We’re guided in our work by a vision, a mission, and a set of beliefs and values, all summed up below.
Strategic Vision
The VBC works to build a nation that understands and values the experiences of our military veterans.
Our Mission
The mission of the Veterans Breakfast Club is to create communities of listening around veterans and their stories to ensure that this living history will never be forgotten. We believe that through our work, people will be connected, educated, healed, and inspired.
What We Believe
Every Veteran Has a Story: No matter who they are–or when or how they served–our veterans are valued and important members of our community. Their stories are our history, and the memories they share with the VBC are treated with respect and care.
There Is Power in Storytelling: Stories connect, heal, educate, and inspire. Stories bridge the divides that separate us and benefit both tellers and listeners.
Listening is the Best Way to Thank a Veteran: To listen actively, attentively, and without judgement is one of the greatest gifts one could give. When it comes to veterans’ stories, listening is also a civic obligation, the responsibility of every citizen to those who have served in the military.
What We Value
Fellowship: We strive to create warm, welcoming environments everywhere we go
Diversity: We strive to reach diverse participants from various backgrounds and walks of life
Quality: We strive to create fascinating, affirming, and inspiring programs everywhere we go
Respect: We strive to treat all participants with respect and dignity
Trust: We strive to keep our work focused on veterans’ stories and free of any political agenda or other motive
Fidelity: We strive to be faithful stewards of the stories we gather and the communities we create
Programs We Offer
- Weekly live online conversations: VBC Happy Hour and VBC Greatest Generation Live
- In-person storytelling breakfasts
- Weekly podcast: The Scuttlebutt: Understanding Military Culture
- Weekly email newsletter: VBC Bulletin
- Quarterly magazine: VBC Magazine
- Ongoing Veteran History Interviews: Veterans History Project
- Travel to veteran-related places like Washington, DC, and Vietnam
Contact us if you want to attend, volunteer, travel, or learn more:
Main Contact: Betty Karleski, Administrator
Write: 200 Magnolia Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Phone: 412-623-9029