When Vietnam-era Navy veteran Raymond Balone reached out to Diné Naazbaa Partnership (DNP) looking for assistance in acquiring a home, he was battling an illness and his health was very weary. At the time, Raymond resided in a Recreational Vehicle (RV) parked on the reservation with no access to plumbing, electricity, and other necessities for survival. He told Diné Naazbaa Partnership Program Lead, Bernadine Tyler, that he has been waiting patiently for a long time for support.
Upon contact, Bernadine immediately reached out to a housing specialist at a local organization. After hearing Raymond’s story, the organization agreed to visit Raymond’s RV area to start the initial assessments and clearances to give him the new home this veteran deserves and patiently waited for.
"Thank you, Bernie, thank you, DNP. I appreciate your help.” – Raymond Balone
Raymond was excited to hear that progress has been made and will witness each step of the construction of his new dwelling from here on out. In the meantime, the local organization is providing a disability rating increase as well as temporary housing. After a long time of waiting and feeling forgotten, all hope seemed lost, but because of DNP's advocacy the veteran now has hope. We are elated to support Raymond as a veteran and a valuable member of the Diné Naazbaa community.
With support from caring and passionate donors, Diné Naazbaa Partnership (DNP) continues empowering our community to empower our veterans. Please consider making a donation today to DNP. Your generous, tax-deductible contribution supports DNP's collaborative work on the Navajo Nation to meet veterans where they are, ensuring they are connected to all the resources and opportunities they have earned.