Mighty Hero Homes
More Than a Home: How Mighty Hero Homes Builds Hope, Dignity, and Community for Veterans
In a nation that proudly honors its military, the persistent issue of veteran homelessness remains a deep and painful contradiction. While many organizations offer shelter, one Georgia-based non-profit is proving that the solution requires more than just four walls and a roof. It requires a foundation of hope, dignity, and community.
We sat down with the team at Mighty Hero Homes (MHH) to explore their unique "hand up, not a handout" model and understand the full journey of a veteran reclaiming their life.
A Journey Built on Stability
For Mighty Hero Homes, the mission is to provide "Hope, Dignity, Purpose, and Possibilities" through affordable, permanent housing. But how does a veteran go from application to a transformed life?
It begins with a careful, third-party screening process to ensure applicants are prepared for what MHH calls "cooperative independent living." This isn't merely about need; it's about readiness for a fresh start. The vetting considers mental and physical health, substance dependency history, and income status.
"The goal is to set everyone up for long-term success," said Drew Walston, Founder & CEO. "We're building a community, and that requires everyone to be committed to the process."
The Power of a Welcoming Community
The work of Mighty Hero Homes is deeply reliant on community partnerships. A powerful example is their OPERATION: “Home for the Holidays” campaign, which is building the Alton Head House in McDonough, GA. This public-private partnership brings together the city government, the local American Legion Post, and local businesses.
But the support continues after the last nail is hammered. Through their "Welcome Home Mighty Hero" program, a local church or civic group "adopts" the veteran.
"These community partners provide a stocked pantry, linens, and all the essential household items," Walston shared. "More importantly, they welcome the veteran into the community, inviting them to events and surrounding them with new neighbors and friends committed to their success. It’s about ensuring they are seen and valued."
Measuring Success Beyond a Roof
For MHH, success isn’t just tracked by the number of homes built, but by the lasting impact on both the veterans and their communities.
Walston explained that, "We look for key indicators: Are our residents contributing through employment or volunteer service? Are there healthy, frequent interactions between them and the community? We see a mutual transformation. Veterans find purpose and belonging, and communities are enriched by the strength and resilience of those who have served. When a Mighty Hero Home is built, it’s not just a house—it’s a bridge."
The Story of Randy: From Hidden Encampment to Home for the Holidays
This transformation is best illustrated by the story of U.S. Army Veteran Randy Arnold. A Vietnam-era medic, Randy was found living in a homeless encampment hidden in the woods behind a busy South Atlanta shopping center.
"When we met Randy, he had no identification, no DD-214, no income, and no address," Walston recounted. "His journey has been filled with hardship—he’s been robbed, beaten, and even recovered from major surgery without a home."
But his story is changing. Thanks to community support, Randy was placed in temporary shelter while MHH worked to secure his permanent home. We are proud to announce that Randy’s new home, The Alton Head House, will have its ribbon-cutting ceremony on December 23, 2025—ensuring he is truly home for the holidays.
Randy’s story is just the beginning. In early 2026, MHH plans to welcome 11 more veterans with similar stories to their American Legion Post 516 campus.
The Greatest Challenge and How You Can Help
The single greatest obstacle to replicating Randy’s success? Funding.
"Despite billions of dollars and countless dedicated professionals, veteran homelessness has seen little improvement over the past decade," Walston stated. "We believe lasting change begins with stability. Once housed, our veterans are empowered to rediscover their purpose and become motivated, relied-upon community members."
For those moved to help, Mighty Hero Homes has two clear calls to action:
- They are seeking corporate partners and mission-driven investors ready to help shape a future where no veteran is left behind.
- They are calling on 1,000,000 Americans to join a grassroots movement with a $7 monthly donation.
Walston explained that "This united front would fully fund the construction of four complete Mighty Hero Home Bases every year. The return on investment is immeasurable. Our veterans, once given stability, can be trained, equipped, and deployed once more—not to the battlefield, but to positively impact their communities."
Watch this short video to learn more about the veterans Mighty Hero Homes serves and the transformative work they do.
The organization is working hard to end veteran homelessness. "Together, we can build more than homes. We can build hope."
To learn more about Mighty Hero Homes and how you can support their mission, visit their website or follow them on social media @MightyHeroHomes.