Former Air Force Vet and Two-Time Kean Alumni Gives Back to Vets

By Matthew Sierra | Published December 7, 2023

Tim Awojobi is a six-year Air Force Vet and two-time Kean Alumni. His goal is to give back to the veterans who are still struggling to adjust to civilian life.

In 2016, Awojobi enlisted in the 514 Force Support Squadron, and by August 2021, he began hisactive duty supporting the Afghan refugee mission. With several medals and decorations, such as the Air Force Commendation Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal, he has since been honorably discharged in 2022and is now focused on giving back to those who served this country and who have not been given the help that truly needed by the VA (Veteran Affairs).

“A lot of vets have been failed by the VA for receiving disability, and vets have been fighting for disabilities claims that have been dismissed or denied,” Awojobi said. “I feel very obligated to give back to veterans and to connect with vets across all of NJ.”

After he was discharged, Awojobi had expected that he would have received more help from the VA. This is a similar and common issue that veterans deal with.

“I failed as a minority veteran; I expected the VA to help me out,” He said.

This led him to take matters into his own hands by assisting veterans get the help that they deserve. TTA Empire, Inc. is a non-profit organization that offers help to veterans in ways that the VA hasn’t. They provide services such as educational scholarships, programs, and funding for housing assistance, relocation, mental health and wellness programs, and connectionsto community resources.

“TTA Empire is seeking to be full support and future partner with the VA to help them combat veteran’s needs,” Awojobi said.

Running an organization like TTA Empire takes a lot of dedication. However, Awojobi dedicates every chance he gets to be there for veterans in the best way possible. Awojobi takes pride in being there for the veterans in need and gives back to them in many different ways.

“My weekends are getting involved with homeless shelters, backpack drives, etc.,” He said. 

Although he felt failed by the VA after his six years in the Air Force, Awojobi would rather work with the VA than against it. The VA has helped veterans in their own way to the best of their abilities. But for those who fought for the United States, what the VA is giving just isn’t enough.

“I am not against the VA; I am here to assist them and make them better,” Awojobi said.

After seeing major success with TTA Empire, Inc., Awojobi was honored by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy for Military Service and Support of Local Veterans.

Awojobi, in addition to being the working CEO of his non-profit organization, doubles as a sales associate for Coldwell Banker Realty in East Brunswick, NJ, while also pursuing his doctoral degree in Organizational Leadership.

 With all the amazing things he has done and will do in the future, Awojobi is still showing his appreciation and respect to the men and women who fought for this country.

---