Warrior Homes of Collier, a Naples-based nonprofit serving at-risk and homeless veterans, has announced U.S. Army veteran Aaron Schultz as its new director of operations for the organization. In this vital role, Schultz will oversee the organization’s efforts to provide supportive housing, mental health services and educational resources to veterans in Collier County.
“It’s a great honor to have someone of Aaron’s experience and stature joining our organization,” said Dale Mullin, a retired Vietnam veteran, founder and president of Warrior Homes of Collier. “We have a bright future ahead of us, and knowing that Aaron will be a major part of that is exciting.”
A longtime servicemember and veteran advocate, Schultz brings extensive military and civilian experience to Warrior Homes. He previously worked at the Veterans Benefits Administration as a veteran service representative, assisting veterans with disability claims. He also served as a professor of military science for the U.S. Army ROTC program at South Dakota Army State University.
Schultz served in the South Dakota National Guard for over 29 years, including deployments to the Middle East during Operation Desert Storm from 1990 to 1991, and Operation Enduring Freedom from 2010 to 2011. While in the military, he received 12 medals recognizing his service, commendation and achievement.
“After leaving the Veterans Benefit Administration, I knew I still had a passion to continue helping veterans and their families,” said Schultz. “Warrior Homes was my first choice, and Dale and I immediately connected over our shared commitment to serving veterans. I’m excited to build relationships, support our veterans and expand programs to make a meaningful difference for those who have served our nation.”
Based in Naples, the nonprofit operates six residences for local veterans: Alpha House, a short-term, transitional home for those in recovery from substance abuse; Delta House, a supportive housing complex with 10 apartments for up to 20 veterans; as well as Bravo, Charlie, Echo and Foxtrot Houses, which serve seniors on fixed incomes.
Additionally, Warrior Homes of Collier connects its residents with support services like mental health counseling and peer support through the David Lawrence Centers. It also provides educational opportunities, including college scholarships.
