imani has a home she loves, a supportive network, and confidence in her path toward a career in business administration. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help,” she shared, “There are people out there who want to see you succeed.”
Imani’s story reminds us that leading with humility often begins with vulnerability and with the courage to admit that we cannot do it alone. By leaning on her community and allowing others to support her, Imani has built a stronger foundation for the future.
This success story was made possible through a generous grant from the Bob Woodruff Foundation, with funding from Craig Newmark Philanthropies, which enables S:US to expand our support services for service members, veterans, and their families across New York City and Long Island. We’re proud to be a member of the Bob Woodruff Foundation’s #GotYour6 Network and thank them for helping us continue this critical work.
