Full Battle Rattle Deli

“In the military, Full Battle Rattle means that you get your gear and are ready to move out. At Full Battle Rattle Deli, we are also ready to move out, but into our communities to serve and support our veteran brothers and sisters.” Michael Gropper, owner of Full Battle Rattle Deli says.

The idea for Full Battle Rattle came about after an experience Gropper had with a veteran who was homeless at the VA hospital. The staff made a mistake and did not call him in a timely manner. Although he got very upset, the situation was quickly resolved in a short amount of time. However, that experience gave Gropper a thought. That what that veteran needed more than just medical care was to be heard, seen and recognized: cared for. On the way home that night Gropper thought about what had happened, considering ways that he could serve other veterans who needed the same things. Veterans who had given so much but were struggling to get back on their feet. Reflecting on his own skills and life experiences, Gropper came up with Full Battel Rattle Deli. A program focused on supporting fellow veterans who are homeless and in transition through jobs and education in the culinary arts.

Full Battle Rattle Deli is a sandwich serving food truck, however, Gropper considers it to be more than that; a caused based vehicle for social change. Their mission is to support veterans one sandwich at a time, providing culinary arts training to veterans who are experiencing homelessness and in transition. “Where others may prioritize money first in their business, ours to take care of our fellow veterans.” Gropper says.

“The Denver Metro SBDC has supported me with the mentorship, guidance and support to make my idea a business reality. From the Leading Edge for Entrepreneurs program to individual mentoring, I have been able to learn the skills and acquire the tools I needed to build this business and run it effectively.” Gropper says.

Right now, Full Battle Rattle Deli is looking to raise money to build a permanent kitchen so that they can provide 6-week culinary arts programs to veterans who are experiencing homelessness and in transition.

You can find them on their website – https://fullbattlerattledeli.com or on Facebook at @FullBattleRattleDeli.

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