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Engaging Students.
Preserving Legacy.

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Our mission is to Connect Students with Veterans™ in order to honor veterans, preserve America’s heritage, and develop future leaders. Helping to bridge the gap between civilian and military life, we strive to develop students' character and civic responsibility, while recognizing our veterans' legacy of service.
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Published Volumes

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19

Student Graduates

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100

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Students Impacted

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56,521

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Our Story

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It started in Barbara Hatch’s classroom in 1998, when a student asked "Is Saving Private Ryan real?" A dedicated history teacher, Barbara had the idea to invite veterans to share their real stories with her students. The students' interest continued and the service stories grew more frequent and diverse. The program organically grew and evolved into an after-school oral history publishing club in 2004, and a 501 (c)(3) non-profit in 2009.

Our History →

Our Impact

Dedicated to fostering character in students, while honoring the sacrifice made by our service men and women.
Veterans
Our veterans continue to find purpose in giving back. Being the first time many have shared their service journey publicly, the process can be cathartic and a catalyst for continuing to share their story with family.
Students
Our students begin to discover their full potential, building their communication and collaboration skills, while learning about integrity, leadership and teamwork through some incredible stories of valor. The relationships forged last a lifetime.
Teachers
Experiential learning promotes critical thinking and improves academic skills--all while teaching students the importance of civic responsibility. 95% of our students pursue continuing education.
Community
Enhancing patriotism and civic education, Veteran’s Heritage Project strengthen families and community relationships.

Governance

Meet the dedicated business, education, and military leaders who make up our Board and Staff.
Kerry Ahern
Kerry Ahern, MBA
Board President
SVP, Resource Planning Leader
Bank of America
Alumni Parent
Holly Shaw
Holly Shaw
Board Vice President
Retired COO/CFO
Shelly Yeck
Shelly Yeck, MBA, CCM
Board Treasurer
Sr. Supply Chain Capture Mgr.
General Dynamics Mission Systems
Alumni Parent

Mitch Wentzel
Mitch Wentzel
Board Secretary
Program Manager, Small & Disadvantaged Business
TriWest Healthcare Alliance
US Marine Corps, Retired
Since You Asked,™
Volume XIII, MCCCD Edition

Financials

View our Annual Reports and Financials
FY 23 Annual Report Cover
FY 23 Annual Report
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FY 22 Annual Report
FY 22 Annual Report
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FY 23 Reviewed Financials
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FY 22 Icon
FY 22 Reviewed Financials
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FY 23 Form 990
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FY 22 Form 990
FY 22 Form 990
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Latest News

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Seal of Civics Literacy
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Seal of Civics Literacy
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VHP approved as the first program to meet all four categories for Arizona's Seal of Civic Literacy
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20 Years of VHP logo
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20 Years of VHP
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Veterans Heritage Project celebrates the 20th year of Connecting Students with Veterans.
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Alumni sparkle
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2025 Alumni Award
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Nominate a fellow alumni by October 1 or complete a self-submission form (highly encouraged) by December 1.
Learn More