Heroes Resource Center
Our Mission
Heroes Resource Center is a non-profit community-based organization that is dedicated to providing resources and services to Veterans, Service Members, and their families in a safe, family-friendly environment.
Through this model of peer-to-peer interaction, Heroes Resource Center is able to quickly address the unique situations that service members, veterans, and military families experience by creating a trusting relationship more immediately.
Heroes Resource Center offers a number of services and activities including peer-to-peer groups and activities, individual/family rehabilitative activities, a Counselor from the Vet Center, a Veteran Service Officer (claims/benefits), a VA Loan Specialist, Financial Assistance and representatives from the Texas Workforce Commission.
Heroes Resource Center hosts multiple weekly activities like our Donuts & Coffee twice a week, and our Veterans Support Group. Through these gatherings, many veterans and service members find a new “family”, a job, and an answer to some of their problems.
We offer many social events including the monthly Friday Peer Dinners & A Show, the annual Just Because Christmas Party, Turkey & Fixings Basket, as well as our highly attended Heroes Appreciation BBQ. All these events are offered at “no-cost” or obligation for active military, veterans, first responders, and their families.
Beyond the services, events, and resources Heroes Resource Center provides, our big mission is outreach and fostering relationships with family, friends, and the integration from military to civilian life. We model ourselves around the idea of a supportive community and by healing all those affected by transition through positive encouragement, support, and open doors.
Board of Directors
-
Richard Berman
Chairman of the Board
-
Lara Garey
Vice Chairwoman of the Board
-
J. Bryant Boyd
Past Chairman of the Board
-
Darryl Avery
Board Treasurer
-
Robert Duffey
Secretary of the Board
-
Mark Coplen
Board Member
-
Steve Belt
Board Member
-
Brandon Glaser
Board Member
The Heroes Resource Center Team
-
Executive Director
Brandon Crook is a devoted husband, father, and proud U.S. Navy veteran who served as a Corpsman for six years. After his military service, he dedicated himself to supporting veterans, service members, and their families. Brandon holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and an MBA in Organizational Leadership & Development, equipping him with the skills to lead and grow impactful community programs. With a deep passion for service, he strives to create meaningful opportunities and resources for those who have served our country. His commitment to helping others is at the heart of everything he does at Heroes Resource Center.
Contact Brandon:
-
Program Director
Carmen M. Valenzuela is a U.S. Army veteran who served 7 ½ years with dedication and commitment. Since joining Heroes Resource Center in 2014, she has played a vital role in the organization’s growth and impact. As the Program Director, Carmen coordinates meetings, manages the event calendar, and fosters strong relationships with community leaders and partner organizations. Her ability to connect with others, combined with her passion for service, makes her an integral part of the team. Committed to excellence, Carmen strives to create meaningful programs and experiences that support and uplift veterans, service members, and their families.
Contact Carmen: -
Operations Manager
Andrew Aguayo is a dedicated professional with a strong background in operations and logistics. As the Operations Manager, he ensures the smooth day-to-day functioning of Heroes Resource Center by overseeing facility management, streamlining processes, and coordinating services. His attention to detail and problem-solving skills help keep programs running efficiently. Passionate about supporting veterans, service members, and their families, Andrew is committed to creating a well-structured and welcoming environment where those who have served can find the resources and community they need.
Contact Andrew:
-
Development Director
Amy Hamand is a seasoned professional with a robust background in development and fundraising. As the Development Director at Heroes Resource Center, she leverages her extensive experience to build strategic partnerships and secure resources that enhance the organization's mission. Amy's commitment to supporting veterans and their families is evident in her proactive approach to engaging donors and stakeholders. Her leadership and vision play a pivotal role in expanding the reach and impact of Heroes Resource Center's programs and services.
Contact Amy:
The Founders: Wes & Judy
Wes and Judy Pierce, originally from Illinois, were married in April of 1987. Their journey from child-rearing to becoming proud grandparents led them to Texas in 2001. After having five of their own sons serve in the military, Wes and Judy became increasingly aware of the unmet needs of our returning Veterans. Through their own children’s difficulties with accessing and finding resources and a very special SSGT Clark, Heroes Night Out was born.
Though much different in the beginning stages, Wes and Judy’s initial efforts were geared toward providing appreciation wallets containing gift cards to wounded soldiers so they could spend a little quality with their families.
Today, this ideology has expanded into a full-service resource center. Heroes Night Out Veterans Resource Center offers easy access to much-needed services. Veterans can get assistance with their VA claims, access legal support when appropriate, access employers, and so much more, all while spending time in the company of their Peers.
Wes and Judy have created family-friendly events, which are free to Veterans and their families. These no-cost events are the heart of the organization. This is where Veterans may come for the first time to get a feel for the organization and begin connecting with other Heroes.
The connection is key. When Vietnam Veterans begin connecting with today’s soldiers who are encountering some of the exact same struggles they had when returning from war, it is an amazing thing to experience. We have all seen so much healing in this place.
Wes and Judy invite you to come and enjoy dinner, completely free and get to know more about how we can help you and how you may be able to help others.