Friday Feature: Forrest Sanders

Continued service
Forrest's story

Your name: Forrest Sanders

Your role at Volunteers of America Michigan: Case Monitor for the Detroit Veterans Housing Program

What brought you to this position? I was working with another veterans program, leading life skill classes and my wife was doing some work with Volunteers of America Michigan. Through that work she got to know Alex Brodrick, and he suggested I apply for the position at the Detroit Veterans Housing Program. 

What is your biggest takeaway from working with Volunteers of America Michigan? I love getting to see the transformation of the veterans that come to our housing program. They come in with little hope, I get to watch them make huge strides while they are here, and then they go out and are successful in life. As a veteran myself, I love being able to give back and serve my military family.

What is your biggest challenge in this position? My biggest challenge is not being able to meet every need that comes through the door. Sometimes we need specific size shoes, or clothing, and it’s not readily available. 

Where is your dream vacation spot? When I was in the military, I was able to travel all over the world and even lived in Berlin, Germany for a few years. However, I never made it to Hawaii, so I would love to go there.

What is your favorite book? “A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens.

How do you spend your time outside of the office? I spend most of my time with my family, but also look for any opportunity I can to volunteer and give back to my community.