Today we’d like to introduce you to Thomas Coles-Reyes.

Hi Thomas, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born in 1952 as Thomas Timothy Coles, but the story of my life is as complex as the name I was given. My parents were both bi-racial, and their union was fraught with challenges. They had three children, but the pressures of life and their circumstances proved too much. My mother, with her mixed Italian heritage, named me “Tomas” as a compromise to my father’s preferred biblical spelling, “Thomas.” To further reflect our religious background, my middle name became “Timothy,” another biblical name. My father’s side of the family had a strong religious background, with my grandfather being a minister.

From a young age, I was always asking “Why?” about everything. Life took a tough turn early on when my mother left us. I was just 2 years old, and shortly after, my father, battling his own demons of violence and alcoholism, also abandoned us. The mental scars from this abandonment were deep, and my siblings and I were left to navigate life on our own.

My education was a struggle due to the constant moving caused by my father’s inability to keep a job. But a teacher saw something in me and decided to help. She used comic books to teach me how to read, and for the first time, I found joy in learning. However, my childhood was marred by violence, as I was raised in some of the most dangerous children’s centers in New York City.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
When I was 16, my maternal grandmother took my siblings and me into her home in Queens, New York. But this new environment came with its own set of challenges, and after a year of abuse from my step-grandfather, I left home at 17. I lived on the streets, relying on the kindness of friends who let me sleep on their couches.

On my 18th birthday, I experienced my first birthday party, thanks to the family whose couch I was currently crashing on. It was a bittersweet moment because that same day, I received a call informing me that I’d been drafted into the army. Instead of joining the army, I made a different choice. I went to the library, studied hard, and passed the test to join the United States Air Force with a high score.

I entered the Air Force in 1971, eager to serve my country. However, during my military service, I encountered a situation that would change my life forever. We were put through a simulated battle condition, which involved crawling through a tunnel with the sounds of explosions echoing all around us. The intensity of the experience triggered something inside me. Not long after, I began to suffer from PTSD, Panic Disorder, and Agoraphobia. These conditions forced me to leave the service under honorable conditions.

In 1973, I returned to Brooklyn, New York, only to face homelessness. To get affordable airfare at the time, I had to wear my dress uniform. That first night, a cold September evening, I found myself sleeping on a park bench. With my disorders attacking me, I walked all night long, searching for some sense of peace. The next morning, I asked if there was any help for returning soldiers. This moment marked the beginning of my journey in leadership and the development of the qualities that made me who I am today.

I spent two years homeless on the streets of New York City, but shortly after that time, I was asked to work on two committees with two New York City mayors. I also pursued my education, becoming a Digital Technician and earning an AOS degree and, later, a BS degree in Social Work. My time in New York gave me valuable experience in Substance Abuse Counseling, HIV and AIDS Counseling, and Vocational Rehab Counseling, all while I struggled with the personal demons connected to my military service-related disabilities.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My Work and Specialization:

I am the founder of Vet’s Place, Inc., an organization dedicated to serving veterans by providing them with affordable housing, vocational assistance, and comprehensive support services. My work is deeply rooted in my own experiences as a veteran who has faced homelessness and the challenges of reintegrating into civilian life after military service. I specialize in creating programs that address the unique needs of veterans, particularly those struggling with mental health issues, unemployment, and homelessness.

What I’m Known For:

I am known for my unwavering commitment to veterans and my innovative approach to problem-solving. Whether it was developing the first female veterans program in the area or securing housing for veterans and their families, my work has always focused on finding practical, impactful solutions. I have a reputation for being a strong advocate for veterans’ rights and for working tirelessly to ensure that those who have served our country receive the support they need to rebuild their lives.

What I’m Most Proud Of:

I am most proud of the success of Vet’s Place, Inc., and the tangible difference it has made in the lives of countless veterans. Seeing veterans move from homelessness to stable housing, gainful employment, and a renewed sense of purpose is what drives me. I am also proud of the recognition I’ve received for my work, not because of the accolades themselves, but because they reflect the impact my efforts have had on the community.

What Sets Me Apart:

What sets me apart is my connection to the struggles faced by the veterans I serve. My own journey from homelessness to becoming a leader in veterans’ advocacy gives me a unique perspective and a deep understanding of their needs. I have lived through many of the same challenges they face, and this fuels my passion and determination to make a difference. Additionally, my ability to combine my personal experiences with my professional skills in social work and counseling allows me to create programs that are both empathetic and effective.

To help pay the expenses for Vet’s Place, Inc. until we can receive regular donations and funding. I operate another business called Palm Beach Digital Services-https://[email protected]/. I help small businesses and start-up with promotional videos, website creation, and some marketing. This helps pay some of the Vet’s Place, Inc. bills when I get to work.

Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
I don’t remember much about my childhood, much less have any favorite memories, I saw some pictures of me and my siblings playing in a park with my two Italian cousins. It was the first and the last time I would see them until I was an adult.

Pricing:

• Non-Profit

Contact Info:

• Website: www.vetsplace.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552730081198
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/hWE_VGRSjOs

Image Credits
All images submitted were taken by Thomas “Tomas” Coles-Reyes