As Verdant Valor Sanctuary continues to build momentum, November has been a month of growth, connection, and meaningful progress toward our shared vision. Our board, volunteers, and partners have been steadily sowing seeds, both figuratively and literally, to advance our mission of creating a nature-based therapeutic center for Veterans and Adults with IDD.

Organizational Highlights

Brand Analysis & Market Research
Kilo Watts Jr. has been diligently working on brand positioning and market analysis to help us refine how Verdant Valor Sanctuary shows up in the community. His research is shaping a strategic direction that strengthens our outreach and ensures our message resonates with those we serve.

Veteran Outreach & Community Insight
Kasey Lackey has been actively networking with fellow veterans to better understand the needs and challenges of those transitioning stateside. Her work is helping us design programs that align directly with veteran priorities; especially around support, belonging, and reintegration.

Celebrating Our Team
We’re excited to celebrate Shady Mohamed, James Blakeney, and Andrew Febre, who all marked their Scorpio birthdays while continuing to support our land search mission. Your energy and dedication bring life to Verdant Valor Sanctuary!

Land Search Progress
We’re thrilled to welcome Danielle Burton, our new real estate agent, whose expertise is guiding us toward the right property for our sanctuary. Her support brings clarity and confidence to this crucial stage of development.

Advocacy & Education
On November 6, 2025, Melissa Bové served as a keynote speaker for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission Annual PASRR Virtual Conference. Her presentation focused on best practices for communicating with individuals who do not use words to communicate, which is a message aligned not only with our values, but with our mission to create environments where all forms of expression are respected, understood, and supported.

Administrative Milestones
·        The Mecklenburg County Register of Deeds has successfully processed our DBA paperwork. We are now awaiting the official posting through the Secretary of State website.
·        Our IRS Form 1023-EZ application is still under review. We’re hopeful to receive our 501(c)(3) determination letter soon. This milestone will unlock powerful opportunities for fundraising, grant access, and broad community partnership.

Looking Ahead
I’d like to personally thank each of you for your steadfast commitment to Verdant Valor Sanctuary. As we prepare for the next phase of development, your time, dedication, and belief in our mission are the driving forces behind our momentum.

Our next meeting will be held on December 14, 2025, at 8:00 PM EST, and we look forward to reconnecting, planning, and continuing our collective work.

Our Long-Term Vision
Verdant Valor Sanctuary aims to become North Carolina’s leading nature-based therapy center for Veterans and Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: where community, healing, and meaningful work come together.