In this episode, we interview Rasheem Howell, Army veteran and Regional Operations Director for The Mission Continues. Rasheem shares his journey from growing up in New Jersey and Virginia, facing a troubled home life, to joining the Army in 98. Rasheem describes his military service as an AC technician at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and his deployment with the 101st Airborne in 2003, where he experienced combat and personal loss.

After leaving the military, Rasheem faced challenges finding stable employment but eventually earned a bachelor's and master's degree. He found fulfillment through community service with The Mission Continues, starting as a volunteer and rising to the role of director of regional operations where he focuses on supporting platoon leaders and engaging veterans in impactful projects. He highlights affordable housing, mental health, and finding purpose as key issues for veterans and emphasizes the adaptability and loyalty of veterans, countering misconceptions about PTSD.

Rasheem encourages veterans to persist, utilize their GI Bill benefits, and contribute to their communities, expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts within The Mission Continues.

https://www.missioncontinues.org/

We’re on a mission to connect veterans with under-resourced communities. Our programs deploy veteran volunteers to work alongside nonprofit partners and community leaders to improve educational resources, tackle food insecurity, foster neighborhood identity, and more. The Mission Continues’ vision is for all veterans with a desire to continue their service to be part of a movement to transform communities.