Jaynes is particularly proud that some residents have taken the lead in helping themselves. One resident leads AA meetings, and another graduate leads a daily "house meeting" to check in with everyone and take any complaints or suggestions.
Many, like Andrew, enlisted right out of high school, seeking adventure and maybe some training.
A little homesick, he returned to Shreveport after his four-year commitment and found a job. Earlier this year, he lost his job and his bills quickly ate up any savings.
Through an appointment at the VA, he learned about the Veterans Program. Impressed with the cleanliness and structure, he moved in. Two weeks later, he's seeing a difference.
"I'm a lot more organized," he said. "Not because I have to be, but because I want to be."
In the coming year, Jaynes said he still needs more activities for them outside the walls of the program, whether its fun outings or volunteer work.
"We're all about re-engaging them with society and doing it in a more wholesome way," he said.
Andrew sees good things ahead: a career, his own place, independence, which he will earn.
"I'm not getting anything for free," he said.
Parish to recognize veterans
As part of its celebration of Parish Government Awareness Month, the Caddo Parish Commission plans to support our veterans through the Lance Corporal Dakota Huse Memorial Volksmarch.
The event will be a family-friendly walk through the woods at Eddie D. Jones Park starting at 9 a.m. April 30. Registration is $10 for individuals and $25 for families. All proceeds will benefit the Veterans Transitional Living Program.
More details will be available soon!