At Givens Estates, honoring those who have served our nation is more than a tradition, it is a commitment to recognizing the sacrifices, experiences, and ongoing contributions of our resident veterans. That commitment is now taking shape through an exciting new Veterans Honor Wall project, an initiative that celebrates the remarkable military legacy within our community.
The idea for the Honor Wall originated with Kirsten Cone, Executive Director of Givens Estates, during a 2025 meeting between the Givens Estates Veterans Group and campus administration.
“Kirsten has been a steadfast supporter of veterans at Givens Estates,” said Veteran Group leaders Steven Dunsford and Mike Halus. “We are grateful for her vision, encouragement, and commitment to ensuring veterans feel recognized and valued within our community.”
Following Cone’s suggestion, members of the Veterans Group conducted research, developed a detailed proposal, identified a location, explored design options utilizing military medallions and service seals, and prepared estimated costs for the project. The resulting Honor Wall will serve as a permanent tribute to the men and women who have worn the uniform and called Givens Estates home.
To date, more than 88 veterans have been identified among approximately 800 residents at Givens Estates. That means veterans represent more than 10 percent of our resident population—a remarkable concentration of military service and experience within one community.
The Veterans Group believes that honoring this legacy is about more than recognition. It is also about creating opportunities for connection, support, and service.
The group’s proposed vision and mission statements reflect those values:
Vision Statement:
To be the heart of our community’s military legacy, where every resident veteran is connected, honored, and supported in their retirement years.
Mission Statement:
We unite our veteran community through monthly fellowship, coordinate service projects, and provide support for veterans’ benefits.
Together, these statements embody the group’s three guiding pillars: Honor, Fellowship, and Purpose.
Beyond gathering for camaraderie and fellowship, the Veterans Group is committed to helping others. Members support fellow residents, assist veterans in navigating benefits, and seek opportunities to serve the broader community.
One example is Mike Halus, a Givens Estates resident and leader of the Veterans Group who serves as a Disabled Veterans Service Officer. On average several times each week, Halus works with veterans outside of Givens Estates, helping them understand and obtain the benefits they have earned through their service.
The Honor Wall project is moving forward thanks to the support of the Givens Foundation.
After reviewing the Veterans Group’s proposal, Brian Guengerich, Vice President of Philanthropy, and the Givens Foundation team approved the use of unrestricted philanthropic funds to bring the Honor Wall to life. This investment reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to enhancing life at Givens and supporting programs and projects that matter deeply to residents.
Join Us in Honoring Our Veterans!
The Veterans Honor Wall is more than a display, it is a lasting symbol of gratitude, service, and community. We invite residents, families, and friends to join us in celebrating our veterans and supporting projects that enrich the lives of those who call Givens home.
The Veterans Honor Wall is just one example of how philanthropy helps bring meaningful resident-driven projects to life. To honor our veterans and support initiatives that enrich the lives of residents across Givens, please consider making a gift today: https://givensphilanthropy.org/giving/
Every gift makes a difference—and together, we can create a lasting impact for current and future residents.