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Base Camp United Foundation Approved for $1,000 Walmart Spark Good Grant
Base Camp United Foundation Approved for $1,000 Walmart Spark Good Grant We’re excited to share that Base Camp United Foundation has been approved for a $1,000 Walmart Spark Good Local Grant from Facility #8269! This support will help us continue serving homeless and at-risk veterans and their families through essential supplies, community outreach, and connections to resources. As an Army veteran and the foundation’s founder, I know that service doesn’t end when the uniform
willie smith
5 days ago1 min read


The Wall Street Trapper at Good Soil Forum 2026: Your Money Problem May Be Deeper Than Money
Financial Algorithms, Financial Grief, Leadership, and Moving From Survival to Purpose By Willie G. Smith When the Wall Street Trapper took the stage at Good Soil Forum 2026, I expected to hear about investing. Stocks. Markets. Building wealth. Maybe some investment strategies. That's not where he went. Instead, he told the audience that he came to “disrupt your current financial algorithm.” That got my attention. Because before talking about what we should do with money, he
willie smith
Oct 107 min read


The Newson Family Legacy: We Claim Victory Over Victimhood
The Newson Family Legacy tells the story of the Newson, Price, and Smith families before, during, and after Jim Crow. Our ancestors faced slavery, segregation, racism, hardship, and sacrifice—but those struggles do not define the end of our story. They survived, built families, served their country, pursued education, practiced their faith, and created opportunities for the generations that followed. This book preserves their story so our children and grandchildren will know
willie smith
Oct 31 min read


Basecamp United Foundation 2026: A Year of Service, Growth & Community Impact: By Willie G. Smith, Founder & Executive Director of Basecamp United Foundation
As we enter October 2026, the year isn't over—but this is a good time to look at how far Basecamp United Foundation has come. We began the year with a straightforward mission: support homeless and at-risk veterans and their families through outreach, resources, guidance, and referrals. We're still a growing nonprofit. We don't have a multimillion-dollar budget or a massive staff. What we do have is a commitment to veterans and a determination to build an organization capable
willie smith
Oct 34 min read


Reflecting on the Greater Arlington Chamber’s 81st Annual Dinner: Ignition Point
The Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce held its 81st Annual Dinner on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at the Loews Arlington Hotel & Convention Center. The formal evening brought attention to the leadership, entrepreneurship, collaboration, and community spirit that continue to move Arlington forward. This year’s theme, Ignition Point, celebrated the moment when potential becomes progress. Every successful business, nonprofit initiative, community partnership, and bold new vent
willie smith
Sep 233 min read


The Newson Family Legacy — Official Book Release September 7, 2026
The Newson Family Legacy Arrives September 7, 2026 A Legacy Written. A History Preserved. I am proud to announce the official release of my new book, The Newson Family Legacy: The Newson, Price, and Smith Family Story Before, During, and After Jim Crow, on September 7, 2026. This book represents years of family research, personal reflection, historical records, photographs, newspaper articles, military documents, census records, marriage records, and stories passed down throu
willie smith
Aug 224 min read


Building Connections at the Veteran Business Council
On August 4, 2026, I attended the Veteran Business Council meeting at the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce. It was an eventful meeting that allowed me to make new contacts and strengthen connections within the veteran business community. I also enjoyed an informative presentation by Mallory Morris of the Veteran Business Council Board. One of the highlights of the meeting was receiving an invitation to participate in a mental health platform on September 18 at Mountain V
willie smith
Aug 41 min read


July Chamber After Hours at Canales Furniture
One of the biggest surprises was discovering the incredible showroom upstairs—it felt like stepping into an entirely new world. The event also celebrated the Canales family’s anniversary, and one of the Canales sisters delivered a powerful rendition of the national anthem. I had an amazing time attending the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce’s July Chamber After Hours event at Canales Furniture on July 28, 2026. The food was outstanding, the hospitality was first-class, a
willie smith
Aug 31 min read


Wear the Mission: Basecamp United Foundation Apparel
More than apparel—it’s a mission you can wear. 🇺🇸 Every Basecamp United Foundation purchase helps us raise awareness and support homeless and at-risk veterans with dignity, essential supplies, and connections to valuable resources. Stand up for those who served. Shop now and wear the mission. 🛒 Shop: basecampunitedfoundation.org #BasecampUnitedFoundation #WearTheMission #SupportOurVeterans #VeteranSupport #HomelessVeterans #VeteransHelpingVeterans #ArlingtonTX #DFWVeterans
willie smith
Jul 261 min read


Military Asbestos Exposure: Veterans Face a Hidden Health Risk Decades Later
For decades, asbestos was prized by the military for its fire resistance and durability. As a result, service members across Navy vessels, Army barracks, Air Force, and Marine Corps facilities worked in environments where asbestos dust was common. Navy veterans face the highest risk due to the concentration of asbestos products in ship engine rooms, boiler spaces, piping insulation, and quarters, though vehicle mechanics, pipefitters, and demolition crews on bases were also e
willie smith
Jul 241 min read


Member Spotlight: Supporting Homeless Veterans with Basecamp United Foundation
In this Member Spotlight, Bryan Weatherford talks with Willie Smith of Base Camp United Foundation about his mission to support homeless veterans through outreach, hygiene kits, community partnerships and housing initiatives. Willie shares how his military background and years working with veterans inspired him to launch the foundation and why the organization's "No One Left Behind" initiative continues to guide its work today. "When you step forward, but you still look behin
willie smith
Jul 11 min read


Member Spotlight
In this Member Spotlight, Bryan Weatherford talks with Willie Smith of Base Camp United Foundation about his mission to support homeless veterans through outreach, hygiene kits, community partnerships and housing initiatives. Willie shares how his military background and years working with veterans inspired him to launch the foundation and why the organization's "No One Left Behind" initiative continues to guide its work today. "When you step forward, but you still look behin
willie smith
Jun 191 min read


Turning Pain into Purpose
How Faith, Service, and Community Can Restore Hope There are moments in life that test everything you believe about yourself. Moments when pain feels heavier than purpose. Moments when trauma, loss, disappointment, or struggle try to convince you that your story is over. For many veterans and individuals facing hardship, those moments are not temporary — they become daily battles. Behind the uniforms, the smiles, and the silence are real people fighting invisible wars. PTSD.
willie smith
May 273 min read


Arlington Small Business Resource Expo 2026 Brings Entrepreneurs Together at Texas Live!
On April 30, 2026, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community organizations from across North Texas gathered at Texas Live! in Arlington for the 3rd Annual Arlington Small Business Resource Expo. Hosted by the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce and presented by Frost Bank, the event continued its mission of connecting small businesses with the tools, partnerships, and resources needed to grow and succeed. Held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the expo attracted more than 1,000
willie smith
May 212 min read


The 12-Week Course Changing How Nonprofits Build Talent
📜 Channel Disclaimer: The content shared on Basecamp United Foundation is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The video highlights a presentation on a 12-week learning series from the Center for Nonprofit Management, focusing on investment in professionals for business growth. This initiative supports nonprofit organizations by providing strategic planning and professional development crucial for effective nonprofit leadership. It's a vital resource for
willie smith
Apr 221 min read


Stop Talking Start Serving | Arlington's Heart Outreach Program
ecamp United Foundation is teaming up with Spread the Love Ministries and the Arlington Police Department to serve our community in a powerful way. Join us on March 29 from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at Gene Allen Park in Arlington as we come together to feed the homeless, share compassion, and make a real difference . This is about unity, service, and showing love in action. All are welcome to come out, volunteer, or support the mission. Let’s stand together and serve where it matt
willie smith
Mar 191 min read


Understanding the Challenges: Women Veterans and Homelessness
Today, I want to address the critical issue of why women veterans face a higher risk of homelessness and mental distress. This topic is close to my heart, as I believe every veteran deserves a safe place to call home. The Struggles Women Veterans Face Women veterans often encounter unique challenges. Many have served in combat roles, yet they may not receive the same recognition or support as their male counterparts. This can lead to feelings of isolation and neglect. Mental
willie smith
Feb 162 min read


Vital Support for Homeless Veterans: Finding Hope and Help
Every day, many veterans face the harsh reality of homelessness. After serving their country, they deserve a chance to rebuild their lives with dignity. I want to share some vital information about the support available to help veterans find housing, jobs, and essential services. This post is designed to guide you through practical options and resources that can make a real difference. Understanding Support for Homeless Veterans When you’re struggling with homelessness, it ca
willie smith
Feb 93 min read
Grateful for Support: 4imprint One by One Grant
We are incredibly grateful to 4imprint for selecting us as a recipient of the 4imprint One by One Grant in the amount of $500. This generous support helps us continue our mission and move forward with meaningful work that serves our community.
willie smith
Jan 232 min read
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