Chicago Veteran Builds Community, Helps Others After Service

Denisse Montoya connects fellow veterans through movement and advocacy

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Denisse Montoya, a Chicago native and veteran, is on a mission to help fellow veterans find their footing after military life ends. Through partnerships with organizations like Illinois Joining Forces, Merging Vets and Players, and the Jesse Brown VA, Montoya has created spaces for veterans to reconnect through physical activity and community. She also drafts a monthly newsletter highlighting local events and services, and helped secure City Council approval for Women Veteran's Day in Chicago.

Why it matters

Many veterans struggle with the transition to civilian life, facing challenges like anxiety, depression, and a sense of disconnection. Montoya's efforts to build community and connect veterans to resources are crucial in supporting their mental and physical wellbeing during this difficult period.

The details

Montoya leads tough workouts that feel like boot camp, but also provide a space for veterans to share their stories and support one another. Through her partnerships, she has created programs that use sports and movement as a bridge to healing and community. Montoya also advocates for veterans, drafting a monthly newsletter and helping secure City Council approval for Women Veteran's Day in Chicago.

  • Montoya started her efforts to support fellow veterans in 2022.
  • Women Veteran's Day in Chicago was established in 2024.

The players

Denisse Montoya

A Chicago native and veteran who is on a mission to help fellow veterans find their footing after military life ends.

Lourdes Fernando

A veteran who participates in Montoya's programs through Merging Vets and Players, finding community and support after struggling with anxiety and depression.

Amos Albert

A U.S. Navy veteran who describes Montoya as a "game changer" for women in veteran spaces in Illinois.

Illinois Joining Forces

An organization that partners with Montoya to reach more veterans and connect them to resources.

Merging Vets and Players

A program that partners with Montoya to provide community and support for veterans through physical activity.

Jesse Brown VA

A VA medical center that collaborates with Montoya to support veterans' wellbeing.

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What they’re saying

“There was a lot of things happening to me that I didn't really understand… anxiety, depression. That's why I love the veteran space here. It really helped me.”

— Lourdes Fernando, Veteran (wgntv.com)

“She is a game changer in the state of Illinois for women in veteran's spaces.”

— Amos Albert, U.S. Navy Veteran (wgntv.com)

What’s next

Montoya hopes to reach even more veterans through her work with Illinois Joining Forces, connecting them to the resources and community they need to thrive after military service.

The takeaway

Montoya's efforts to build community, provide support, and advocate for veterans demonstrate the power of one person to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served. Her work highlights the importance of addressing the unique challenges veterans face during the transition to civilian life.