Imagine losing everything in a house fire—so devastating it left you and your family with nowhere to go. That’s the reality Percel Darden faced. At 61, this veteran, musician, father of six, and man of many trades found himself starting over. Today, Percel and his family are rebuilding their lives in Durham, North Carolina, with the help of the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program at Volunteers of America.
Born and raised in Wilson, NC, Percel grew up in a close-knit family with eight siblings, rooted in love, laughter, and legacy. His father—a humble yet remarkable man who served as both a community leader and a bishop—modeled integrity and purpose.
“My father was known for his wisdom and uncommon wisdom. He was the most blameless men I’ve ever known. He never missed a bill, he never was unfaithful, he never told a lie to his wife, and loved us all deeply. He was everything a honorable man should be.” – Percel
The values instilled by his father led Percel to a life of hard work and service. Straight out of high school at age 17, he enlisted in the Air Force and served for 11 years in surgical operations and orthopedics, later continuing in the reserves. Throughout his life, he’s worn many hats—builder, musician, artist, teacher—and poured himself into every role, often sacrificing personal pursuits for the good of his family.
“I always wanted to go to college, to study science, maybe architecture. But like my dad, I made choices that put family first. When you follow what God wants for your life, He provides.” – Percel
In 2023, Percel and his wife faced an unimaginable challenge: a fire on their property destroyed vehicles, equipment, and buildings—including the woodworking tools they had invested in to build a new future.
“I stood there watching it all go up in flames. Four fire departments responded. It was devastating. But we were alive. That was the blessing.” – Percel
The fire left the Dardens displaced and financially drained. They lived out of a Hilton hotel for months, unable to cook meals and steadily depleting their savings. That’s when they were connected to Volunteers of America through the VA’s Veterans Hotline—and everything began to change.
“We were introduced to the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program in Durham, and it was like God opened a door. Chris Hoover, our case manager, was relentless. He never gave up on us.” – Percel
Percel credits Chris and the entire SSVF team with helping his family transition into permanent housing, receive essential furniture and appliances through MMIA (Military Missions in Action), and even provide Christmas gifts for their son.
“They made us feel seen, heard, and supported like we truly mattered. I even told my wife, ‘If VOA ever switched gears and opened a pizza shop, it would be the best in town.’ That’s how exceptional their team is.” – Percel
Today, Percel and his wife are not only housed—they’re thriving. They recently welcomed their second child together, a baby girl named Jadah Rose. Percel, ever the teacher, is spending more time with his children—instilling in them the same values his father passed down to him.
“My 4-year-old already understands molecular principles and basic astronomy. That’s what VOA has given us—time, space, and peace to pour into our family.” – Percel
To anyone facing loss or transition, Percel offers wisdom forged through faith and fire:
“Let God order your steps. Don’t move unless He says so. If you follow Him, He will not fail you.” – Percel
To learn more about our Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program in North Carolina, visit: www.voachesapeake.org/ssvf-nc