Today we’d like to introduce you to April Childers.
April, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am a twenty-year Navy veteran and military spouse. After retiring, my husband and I moved to Tennessee and ran a convenience store for two years. Following the sale of the store, I was looking for new ways to serve my community and discovered a local veterans coalition. Although meetings had paused during COVID, I began attending once they resumed—and quickly found myself leading them.
About a year later, I connected with others who shared a passion for supporting veterans, and together we established a 501(c)(3) organization: the Middle Tennessee Veterans Coalition. Since then, we have organized a variety of events, including veteran meetups, a Veteran Job Fair, the Salute to Heroes Concert, a Veteran Resource Fair, Women Veterans Recognition Day celebrations, and a 1940s Gala fundraiser.
Our mission is to advocate for veterans through education, collaboration with community leaders and veteran organizations, and by helping veterans access the resources they need. Currently, we are planning our 1950s Military Gala on April 11, 2026, and hosting the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall from June 25–29 at VFW Post 4641 in Dickson, TN.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Running a nonprofit is definitely not a smooth road, but it’s been worth every challenge. Things have gotten easier as I’ve connected with other nonprofits in the area, and it’s amazing to see our name starting to get out there—people are actually reaching out to us for help!
Finding volunteers is always a challenge, but God has a way of providing exactly what we need, right when we need it. One of the hardest parts, though, is reaching the veterans who truly need assistance. Many of us don’t ask for help—we tend to think someone else needs it more, even when it’s support we’ve earned through serving our country. It’s a mindset we’re slowly changing, one connection at a time.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Middle Tennessee Veterans Coalition?
The Middle Tennessee Veterans Coalition is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advocating for veterans through education, collaboration, and connecting them with the resources they need. We specialize in creating meaningful programs and events that serve the veteran community and honor their service. From veteran meetups and job fairs to large-scale events like the Salute to Heroes Concert, Women Veterans Recognition Day, and our 1940s and upcoming 1950s Military Gala fundraisers, we focus on opportunities that both celebrate veterans and provide tangible support.
What sets us apart is our community-driven approach. We don’t just host events—we build relationships, partner with other nonprofits, and listen to the unique needs of veterans in Middle Tennessee. Our goal is to make sure every veteran knows they are seen, valued, and supported.
Brand-wise, we are most proud of the trust and recognition we’ve earned in the community. People know that when the Middle Tennessee Veterans Coalition organizes an event, it is done with heart, integrity, and a real commitment to veterans’ well-being. We want readers to know that our organization is more than events and programs—it’s a community of passionate volunteers and leaders who are committed to making a difference for those who have served.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I am incredibly grateful to the people who have supported the Middle Tennessee Veterans Coalition along the way. Our Vice President, Nate Andrus, and our Secretary, Amanda Brown, have been instrumental in helping the organization grow and thrive—they bring dedication, expertise, and passion to every project we take on.
We’ve also been fortunate to have the guidance and support of other local nonprofits. They’ve shared valuable insights about what works, what doesn’t, and how to navigate the challenges of running a successful nonprofit. Their mentorship and collaboration have been crucial in helping us serve our veterans more effectively and build a strong, trusted presence in the community.
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