AUTHOR: LIZ WIERBINSKI, DIRECTOR OF HOUSING SERVICES

Tom Bryant is someone who leaves you feeling uplifted and grateful after every interaction with him. He’s cheerful, optimistic and motivated. Since moving into supportive housing at VanKeuren Square in 2023, Tom has experienced tremendous growth. Obtaining permanent supportive housing has allowed him to focus his passions and give back to his community in meaningful ways. “I am very thankful to be a resident at VanKeuren Square,” Tom said, “Housing Visions has created a very attractive living system for our Veteran residents.”

One of his most notable contributions has been leading the community gardening initiative, a project that has transformed the outdoor spaces of VanKeuren Square into thriving, green oases. His leadership has inspired other residents to take an active interest in gardening and outdoor activities, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among neighbors. By partnering with Kathy from Cornell Cooperative Extension, he has brought in expertise and resources to ensure the garden’s success, making it a source of pride and joy for the entire community. What started as a small group of 2-5 residents utilizing only a few of the 11 garden beds prior to Tom moving in, has quickly grown into a weekly “Garden Club” since he has been involved, where a consistent group of 10-15 residents meet to participate in gardening activities with Cornell Cooperative Extension.

The community garden at VanKeuren Square is particularly significant because it offers a holistic and therapeutic intervention for Veterans, many of whom live with PTSD as a result of their military service and tend to socially isolate. The garden fosters camaraderie, promotes a connection with nature for mental well-being, and provides a sense of belonging to combat feelings of isolation. VanKeuren Square residents generously share their harvests with their neighbors along with using their fruits and vegetables to cook group meals in the community kitchen with the help of Cornell Cooperative Extension’s nutrition program.

Tom’s dedication to community service doesn’t stop with gardening. He has also joined the Board of Directors of Housing Visions, where he advocates for Veterans and affordable housing opportunities. His experiences and insights as a Veteran give him a unique perspective that he uses to champion the needs of others in similar situations. In response to his appointment to the Board of Directors at Housing Visions, Tom said, “I look forward to presenting growth ideas and resources that I am aware of for approval by the Housing Visions leadership.”

His optimistic and positive attitude has made him an appreciated figure in the community. His presence has brought a renewed sense of hope and possibility to VanKeuren Square, showing others what is possible when you are given the right support and opportunities. Tom is excited for many positive changes coming to VanKeuren Square, stating recently, “with the new bus service to grocery stores, life became easier for many residents.” He continues to look optimistically towards the prospect of increased growth.

Tom’s journey is a testament to the power of supportive housing. It has enabled him to not only stabilize his own life but also to uplift those around him. His leadership, community service, and advocacy work have had a ripple effect, strengthening the entire VanKeuren Square community.