Since its founding, Iowas Anchor of Hope has significantly impacted our community. IAAOH has provided food, shelter, toys, love, and other necessities to many individuals in need. We have also helped countless people gain the skills and resources they need to improve their lives. 
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During an awful moment in his life, Charles Van Luyn realized what kind of difference five minutes can make. From that realization, Charles created a visible reminder in a patch. The goal wasn't to stop at a patch but to create a strong understanding of the meaning behind it; an understanding that the number 22 is in honor of 22 veterans a day who take their own lives.
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In 2021, a derecho completely devastated Eastern Iowa, leaving many people displaced from their homes. Charles and Christine Van Luyn founded Iowas Anchor of Hope to assist first responders and veterans impacted by the disaster.
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With support from "Thank You Is Not Enough" and Todd from "Country Action Benefits," we connected with a service dog trainer. That's when the IAAOH family grew to include Airborne, Charles' service dog and best friend. It was at that point that Charles discovered how much Veterans and First Responders need direct access to resources.