Reckers Outreach: A New Path for Veterans and At-Risk Youth in El Paso

In the heart of El Paso, a dedicated new organization is making a difference for two of the most vulnerable communities: homeless veterans and at-risk youth. Recker’s Outreach, founded by local entrepreneur and Army veteran Samantha Recker, is offering a beacon of hope for those who often fall through the cracks of traditional assistance programs.

Launched on Veterans Day 2023, Recker’s Outreach is a unique service focused on providing transitional housing for homeless veterans and a comprehensive eight-week program for at-risk youth. While many services are available for veterans with honorable discharges, Recker’s Outreach fills a critical gap by supporting veterans who don’t meet the stringent qualifications for VA benefits, offering them a safe and supportive environment to rebuild their lives.

Supporting Those Who Need It Most

Samantha Recker, the founder and owner of Recker’s Outreach LLC, explains the heart of the organization: “We provide temporary transitional housing to homeless veterans in El Paso who have honorable or dishonorable discharges but don’t qualify for VA claims or benefits. We also run an eight-week program for at-risk youth who need guidance, structure, and community.”

The program focuses on helping homeless veterans regain stability through housing, job placement, and mental health services. With only three residents housed at a time, veterans are given the space and privacy they need to start fresh. Each veteran has their own living suite, complete with a bedroom, bathroom, and living area. The organization is also working to add more amenities to ensure greater independence for the residents.

“We want them to feel secure, knowing that they won’t have to worry about where they’ll sleep or whether their belongings will be stolen,” says Recker. “For the first 90 days, veterans stay free of charge while we help them secure employment or disability benefits. After that, they only pay one-third of the utility bills, just to help them get back into the routine of responsible decision-making.”

A Hands-On Approach to Mentoring Youth

In addition to its work with veterans, Recker’s Outreach runs a unique program called Reconnecting with the Disconnected—an eight-week initiative designed to guide at-risk youth (ages 14-18) toward positive futures. Held at local VFW halls, the program includes classes on life skills, community service, and character development. Youth participants are also given T-shirts to wear during volunteer work and certificates at the end of the program.

With a nominal $50 enrollment fee, which goes toward covering the costs of materials and community service events, Recker’s goal is to ensure every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to change the course of their life. “These kids are our future,” she says. “They need guidance now before it’s too late. We give them the tools they need to make better choices.”

A Mission Built on Passion and Service

What sets Recker’s Outreach apart from other organizations is its unwavering dedication to helping those who are often overlooked. “Our focus is on people who may not qualify for other resources,” Recker says. “I’m passionate about giving people second chances. No one should be defined by their past mistakes, whether they’re veterans or youth.”

A veteran herself, Recker brings her personal experience to her work. She is a decorated Army veteran, having earned numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal. In addition to her military service, she’s been recognized by local leaders for her work with veterans and the community. Just recently, she received Congressional recognition from Representative Veronica Escobar for her ongoing commitment to service.

Community Support and Future Plans

While Recker’s Outreach is still in its early stages, Recker has been working hard to establish relationships with local organizations to ensure the program’s success. She’s partnered with Combined Arms, a nonprofit that connects veterans to resources, and the Veterans One-Stop program, which helps provide veterans with mental health services.

Recker’s family is also heavily involved. Her children volunteer alongside her, as do past graduates of the youth program. It’s a community effort that is slowly but surely making an impact.

“I’m just passionate about helping people,” Recker says. “It’s not about the accolades or recognition. It’s about giving someone the opportunity to rebuild and create a better future for themselves.”

Looking Ahead

As Recker’s Outreach continues to grow, Recker has big plans for expanding the services offered. With support from local VFWs and other organizations, she hopes to increase the number of residents in the transitional housing program and extend the youth program to reach more young people in need.

Despite the challenges of running the operations on a shoestring budget, Recker is determined to keep the program running and provide a safe, supportive environment for those who need it most. “I’m not in this for the money,” she says. “I just want to help. That’s why I do this.”

For additional information or to get involved, you can reach out to Samantha Recker at recker@reckersoutreachllc.com or through the Recker’s Outreach website www.reckersoutreachllc.com