From 2006 to 2010, Leslie Vanover served as an administrative clerk for the United States Marine Corps.

“I was living in a small town and I wanted to experience life,” Leslie said. “It was a really great time.”

Because she gained she gained so many skills in the Marines,  she earned many credits for her Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Human Resources.

This past summer, however, Leslie faced eviction and had nowhere for her and her children to live.

“I didn’t know what I was going to do,” Leslie said.

She had heard of Indianapolis’ HVAF – a non profit that serves veterans – and decided to call and see if she qualified to receive assistance. They told her yes, and they went to work immediately to find her a new home.

In one month, she was able to move her family into a three-bedroom, Ranch-style home on the southwest side of Indianapolis!

In between calling HVAF for help and moving into her home, Leslie worked closely with case managers Will Najera (Housing Coordinator) and Dorian LaMotte (Prevention Coordinator). First, they fought for her landlord to allow her to stay at her apartment longer so she had more time to move into her house. Second, they found the right people to work with her – as she did not have the best credit and had a prior eviction.

“Leslie was always flexible and willing to hear Will and I out when it came to housing options,” Dorian said.

Both Dorian and Will said she was a very hard working mother, committed to taking great care of her children. For example, she has a special needs child with cerebral palsy, whom she takes care of 24/7.

“Leslie was very understanding and open minded when it came to the housing search,” Will said. “Her mother’s love is the fuel that enables her children to do the impossible.”

Now, a few months moved and settled in, Leslie says they love their new home. Leslie says she and her family are grateful there is a non profit in Indianapolis that can serve veterans and their families. Meanwhile, she is in her third year of college, and plans to earn her Bachelor’s Degree next year.

“Life’s been really good living here. I don’t have any complaints,” Leslie said. “I am happy that I have a place to live, for me and my kids.”