Jeffrey M. Young aka "Gunny"
Founder and CEO
Jeffrey M. Young - Founder, Veterans Helping Veterans and Their Communities. Jeffrey M. Young's journey of service and giving back began in his childhood, where his mother's dedication to community outreach ignited his own passion to help others. At age 17, he enlisted in the Marine Corps, serving with honor and distinction for 17 years. As a well-decorated E7 Gunnery Sergeant, Jeffrey retired from the Marines after a distinguished career. Today he dedicates his life to supporting Veterans and their Families, to ensure that those who served are provided the support and resources they deserve. His unwavering commitment continues to drive the mission in helping Veterans and uplifting their communities.
.jpg)
Sharon L. Dabney
aka "Top"
Chairperson of the Board/Investors
​
Sharon, a retired Master Sergeant and highly decorated Army Veteran with over 30 years of education and experience, remains dedicated to serving Veterans and their families, drawing from her own experiences in and out of uniform. With a wealth of knowledge, credentials and passion she focuses on the development and well-being of others. Her strengths as a diversity team builder, critical thinker and staff training developer shine through in her work, emphasizing resiliency effective coping strategies. Sharon believes in empowering veterans by reminding them of the tremendous value they contribute to society.
Ebony Grant
President
Ebony Grant, a driven leader and dedicated advocate for veterans, has built a remarkable career empowering those who have served in the military. As the president of Veterans Helping Veterans in Their Communities, Ebony's work is deeply rooted in her passion for giving back to those who sacrificed for their country. With her foundation in education at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, she honed her leadership skills during her undergraduate years. Her commitment to lifelong learning took her to the University of Cincinnati for graduate studies, where she expanded her expertise and vision.
For the past 15 years, Ebony has excelled in operations, bringing a wealth of knowledge and organizational skill to every role she has taken on. Her expertise in managing complex systems and driving positive change is not just a testament to her professional acumen but also to her devotion to improving lives within the veteran community. Through her leadership, Veterans Helping Veterans has grown into a beacon of hope, offering critical resources, mentorship, and support for veterans adjusting to civilian life. Ebony's unwavering dedication continues to transform the lives of those she serves, bridging gaps and building stronger, more resilient communities.
L. Dawn Winfield
Executive Advisor
As an Executive Advisor, L. Dawn brings strategic insight, leadership experience, and a deep commitment to advancing the mission of VHVATC. With a strong background in nonprofit leadership, business development, and community engagement, she provides high-level guidance to support organizational growth, sustainability, and impact. Known for thoughtful counsel and a collaborative approach, L. Dawn Winfield helps shape key initiatives and strengthen partnerships that serve the organization’s long-term vision.
Thania P. Casseus
Secretary
Thania is a dedicated and detail-oriented professional serving as the Board Secretary for VHVATC. With a strong background in administration and governance, Thania ensures the efficient operation of board activities through accurate record-keeping, effective communication, and compliance with corporate governance standards. Known for organizational precision and discretion, she supports the board by preparing agendas, documenting minutes, and facilitating transparent decision-making processes. Thania brings a commitment to integrity and accountability to the role, helping guide the board’s work with clarity and professionalism.
Joshua Small
IT Specialist
The IT Specialist provides essential technical support and systems management to ensure the smooth operation of the organization's technology infrastructure. This role supports internal staff and programs serving veterans by maintaining hardware, software, and network systems, as well as improving digital tools that advance he organization's mission.
Mark A. Joshua
Chief Operating Officer
As Chief Operating Officer of VHVATC, Mark A. Joshua oversees the organization’s day-to-day operations with a focus on efficiency, impact, and community service. With a strong background in organizational leadership and program management, Mark ensures that VHVATC’s mission is carried out through streamlined processes, strong team coordination, and a deep commitment to supporting Veterans and their families. His operational leadership plays a vital role in expanding services, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that every initiative aligns with the organization’s core values of service, respect, and empowerment.
.jpg)
Lucy Jordan
Director of Housing
Lucy moved to Charlotte, NC from New York City in 1993 as a single parent with a 9-year-old daughter. Lucy was unfamiliar with the community and did not know anyone in the area. Since her brother had been killed in New York City, and with her mother's urging her intent was to move in search of a better way of life for herself and her daughter. It was a bold move. Lucy took her daughter to Atlanta to stay with her mother for a while, and made connections in Charlotte in order to secure work. She worked for the Federal Government for over 20 years and was a Sergeant in the Army Reserve for 4 years. Since becoming a Realtor, in 2000 Lucy has become a Workforce Housing Specialist assisting those in need in securing affordable housing. In addition, she attained the highly regarded Certified Military Residential Specialist credential to assist service members transitioning to civilian life pursuing housing.
Bruce Pierce
Director of Health Care
As Director of Health Care at VHVATC, Bruce Pierce leads efforts to improve access, awareness, and delivery of health services for Veterans and their families. With extensive experience in health care coordination and advocacy, Bruce is committed to bridging gaps in care and promoting holistic approaches to wellness. His leadership supports a wide range of initiatives—from connecting Veterans to vital medical resources to advancing community-based health programs. Passionate about service and driven by purpose, Bruce plays a key role in ensuring the well-being of those who have served.
Joy Young
Treasurer
With over 10 years of accounting experience in New York City, Joy Young brings a wealth of expertise to her role as Treasurer. Her journey in accounting is deeply intertwined with her passion for giving back to those who serve our country. Joy's commitment in helping Veterans stems from her personal experience as the spouse of a Marine. Having witnessed the sacrifices and challenges firsthand, she is dedicated to supporting veteran-focused initiatives and ensuring financial transparency and accountability for the nonprofit's mission.
Strangé Morgan
Clinical Social Worker
Strangé is a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina with eight years of experience. She earned her master’s in social work from UNC Charlotte and works primarily with adults navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, and personality disorders. Her approach is grounded in client-centered care, using techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement, and mindfulness. Strange is passionate about creating a safe, inclusive space and brings a strong multicultural perspective to her work, with a special focus on women’s empowerment and emotional resilience.
Tanesha Caldwell
Director of Foster Care & Counseling
As Director of Foster Care & Counseling at VHVATC, Tanesha Caldwell brings compassion, expertise, and a deep commitment to supporting children, families, and Veterans navigating complex emotional and social challenges. With a strong background in mental health services and child welfare, she leads programs that provide trauma-informed counseling, foster care advocacy, and emotional support systems for those in need. Tanesha’s leadership reflects a holistic and community-centered approach, ensuring that every individual receives the care, stability, and guidance necessary to heal and thrive.
Our Chapters
Headquarters
Charlotte, NC
Ebony Grant
President
​
Ebony Grant, a driven leader and dedicated advocate for veterans, has built a remarkable career empowering those who have served in the military. As the president of Veterans Helping Veterans in Their Communities, Ebony's work is deeply rooted in her passion for giving back to those who sacrificed for their country. With her foundation in education at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, she honed her leadership skills during her undergraduate years. Her commitment to lifelong learning took her to the University of Cincinnati for graduate studies, where she expanded her expertise and vision.
For the past 15 years, Ebony has excelled in operations, bringing a wealth of knowledge and organizational skill to every role she has taken on. Her expertise in managing complex systems and driving positive change is not just a testament to her professional acumen but also to her devotion to improving lives within the veteran community. Through her leadership, Veterans Helping Veterans has grown into a beacon of hope, offering critical resources, mentorship, and support for veterans adjusting to civilian life. Ebony's unwavering dedication continues to transform the lives of those she serves, bridging gaps and building stronger, more resilient communities.
1
Chapter 2 - Med Troop
Brooklyn, NY
Ayeronde "Ron" Davis
President
​
Ayeronde “Ron” Davis has built a life around service, education, and compassion. His journey into emergency care began after a life-threatening asthma episode with his son, which inspired him to volunteer with a Brooklyn-based ambulance service. Since becoming a certified EMT-D in 1997, Ron has added multiple certifications to his name, including BLS instructor, New York State C.I.C., and ambulance driver instructor. He has led teams in high-pressure situations, including coordinating volunteers during the 9/11 attacks and organizing over 100 EMTs for relief efforts in Haiti following the 2010 disaster.
​
Ron’s commitment to the community doesn’t end with emergency response. He runs a weekly food pantry serving hundreds of families, organizes annual school supply giveaways, and distributes toys to children every holiday season. His impact has been formally recognized with several honors, including a borough proclamation, a Community Cornerstone Award, the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, and an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism. Through every effort, Ron remains a steady presence of support and care in the lives of those he serves.
2
3
Chapter 3
Newark, DE
Henery Alexander
President
​
​
Born and raised in Harlem, New York, Henry Alexander is a proud father, Marine Corps Veteran, and dedicated community advocate now based in Brooklyn. A man of service and purpose, Henry honorably served in the United States Marine Corps and continues to lead with the same discipline and integrity in civilian life.
​
With a bachelor's degree in Psychology, Henry brings insight and empathy to every role he takes on—from managing HHA-qualified group homes to serving as President of the Delaware chapter of Veterans Helping Veterans and Their Communities. His leadership extends to fraternal service as well; he holds the position of Secretary in a Masonic organization and is an Associate with the Patriot Order of the Eastern Star.
Technically skilled and solution-oriented, Henry is also experienced in fiber optic troubleshooting and computer operations. Whether he’s supporting Veterans, guiding families, or strengthening communities, Henry remains committed to making a lasting, positive impact wherever he serves.
4
Chapter 4
Statesville, NC
Jeffrey M. Young, aka "Gunny"
President
​
Jeffrey’s commitment to service runs deep, shaped early on by his mother’s unwavering dedication to helping those in need. Her example sparked a lifelong passion in Jeffrey to serve others, first through military service, and later through community leadership. At just 17, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, embarking on a distinguished 17-year career that culminated in his rise to the rank of E7, Gunnery Sergeant. Throughout his military journey, he earned numerous honors for leadership, discipline, and excellence.
​
After retiring from the Marines, Jeffrey redirected his sense of duty toward uplifting his fellow Veterans. As the founder of Veterans Helping Veterans and Their Communities, he has created a platform that addresses the often-overlooked needs of those who have served—focusing on everything from access to resources and peer support to health and wellness initiatives. His work reflects a deep understanding that healing and reintegration require more than just services—they require community, connection, and purpose. Jeffrey continues to be a tireless advocate, ensuring that no Veteran feels forgotten and every family has the opportunity to thrive.
5
Chapter 5
Manning, SC
Hanan Ali
President
​
I am a proud Mother and Grandmother who comes from a family from the island of Jamaica in the West Indies that grew vegetables and raised farm animals for over 90 years. I have become more intense with farming over the last four years and was one of United Farmers USA's high tunnel recipients to grow vegetables as well as being selected with a group of farmers for Farmers of the year published in the Minority Landowner Organization magazine 2021.
I am an advocate for "Food as Medicine and plant medicine for Healing.” In continued herbalism studies as part of reestablishing other avenues of choice for healthy foods and herbs for the community, and Veterans helping Veterans.
-
Beekeeper
-
An End-of-Life Doula
-
non-medical companion who provides emotional, practical, and spiritual support to individuals who are facing a terminal illness or death, as well as their loved ones. Offering companionship, guidance, and resources to help navigate the end-of-life process, including planning, the dying process, and grieving
-
Former Director of Social Services at Lake Marion Nursing Facility in Summerton, SC
6
Chapter 6
President
Hassan Horton
Camden, NJ