Though small in stature, Denisse Montoya possesses a heart as big as her dedication to helping fellow veterans. Utilizing the warrior ethos she embraced in the military, Montoya uses physical fitness and community support to assist veterans in need.
In collaboration with Illinois Joining Forces, the Jesse Brown VA in Chicago, and the Merging Vets and Players, Montoya spearheads an intense boot camp. This workout leaves participants sweating and eager for more while providing therapeutic benefits through movement and connection.
“It’s like, OK, let’s do this together,” Montoya shared with WGN 9 in Chicago. “Let’s lift you up, let’s lift each other up.”
Despite her height, Montoya’s commanding presence is felt as she motivates participants through challenging exercises like lunges, sit-ups, and relays. Even when the going gets tough, Montoya and her fellow veterans encourage one another, embodying the principle of leaving no soldier behind.
“We all need assistance and support sometimes,” she recently reminded her class.
After nearly a decade at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Montoya, an Air Force veteran and former security forces specialist, took on the role of development and program coordinator for Illinois Joining Forces in October 2025.
Connection After Exercise
Following the rigorous workouts, Montoya encourages participants to gather in a circle to discuss personal challenges, offering veterans a path to regain direction and purpose post-service.
“I’ve seen peers going to combat and come back and they’re like a completely different person in their personality, character, physically, emotionally, mentally,” Montoya noted.
The emotional weight of these sessions can sometimes surpass even the physical exertion, as participants share their stories.
“There was a lot of things happening to me that I didn’t really understand… anxiety, depression,” shared Lourdes Fernando of Merging Vets and Players. “That’s why I love the veteran space here. It really helped me.”
In Montoya’s classes, veterans find support to overcome both physical and mental obstacles.
On February 11, Merging Vets and Players organized a curling event at the Windy City Sports Clinic, where veterans could try a new sport and access information on various programs available in Chicago.
“Whether you need connection with housing, employment, family support, we’re here for you,” Montoya emphasized.
Helping Others Makes Her Happy
Montoya’s efforts extend beyond the gym, as she dedicates time at home to crafting a monthly newsletter that highlights local events and services for veterans.
In 2024, Montoya’s advocacy led to the Chicago City Council officially recognizing June 12 as Women Veteran’s Day.
Amos Albert, a Navy veteran and regular attendee of Montoya’s boot camp, praised her influence, stating, “She is a game changer in the state of Illinois for women in veteran’s spaces. When name’s start getting dropped, Denisse Montoya’s will usually come up.”
Despite the extensive volunteer hours, Montoya finds fulfillment in her work. “It makes me happy, so why not do something that makes you happy?” she remarked. “The things you think you’re giving – you’re getting 10 times that much more back.”
Montoya encourages veterans to reach out to Illinois Joining Forces for information on resources and programs available in their state.
