
Burn Pits 360 Advocate of the Year Award at the Gala of Valor 2026
“Together, we are ensuring that Veterans and their families are heard, supported, and never left behind.” – Anthony Paolino, Strategic Advisor, CMVS We are proud
To ensure that veterans and families succeed where they live, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services team uses our research and experience to provide influence, share ideas and build & sustain actions that organizations use to impact veterans.

Colonel (Ret.) Sam Whitehurst, Vice President, Programs & Services at Dixon Center leads a discussion with Colonel (Ret.) Greg Gadson and Colonel Ken Wilson on the challenges facing wounded/disabled veterans at the “Honoring the Hurt and their Heroes” Event.Enter an important note here
We envision a future in which all veterans and their families live a full and satisfying life in the community. This is possible if every organization can effectively integrate veterans and their families into their existing community-based programs. To this end, Dixon Center has participated in a series of important events to build public awareness, encourage community involvement and promote grassroot solutions that can be replicated in local communities.
Veterans who are making a difference in the lives of wounded/disabled veterans. L to R: Colonel (Ret.) Sam Whitehurst, Dixon Center; Colonel (Ret.) Greg Gadson, advocate for wounded/disabled veterans and their families; Colonel Ken Wilson, Director, Trauma and Acute Care Surgery at the University of Chicago Medical Center, and Dr. Terrell Odom, Director of Office of Military-Affiliated Communities at the University of Chicago.Enter an important note hereThis is a snapshot of what is possible through collaboration with federal and state agencies, private-sector partners, organized labor, community-based organizations, and other non-profits. It’s a whole of society approach.
If you want to join in this inspiring work and explore what is possible, contact Colonel (USA, Ret.) Sam Whitehurst, Vice President, Programs & Services, at swhitehurst@dixoncenter.org.

“Together, we are ensuring that Veterans and their families are heard, supported, and never left behind.” – Anthony Paolino, Strategic Advisor, CMVS We are proud

“By sharing research, strengthening partnerships, and advancing practical solutions, CMVS helps create pathways for veterans to achieve their goals and thrive beyond military service.” Last

Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services (CMVS) will honor Holly E. Metzger by naming its Heal with Honor pillar in her memory: the Holly

“Business Development begins in local areas by including small community-based opportunities.” A key tenet of our work at the Center for Military and Veterans Services