by Josh Kohn
On a bitterly cold Thursday evening, December 11, 2025, the Carroll County community gathered in force for a moment that blended celebration, gratitude, and bold vision for the future. Despite temperatures hovering around 20 degrees, an estimated 50 to 75 people attended the Carroll County Veteran’s Independence Project event, bundled in coats and scarves, warming themselves near propane space heaters as smiles and conversation filled the air.
The atmosphere was unmistakably happy and electric. This was not just another winter gathering—it was a milestone moment for an organization that has become a cornerstone of service and advocacy for veterans and their families.
Jason Sidock, Executive Director of the organization now known simply as VIP (Veteran’s Independence Project), addressed the crowd with passion and pride. Once called the Carroll County Veteran’s Independence Project, the organization recently dropped the “CC” from its name as its mission and reach have expanded into neighboring counties. Sidock reflected on the growth of VIP and its deep roots in the community, from organizing Veterans Day parades to providing rides to medical appointments and cutting through bureaucratic barriers that often stand between veterans and the benefits they’ve earned.
“I am so proud to be associated with the veterans in this county,” Sidock said. “I can’t wait to start this project.”
The “project” he referenced is nothing short of transformational. Thanks to an exciting $1,000,000 federal earmark pushed through by Congressman Johnny Olszewski and Senator Chris Van Hollen, VIP has officially launched a capital campaign to raise $5 million for a future Freedom Center Campus to be built somewhere near Westminster. The earmark served as the catalyst to move the vision forward and energize community support.
The planned campus—still in its early planning stages—will include a large multi-purpose building for events, training, and general use, a chapel, tiny houses, and a sprawling, thoughtfully designed campus aimed at addressing veteran homelessness, helping families navigate life after service, and cutting through the red tape of bureaucracy so veterans can receive the benefits they deserve.
Standing among supporters was John Woodley, Chairman of the Board of VIP, whose leadership has helped guide the organization through a period of significant growth. Woodley, owner of Trusted Technologies and head varsity soccer coach of Manchester Valley Hight School, has played a key role in expanding VIP’s vision, partnerships, and community impact.
Peri Odenwald, the Constituent Affairs and Outreach Liaison representative from Congressman Olszewski’s office spoke briefly, offering words of appreciation and support for VIP’s mission. Shortly afterward, several veterans stepped forward to unveil a banner officially announcing the $5 million fundraising campaign—a powerful visual symbol of momentum and hope.
The evening also carried a festive, family-friendly spirit. Two military vehicles—a Hum-V and the Mission Barbeque truck—were on display, drawing interest and conversation. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, portrayed in impressively realistic form, delighted attendees and posed for photos, adding warmth and charm to the frigid night.
Following Sidock’s remarks, the crowd gathered for a ceremonial countdown led by a representative from Mission Barbeque. As voices counted down together, a towering 40-foot conifer tree burst to life in a stunning display of lights, prompting cheers and applause. The moment felt symbolic—lighting the way forward for veterans and the community alike.
Veteran Michael Pennington also shared his personal experience with VIP, crediting the organization with helping him navigate and cut through red tape with the Veterans Administration. “I am happy to be involved with VIP, they’re a great group of people,” Pennington said. A leader of the local Masons Lodge, Pennington recently joined the board of VIP, further strengthening the organization’s leadership.
As heaters flickered, lights glowed, and conversations lingered in the cold air, one thing was clear: this was more than an event—it was a turning point. For VIP, for veterans, and for the Carroll County community, it is an exciting time, and the future looks brighter than ever.
