First Annual Poker Run to Benefit Veterans with PTSD and Housing Support This Memorial Day
A new Memorial Day weekend tradition is rolling into town, and it’s more than just a scenic ride. On Saturday, May 24, the American Veterans Motorcycle Club (AVMC) Houston Chapter will host its First Annual Poker Run, an open-invitation fundraiser supporting three Houston-based organizations working to help veterans heal and thrive after service.
The event begins at 2:00 PM at EJ’s Place (16460 Kuykendahl Rd) and ends at Old City Pub (14124 Stuebner Airline Rd) around 5:30 PM, with five stops along the route where riders will draw cards to build their best poker hand. A $250 prize will be awarded to the top hand at 7:00 PM.
“This event isn’t just about the ride,” said a representative from the AVMC. “It’s about coming together as a community to show our gratitude and support for those who have served. Every dollar raised goes directly to organizations doing critical work for our veterans.”
The American Veterans Motorcycle Club Houston Chapter, organizers of the Poker Run, is a community of honorably serving and former service members from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces who are united by their love of riding and their shared commitment to defending the freedoms they once fought for. Dedicated to presenting a positive image of veterans as motorcyclists, the club actively supports charitable events, advocates for POW/MIA accountability, and upholds a deep-rooted philosophy of honor, respect, and lifelong brotherhood.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Riding for a Purpose
Funds raised from the Poker Run will benefit Camp Hope, The Living Legacy Center, and PTSD of America — all local groups focused on providing mental health support, housing, outreach, and recovery programs for veterans and their families.
Camp Hope, a program run by the PTSD Foundation of America, offers residential treatment and peer mentoring for veterans struggling with combat-related post-traumatic stress. Located in northwest Houston, it provides both structure and community for individuals working through trauma and adjusting to civilian life.
The Living Legacy Center, based in the Houston area, offers ongoing support for veterans, their families, and Gold Star families through educational programming, resource navigation, and community engagement. Their mission emphasizes long-term care and connection, not just crisis response.
Together, these organizations are tackling the complex challenges that many veterans face after their military service ends — from mental health to housing instability to family reintegration.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Why Supporting Veterans Matters
Veterans often return home with unique and ongoing needs that extend far beyond their active-duty years. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 11–20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom experience PTSD in a given year. That number remains significant for veterans from earlier conflicts as well — about 12% of Gulf War veterans and 15% of Vietnam War veterans report PTSD symptoms.
The challenges don’t stop at mental health. In 2023, the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness estimated that over 35,000 veterans experienced homelessness on a single night. While that number has declined in recent years due to outreach and housing programs, many veterans still struggle to access consistent care, employment, and community support.
Family members of veterans are often part of the recovery process but face their own difficulties — from caregiver burnout to navigating complex VA systems. Organizations like Camp Hope and The Living Legacy Center not only help veterans but also provide critical wraparound support for their families.
Together, these organizations are tackling the complex challenges that many veterans face after their military service ends — from mental health to housing instability to family reintegration.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Event Details
The Poker Run is open to all vehicles, not just motorcycles. Participants can join in cars, trucks, or any road-worthy ride. The entry fee is $30 and includes one poker hand. Additional hands can be purchased for $20 each, whether for a passenger or for added chances to win.
In addition to the ride itself, the event will include silent auctions with gift baskets and donated items, with all proceeds going directly to the benefiting organizations.
A Community Call
Set during Memorial Day weekend, the ride offers a way for Houstonians to reflect, give back, and spend time with neighbors for a cause that hits close to home.
“There’s a lot of need, but also a lot of good work being done,” said Tammy Easley of The Living Legacy Center. “This ride is a way for people to contribute — whether they’re veterans, family members, or just neighbors who care.”
For more information, to donate, or to become a sponsor, contact Tammy Easley with The Living Legacy Center at 615-474-1517 or tammy.easley@livinglegacycenter.com. Visit livinglegacycenter.com for details.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.