Serving those who served
In this newest episode, host Mary Ann LeRay sits down with Nicole Jenkins, Veteran Service Officer, and Chad Day, Veteran Services Driver, to explore the vital work happening through Jones County Veteran Services. With roughly 10% of Jones County's population being veterans—and even more when you include their families, spouses, and caretakers—this office serves as a critical bridge between our local heroes and the resources they've earned.
Nicole and Chad shine a light on what makes Jones County's approach unique, particularly in our rural setting. The transportation program, born from recognizing that veterans were missing crucial medical and counseling appointments, has become a lifeline. Chad travels everywhere from Wilmington to Durham, averaging 2-3 trips per week, ensuring veterans can access the care they need without worrying about how to get there. It's one-stop shopping with a personal touch, as Nicole describes it—serving as the middleman between veterans and "big VA" to help them secure pension, compensation, educational benefits, and more.
But the conversation goes beyond services to reveal an important gap: the need for civilian community involvement. While veterans naturally show up for veteran events, building bridges between the veteran and civilian communities remains a challenge. Nicole's vision for 2026 includes monthly "coffee and connections" gatherings starting in January, a veterans to farmers program, and expanded housing assistance—all designed to tap into veterans' natural volunteer spirit while creating meaningful connections across our community.
This episode reminds us that supporting veterans isn't just about benefits and programs—it's about integration, recognition, and building a community where those who served can thrive alongside their neighbors.
