Finding Purpose, Challenging Stigma: A Space That Became Something More
Through the New Vitae Wellness Foundation, the work goes beyond education. It creates opportunities for real conversation, deeper understanding, and connection in ways that challenge stigma at its core.
That work continues to grow through a developing partnership with DeSales University, expanding locally by meeting individuals where they are and providing consistent, meaningful support.
This spring, that partnership came to life through a five-week workshop series held at DeSales University’s Veterans and Military Services Center. Designed to support veterans, active military, and their families, the Center offers more than academic resources. It provides a place for connection, peer support, and community for those navigating life during and after service.
Under the leadership of Wendy Badman, the Center has created an environment where individuals are not only supported, but understood. It was within that setting that the workshop unfolded.
Over five weeks, veterans, military members, and their families came together to explore identity, purpose, barriers to seeking support, and the uncertainty that often comes with transition. As Wendy shared,
“This was no ordinary workshop… it was a master class in thriving and thrivership. Each week created opportunities for growth, healing, and giving back to one another.”
Facilitated by Veteran Service Coordinator Justin Wunderler of New Vitae Wellness and Recovery, a retired Air Force veteran, the series was grounded in shared experience and trust. As Justin reflected, “The conversations grew organically. Nothing was forced. The feeling was genuine care and interest, not just checking boxes.”
That difference was felt early.
What began as quiet observation gradually shifted. Veterans started to speak. Conversations deepened. Trust built week by week, creating an environment where they could share openly without pressure.
Veterans described the experience as one where they could find their voices and speak freely, encouraged but never forced. That balance, support without pressure, became a defining part of the experience.
For some, the impact was deeply personal. One veteran shared that before the workshop, they had lost their sense of self and were spiraling. Through the experience, they were able to reconnect with who they are and begin moving forward again. They described Justin’s role in that process as life-saving, crediting the support and environment with helping them out of a place they could not navigate alone.
Another veteran reflected on how the conversations created an opportunity to share experiences without hesitation, supported by genuine care and encouragement.
Moments like this are not planned. They are built through consistency, trust, and the willingness to meet people where they are.
The impact extended beyond the sessions themselves. Veterans expressed a desire to continue supporting one another, with some stepping forward to carry the work forward and remain connected beyond the five-week series.
Importantly, the environment remained responsive to real-life challenges. As Wendy noted, when support is consistent and intentional, individuals engage in ways that make growth possible. During the series, veterans navigating difficult moments were able to access support, resources, and pathways forward in real time.
What took place was not about delivering information. It was about creating an environment where people felt seen, where lived experience was valued, and where stigma could be challenged through understanding rather than assumption. As Justin shared,
“Everyone has purpose. Don’t be intimidated by change or failure. That is part of the process of growth.”
This work reflects the purpose of the New Vitae Wellness Foundation: expanding access to education, challenging stigma surrounding mental health and lived experience, and creating opportunities for meaningful connection within the communities we serve.
Through continued partnership with DeSales University, this work will move forward, grounded in collaboration, consistency, and a shared commitment to supporting veterans and those navigating their next chapter.
