Free space for veterans at WeWork helps entrepreneurship

November 5, 2018

Upon his return from deployment in Afghanistan as a sergeant in the Marines, Brett D’Alessandro had a tough time re-integrating.

"I went through hell, as a lot of vets do,” he says.

With medical help and that of organizations such as the Starlight Military Program, Veteran Racing Team and Operation Rebound, D’Alessandro recovered, but on the way to an appointment, he spotted a homeless vet.

"I went to my motel and pulled together a backpack filled with hats, gloves and warm clothing layers, and brought it to him,” he says.

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Inspired to help, he and his girlfriend, Alexa Modero, created Backpacks for Life, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that collects toiletries and basic supplies in backpacks and distributes them to needy vets with the help of Stand Down events, veteran service organizations, first responders and police officers. They also coach and mentor homeless and at-risk veterans.

Since launching his nonprofit in 2014....the charity has given out 5,500 packs...

Then, in August, they were accepted to the Veterans in Residence program at WeWork. This nationwide effort was launched in 2016 by the global network of workspaces and Bunker Labs, a nonprofit that helps vets and their families start and grow their businesses.

Since every entrepreneur’s journey is different, "we’re trying to leverage and activate member companies and members to help folks build a product, a team, help with product launches and form strategic partnerships. If you’re a Vet in Residence, your story is our story.”

Veterans can apply for the program at WeWork.com.

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There is a lot more in this compact article and didn't want to have to type "Section Omitted" or the three periods, but I had to. Readers can, however, click on the large title "Free Space for Veterans" above and read the rest as well as check out the photos.

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