by Tiffany Ricci | photo courtesy of Western Security Bank

Western Security Bank’s Hands of Hope award highlights the good work done by non-profit organizations in our community helping some of the most vulnerable of our population and improving the quality of life for those they serve. This quarter’s recipient, Veterans Navigation Network, certainly fits the bill. Their mission is “To facilitate a smooth transition for our Nation’s Service Members, from military service to civilian life.” 

Veterans account for nearly ten percent of Yellowstone County’s population. Montana is one of the top five states where veterans relocate after leaving the military and, unfortunately, ranks number one in the country for veteran suicides. This statistic highlights just how great the need is to help our veterans transition smoothly into civilian life. 

The Veterans Navigation Network (VNN) was born out of necessity by its founder Blake Fuhriman, an Army Ranger who served four years with three deployments. After a parachuting injury, he left the military but found it difficult to transition out of the structured and high-stress military lifestyle. Knowing firsthand the challenges and obstacles that prevent a successful transition to civilian life, Blake created the VNN to help others avoid the struggles he encountered. 

The VNN has grown tremendously since its inception in 2019 - directly assisting over 1,000 veterans since the beginning. They’ve introduced a Peer Mentoring program which connects volunteer mentors to service members providing support and mentoring from someone who is familiar with the military lifestyle and the integration into civilian life. The VNN also provides a social outlet for veterans and their families by hosting events to foster community, reduce stress, and improve quality of life for those transitioning to civilian life. 

If this is an organization that resonates with you - there are ways to help support the Veterans Navigation Network: 

• Peer Mentors are needed in our smaller surrounding communities. Founder Blake Fuhriman emphasizes how isolating some of these communities can be which can make it difficult for veterans to successfully transition to civilian life. 

• Hosts and sponsors for the community events that provide much-needed camaraderie and connection for veterans and their families. 

• Donations to fund this grassroots effort. 

Billings is fortunate to have an organization like the VNN to help veterans navigate life after the military. They meet the transition needs of veterans through one-on-one resources counseling, case management, peer mentorship, advocacy, and community events. 

Terri and her husband Richard have built a strong network of GIA alumni, Billings community partners, and local services to propel those they help forward. They know what it takes because they have been there themselves. They’ve created loving boundaries and firm house rules so residents can learn the structure and skills necessary to handle real life.  

Their recipe for success works. They’ve helped nearly 4,000 people transition through the houses in the past seven years. Residents gain a sense of self-worth and belonging by contributing to the Billings community through volunteer work throughout the city.  

Terri confirms that addiction is a disease of separation, and they’re preparing residents so they plug into the community and become a part of something bigger than themselves. “You’ve been a taker your whole life; it’s time to be a giver. That’s what we help them become.”  

Visit www.giamt.org/prosper to learn more about the GIA Prosper Campaign or the Thrift Store at 10 South 30th Street in Billings.  

Find out more at veteransnavigation.org

Originally printed in the March 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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