Q&A: The Story Behind Interconnecting Circles & Communities

Behind every mission-driven business is a powerful story. We sat down with founder Ronald Wherry to explore the heart and purpose behind Interconnecting Circles & Communities. From his experiences as a combat veteran to the challenges veterans face transitioning to civilian life, Ronald shares his mission and how it continues to grow.

Q1: What inspired you to start Interconnecting Circles & Communities?

According to the 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, veteran suicide rates increased by 11.6% from 2020, and on average, more than 17 veterans take their own lives every day. 

I was inspired to start Interconnecting Circles & Communities because I saw firsthand how veterans struggle when transitioning from military life. I served in combat zones as a military member and later as a contractor, and those experiences exposed me to the realities many veterans face—the difficulty of re-entering civilian life, the lack of structured resources, and the overwhelming bureaucracy involved in accessing benefits.

Once you leave the military, the support system you once relied on disappears. Navigating these challenges alone can be overwhelming, and I didn’t want my fellow veterans to suffer in silence. My mission is simple: be a vehicle for change and help veterans access the resources they need to move forward.

“For many veterans, the battle doesn’t end when they return home. It shifts to navigating civilian life without a guide.”

Q2: What is the main problem you aim to solve?

The primary issue we address is the gap in access to resources for veterans. Many veterans struggle to understand and navigate the system designed to assist them. Whether it’s securing VA benefits, mental health resources, or housing assistance, the bureaucratic red tape can be overwhelming.

Veterans often spend years fighting for benefits they are entitled to—time they shouldn’t have to waste. My goal is to simplify this process by ensuring that veterans receive guidance and find peer support before they reach a breaking point.

“A veteran should never feel abandoned after serving their country. Accessing help should be straightforward, not a battle.”

Q3: How did you come up with the idea for Interconnecting Circles & Communities?

The idea was born out of my volunteer work at the American Legion, where I served as the Second Vice Commander. Week after week, I encountered veterans who were struggling with the same challenges—confusion over their VA benefits, a lack of access to legal assistance, and a general feeling of being lost in the system.

The more I helped individual veterans—whether it was providing rides or simply listening to their concerns—the clearer it became that this was a widespread, systemic issue, not an isolated problem.

It wasn’t enough to help veterans one by one. I needed to build something bigger—a structured organization that could bridge the gaps in communication, access, and advocacy.

“Real change starts at the community level. When I saw how many veterans needed guidance, I knew I had to act.”

Q4: What challenges have you faced in building this organization?

The biggest challenge has been understanding and addressing the unique needs of each veteran. No two experiences are the same—some veterans struggle with PTSD, others face homelessness, and many are simply frustrated by the slow process of securing benefits.

Another major hurdle has been controlling my emotions. This work is deeply personal, and it is difficult to see veterans struggling with homelessness or being denied the support they need. There have been moments when I felt overwhelmed by frustration, but I’ve learned to channel that emotion into action—advocating for change rather than letting anger consume me.

“Every veteran’s journey is different. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but that doesn’t mean we stop trying.”

Q5: What has been your biggest lesson?

The importance of peer support and mental health awareness. Many veterans silently struggle, and mental health is an invisible illness that affects people regardless of background. Every day, over 17 veterans die by suicide—that’s a crisis we cannot ignore. My biggest lesson has been the power of simply listening and guiding veterans toward the right support networks.

I also stress the importance of seeking help. Asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to Veteran Crisis Support.

Q6: Who were your first clients, and how did you reach them?

My first clients were veterans I met while volunteering at the American Legion. I started small—offering rides and simply listening. From there, my work expanded as word-of-mouth spread.

One of my most fulfilling experiences was teaching an Introduction to Computer Course for Senior Veterans. Many veterans had never used a smartphone before, and this course empowered them to connect with family and access online resources.

“Small acts of service create a ripple effect.”

Q7: What critical milestones or turning points shaped the growth of Interconnecting Circles & Communities?

A major turning point was building a trusted network medical providers. I partnered with three key specialists:

Mental Health Providers: To support veterans dealing with trauma and PTSD.

Family Doctors: To conduct physical assessments and ensure veterans receive proper healthcare.

“By bringing in the right experts, we created a system that truly works for veterans.”

Q8: Were there any mentors or influencers who played a significant role in your journey?

Yes, my father was my greatest mentor and inspiration. He was a true humanitarian, always willing to help others, no matter their circumstances. As a veteran himself, he faced numerous challenges navigating the VA system and securing the benefits he rightfully earned. Watching his struggles firsthand was a defining moment for me—it showed me just how difficult and disheartening the process could be for veterans who had already sacrificed so much.

My father’s resilience, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to helping others shaped my values and fueled my determination. His experiences reinforced my belief that no veteran should have to struggle alone.

“The greatest mentors are those who lead by example. My father’s struggles and triumphs taught me that real change comes from persistence, compassion, and action.”

Q9: What sets Interconnecting Circles & Communities apart from similar organizations?

Persistence, creativity, and a personal touch. I don’t just run a business—I live this mission every day. I have been where these veterans are. This isn’t a job to me; it’s my purpose.

What makes us different is our commitment to direct, personalized support. We don’t just provide resources

We provide peer-to-peer support to ensure our members never feel alone.

We also expand our reach beyond just veterans, supporting injured federal contractors and foreign nationals who have worked on U.S. military bases and public works projects abroad. Their sacrifices often go unnoticed, and we make sure they aren’t forgotten.

Core Values: Integrity | Transparency | Open Communication

Q11: How has Interconnecting Circles & Communities evolved since its inception?

Our organization has expanded to include connecting injured U.S. citizens and foreign national employees working on U.S. Military Bases or public works projects funded by the U.S. government outside the United States, along with veterans, to medical and legal providers. Since starting, we’ve gained more traction, resources, and supporters. Every interaction has taught me something new, and the feedback we’ve received has been invaluable.

This growth has not only strengthened our mission to be a beacon of support and a resource hub for veterans and injured federal workers but also deepened my resolve to expand and improve our services. We want to continue to provide additional services to our heroes.

“Growth means expanding support—connecting more injured workers and veterans with critical medical and legal resources to ensure no hero is left behind.”

Q12: Can you share a memorable client experience that encapsulated the essence of your Interconnecting Circles & Communities?

I learn something new from each and every veteran. One memorable experience involved a young veteran with an extensive medical history. She felt overwhelmed and uncertain about her future. By providing peer-to-peer support, we were able to connect her with the right resources. Eventually, she was able to secure the myriad benefits she needed. She later shared how this assistance improved her life and gave her daughter a better future. Moments like these remind me why this work is so important.

“Every veteran’s journey is different, but one thing remains the same—we all need support, guidance, and a community. At Interconnecting Circles & Communities, we’re here to be that community.”

Ronald Wherry’s journey demonstrates the power of one person’s determination to create change. What started as volunteering at the American Legion has evolved into a full-scale organization, helping veterans and federal workers access the resources they deserve.

Are you a veteran or contractor in need of support? Call Us on  1-800-793-6838