Veteran Story: Yolanda Hill

When Purple Heart Homes first met Veteran Yolanda Hill, it was clear that she had spent her life serving others. Born in 1956, Yolanda proudly served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1977 to 1983. As a Unit Supply Specialist, she rose to the rank of Sergeant and earned multiple distinctions, including the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Sharpshooter Badge for Rifle, and Sharpshooter Badge for Grenade.

This year, Purple Heart Homes had the privilege of serving her.

In May, Purple Heart Homes and Andersen Heating and Cooling teamed up live on WCCB News Rising to surprise Yolanda with the announcement that she would be receiving a brand new HVAC system. Thanks to Andersen Heating & Cooling, that system is now installed and providing Yolanda with a safer, more comfortable home. Purple Heart Homes extends its gratitude to Andersen Heating & Cooling for this donation.

The project was also made possible through a grant donation from Lowe's, whose continued support helps create lasting change for Veterans across the region. In addition, Sustainable Plumbing provided important plumbing enhancements in Yolanda's home to improve daily living and long-term safety.

As the Mission Complete celebration approached, volunteers from the Zeta Gamma Chapter of Alpha Delta Pi at UNC Charlotte stepped in to make Yolanda's home even more beautiful. The chapter spent the morning of the celebration completing landscaping improvements and refreshing the outdoor space to welcome Yolanda home with pride.

Project Manager Lamar Austin led the effort, ensuring each upgrade honored Yolanda's service and supported her ability to live safely and comfortably in her home.

On November 12, Purple Heart Homes, partners, and volunteers gathered to celebrate Yolanda's Mission Complete. The moment marked more than the end of a project. It was a reminder of the impact that community can have when it rallies behind a Veteran who once stepped forward to serve our country.

Purple Heart Homes is honored to stand with Yolanda Hill to thank her for her service, her leadership, and her commitment to others.

Watch more of Yolanda's story here:

• Local veteran receives new HVAC system from non-profit
• Local business, nonprofit gifts veteran HVAC system

Join Us This Holiday Season

As we celebrate Yolanda's Mission Complete, we are reminded that there are thousands of Veterans still waiting for the safety, dignity, and peace of mind that a stable home provides. This year, we invite you to be part of that change.

Purple Heart Homes has launched our inaugural year end giving campaign, Hearts for the Holidays, and we are asking our community to stand with us. Your support helps us follow the mission of Healing Hearts One Home at a Time, ensuring Veterans like Yolanda receive the critical repairs, accessibility upgrades, and life-improving modifications they deserve.

Give today. Get involved. Help us bring more Veterans home.

[Learn more about the Hearts for the Holidays Campaign]