Just as service members looked out for one another on the battlefield, RTW continues that commitment here at home.
We serve veterans and their families regardless of their type of discharge, as well as Active Duty members of the Armed Forces and their families.
Inspired by the motto of the U.S. Army Special Forces, these words reflect RTW’s commitment to service beyond ourselves.
We bring veterans and community members together so veterans can once again experience the camaraderie, teamwork and shared purpose that were such important parts of military life.
Through meaningful community missions, veterans have opportunities to continue serving, make a positive difference and rediscover a sense of purpose.
“Our Impact mission is to create supportive communities by helping to eliminate poverty, drugs, gangs, crime, violence, and to restore the spirit of American patriotism.”
— Mr. Daniel “Doc” Habeel, RTW Co-Founder
1958–2019
Co-Founder, RTW Veteran Center
Arnetha Gholston-Habeel was a woman of unwavering love, quiet strength and deep compassion.
As the devoted wife of a disabled Vietnam War veteran, Arnetha became his rock, caregiver and most faithful supporter. She completed training through Veterans Administration programs and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), equipping herself with the knowledge and understanding necessary to provide compassionate and informed care.
But Arnetha’s heart for service reached far beyond her own family.
As co-founder of the RTW Veteran Center, she became a source of hope, dignity and healing for countless homeless veterans. Her compassion could be seen not only in her words, but also through her actions.
Ms. Arnetha’s Kitchen
One of the most powerful examples of Arnetha’s commitment to serving others was “Ms. Arnetha’s Kitchen,” where she helped prepare more than 300,000 free meals for those in need.
From 2010 through 2017, the RTW Veteran Center became known as:
“The Miracle on 55th Street”
That legacy was built in no small part through Arnetha’s compassion, dedication and loving leadership.
The Silent Heroes Service Award
To continue honoring Arnetha’s legacy, RTW established the Silent Heroes Service Award for Supportive Spouses and Significant Others.
The award recognizes those who, like Arnetha, serve quietly behind the scenes—providing encouragement, care, sacrifice and strength to the veterans and service members they love.
Arnetha’s life demonstrated what it means to put compassion into action.
She was, and will always remain, a guiding light of love in action.