Purple Heart Homes’ 2026 Annual Board Retreat
Members of the Purple Heart Homes Board of Directors and leadership team gathered August 21 through 23 at the Dale Beatty Training Center in Statesville, North Carolina, for the 2026 Annual Board Retreat.
The three-day retreat gave Board members dedicated time to reflect on the organization’s 18-year history, discuss the needs and opportunities ahead, and consider how Purple Heart Homes can continue serving service-connected disabled and aging Veterans effectively as the organization grows.
Much has changed since Purple Heart Homes was founded. What has remained consistent is the need for safe, accessible housing and the important role that donors, partners, volunteers, chapters, and communities play in helping Veterans live more safely and independently at home.
During the retreat, the Board took a close look at how Purple Heart Homes can continue building on that foundation.
Discussions included long-term financial sustainability, fundraising and marketing, technology and data, Board engagement, and the future of the chapter program. Board members also considered how each of these areas connects to the larger mission and how stronger coordination can help resources and support reach more Veterans.
Housing solutions were also an important part of the conversation. Purple Heart Homes continues to explore ways to increase capacity and respond to Veteran housing needs more efficiently, including through its modular home social enterprise. The model has the potential to shorten construction timelines and provide a repeatable approach to creating accessible homes for Veterans.
The retreat also gave the Board an opportunity to review progress beyond individual housing projects. Purple Heart Homes has continued its advocacy work around barriers that can prevent Veterans from qualifying for housing assistance, while chapters and partners across the country continue addressing needs within their own communities.
With that progress comes a responsibility to plan carefully for what is next.
One of the most immediate priorities ahead is the National Mall Veteran Home Build, taking place September 27 through October 5 in Washington, D.C. During the event, an accessible modular home will be built in public view on the National Mall before being transported to its permanent location in Glasgow, Virginia.
The project will bring partners, volunteers, supporters, and national leaders together while drawing attention to the housing challenges facing Veterans and the need for accessible housing solutions.
For the Board, the retreat was an opportunity to consider both the immediate work ahead and the long-term direction of Purple Heart Homes. The conversations were focused on responsible growth, stronger collaboration, and making thoughtful decisions that support the mission for years to come.
As Purple Heart Homes enters its next chapter, the Board’s role will remain an important part of ensuring the organization is prepared to meet the needs of the Veterans and families it serves.
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