Winter Newsletter
Since our launch celebration on September 14, Project Restore Hope has grown from an idea into a real, working community for veterans, first responders, and their families. Now we’re taking the next big step: building our first healing center in Solana Beach alongside VFW Post 5431.
Since our launch celebration on September 14, Project Restore Hope has grown from an idea into a real, working community for veterans, first responders, and their families. Now we’re taking the next big step: building our first healing center in Solana Beach alongside VFW Post 5431.
2026 Programming & Fundraising Goals
Thanks to your generosity and support, we’ve raised over $51,000 in public donations! We’re on our way but need your help to reach our goal of $250,000 by Jan.2. We’re deeply grateful to those who have contributed and are calling upon those who are still considering to help Project Restore Hope attain its financial goal. We welcome any amount you can give! Your donation will support our goal of providing 20 warriors with a full year of holistic healing medical services.
Partnership with Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5431
The heart of Project Restore Hope's first healing center model is our partnership with VFW Post 5431 in Solana Beach. This historic Post will serve as the headquarters for Project Restore Hope, creating a powerful collaboration between our organization and one of the nation's most respected veterans service organizations. This collaboration will serve as a model for future healing centers, demonstrating how community organizations and established veterans groups can unite to create dignified, stigma-free spaces for healing.
Architectural Partnership with Bill Hayer
We are honored to partner with architect Bill Hayer, whose generosity and talent will shape the future of our Solana Beach healing center. Bill has graciously offered to design the remodel of the space—a gift that accelerates our vision and elevates what this center will provide for those who have served. His design concept honors the history of the Post while creating a healing, welcoming environment for all future programming. We've submitted plans to the city for approval. (Insert new rendering)
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we enter 2026, PRH “Warrior House” will be teaming up with the VFW to host an Open House every month at our Solana Beach headquarters. These gatherings will allow supporters, members, neighbors, and partners to stay connected, witness progress, and continue building momentum together. This is only the beginning—and we're grateful to build this future with you.
Thank you for standing with us. Your support is the spark behind every milestone, every meeting, every conversation, and every life that Project Restore Hope will touch for years to come.
End-of-Year Ask
As we close out 2025, we are asking our community to help us finish the year strong. Your year-end gift fuels our Warrior Healing Program in 2026. Twenty veterans and first responders will receive access to critical healing services, connection, and support.
If you feel called to invest in this movement, please consider making a tax-deductible year-end donation today. Every gift—large or small—moves this vision forward.
To everyone who has donated, volunteered, shared our message, opened doors, made introductions, attended events, and prayed for this work—thank you. You have helped turn a bold idea into a real and growing community of hope.
We are deeply grateful to be building this alongside you.
With gratitude,
Melissa Love & Guy McDermott
Founders - Project Restore Hope
It’s a Movement
Join the Journey of “Restoring Hope”
Welcome to the Project Restore Hope Blog
A New Era for Veterans and First Responders—The Warrior Class Begins
At the heart of Solana Beach, California, a powerful transformation is underway.
Project Restore Hope (PRH) is leading a national movement to reimagine how we support veterans, first responders, and their families. We’re beginning by transforming VFW Post 5431 into the first-ever Restore Hope VFW—a cutting-edge healing space dedicated to restoring purpose, wholeness, and hope.
This blog is your gateway to that mission. Whether you’re a potential donor, community partner, or a warrior seeking belonging, we’ll keep you updated on every milestone—from our local progress in Solana Beach to our national expansion plans.
What Is Project Restore Hope?
Project Restore Hope is a nonprofit initiative committed to:
Building a collaborative network of elite nonprofits and service providers
Launching a dignity-based membership platform for veterans and first responders
Creating healing spaces within VFWs across the U.S.—starting with Solana Beach
Why It Matters
Too many warrior-focused programs offer handouts without creating long-term transformation. PRH is changing that. We’re replacing the charity mindset with community-driven, integrative care—including mental health support, physical healing modalities, peer mentorship, and spiritual reconnection.
Our Restore Hope VFW in Solana Beach will serve as the national prototype—a living laboratory to build a replicable model for posts across America.
What’s Ahead
Restore Hope Membership Platform (AI-powered and peer-supported)
Monthly Blog Updates from our build-out and programming journey
Donor and volunteer opportunities to co-create this future with us
Get Involved
If you believe in restoring purpose and connection to those who’ve served, this is your moment. Join us. Share our mission. Help bring the Restore Hope VFW model to life—starting right here in Solana Beach.
💬 Reach out to volunteer or partner.
Project Restore Hope: Where warriors come home—not just to a place, but to themselves.