In-Focus Advertorial | Published August 1, 2025
CLINTON TOWNSHIP — For many veterans, single parents and families living paycheck to paycheck, even small setbacks can lead to major hardships. The Veterans and America First Foundation was created to make sure no local veterans or struggling families are left without hope or support.
Paul Dehem, a longtime real estate broker, launched the nonprofit with a small board of dedicated supporters. “We wanted to create something that could provide direct help to individuals,” he said. “We’re small, but we’re growing.”
The foundation’s thrift store in Clinton Township’s Warehouse District on Hall Road (M-59) and Groesbeck Highway helps fund its efforts. Clothing and furniture donations are sold to raise money, and many items are given directly to veterans and struggling families at no cost. “We provide essential support to veterans and everyday Americans in need,” Dehem said.
Helping people find and keep stable housing is another priority for the foundation. Dehem’s 42 years in real estate have helped him connect with landlords willing to rent to those in need. “I vouch for the first three months of their stay,” he said. This approach gives tenants a chance to get back on their feet.
The foundation is also developing a program called Hands2Hearts2Hands, designed to connect compassionate volunteers directly with individuals facing challenges that prevent them from maintaining their homes or meeting basic daily needs. The initiative offers hands-on assistance with essential tasks such as minor home repairs, yard work, errands and more. “The idea is simple,” Dehem said. “If a single mom needs baby formula but has no way to get to the store, for example, we’ll have volunteers nearby who can pick it up and deliver it to her home. It’s about restoring dignity, independence and human connection— a movement of service, neighbor to neighbor, American to American.”
The nonprofit relies on donations and proceeds from its thrift store to run services and outreach efforts. “Support from the community is huge for us,” Dehem said. “What I enjoy most is when it works—that’s when you know you’ve made a difference.”
Veterans and America First Foundation is located at 44596 Macomb Industrial Dr. in Clinton Township. For information on how to help, visit our website at vaaff.org, where you can also link to our Facebook page, or call (586) 230-7372.