Smiles in Action

REAL STORIES

REAL TRANSFORMATION

REAL IMPACT

“I served in the U.S. Army for more than 18 years. Today, I’m a combat veteran, a mental health counselor, and a single mother raising three children.

Joining the military came from a desire to create stability, purpose, and opportunity, not only for myself, but for my future family. The Army taught me resilience, discipline, leadership, and how to continue moving forward even during difficult seasons of life. Throughout my military career, I have served through challenges that tested me mentally, emotionally, and physically while still remaining committed to serving others.

I work hard to give my children a stable, loving home, but had to learn that I can’t cover every need on my own. One of the hardest things as a mother is knowing your child needs something important and wanting with all your heart to provide it.”

IMG-20250208-WA0033

30+
IN TREATEMENT

$150,000+
IN DONATED SERVICES

130+
providers

30+
states reached

Today, I am a full-time college student and a disabled veteran. I continue to work hard to build a better future for myself, but this is one thing I have never been able to fix on my own. Receiving braces through the Embracing Our Warriors program means more to me than just improving my smile; it would help heal a part of me that has carried insecurity since childhood. 

Our Veterans' Stories

“As a combat medic, I learned to be there for people in their hardest moments. Today, as a minister and founder of a bilingual prison ministry, I carry that calling forward by sharing messages of redemption and grace with people who are often forgotten. My face and voice are how I connect with others, yet I often catch myself hiding my mouth because of my overbite. I want to share the hope I feel in my heart without holding back my smile especially with the men I minister to.”
“As a veteran, I’m used to pushing through challenges on my own. Asking for help for my 13-year-old son hasn’t been easy and it’s something I have had to learn to do with my disabilities. I want my son to feel confident in his smile and to know that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. He plays trombone in his middle school band, and I love seeing his personality shine when he plays. I want him to carry that confidence with him wherever life takes him.”
"Not many people talk about the loneliness that comes with military service, the missed holidays, the time away from loved ones, and the sacrifices made behind the scenes. When veterans return home, all they want is to give their families the very best, but financial hardships can make that difficult. This opportunity is my idea of giving back for the time I lost and sharing all that I have learned through this journey."

be part of the next smile story


follow us!