What is The Missouri Children and Veterans Project?
This is a grassroots project created with a simple purpose: to identify, support, and help direct resources toward those I hold close to my heart — our children and our veterans.
Why Missouri, and not another state? The answer is simple: Missouri is where I currently live. However, I have also called many other states home throughout my life. The need for compassion, awareness, and action is not limited by state lines.
Every day, children are subjected to abuse, assault, human trafficking, and other unimaginable hardships. The reality of these situations is painful, and the impact reaches far beyond the individual child. It affects families, communities, and generations.
Our veterans also face challenges long after their service ends. Many struggle with being forgotten, mistreated, isolated, homeless, or left to face their battles alone. The uniform may be put away, but the experiences and sacrifices often remain.
I understand that a small grassroots effort and a long-named website will not solve these issues by itself. But every meaningful movement begins with someone willing to take the first step.
As the saying goes: “When you lead by example, others will follow and become leaders themselves.”
These are not just words to me; they represent a philosophy I strive to live by, both personally and professionally.
As a veteran myself, I have learned from many incredible people I had the privilege to serve alongside — many of whom I still proudly call friends today. Their examples, sacrifices, and dedication continue to influence me.
This effort is not about claiming to be the beginning. I see myself as part of a continuation — carrying forward the work of the many organizations and individuals who have already taken up this cause and carried the torch.
My goal is to raise awareness within my community, provide support where I can, and help strengthen the efforts of organizations throughout the United States that dedicate themselves to protecting children and supporting veterans.
Sometimes change starts with one person willing to stand up and say: “I will help.”
