Reel Warriors Foundation
Reel Warriors Foundation is a nonprofit that gives veterans a break from everyday life through saltwater fishing and outdoor activity. Our mission is to give veterans an opportunity to connect after their time and service and give them a much-needed break.
When veterans leave the military, they lose a massive part of their lives, which is the camaraderie and unity while in service. Not having that community can lead to isolation, depression, and anxiety.
Many men and women join the military not knowing the bonds that will be formed once they step off the bus and enter into boot camp. Whether a Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, Coast Guardsman, or Guardian, they have all served their time to our nation.
Many times after service, veterans return home to a situation very much like the time before their service, surrounded by people who don't share common experiences, making them feel alone. These veterans can start to isolate themselves, which can lead to a road of depression and anxiety. Our mission is to mitigate this situation and reconnect.
The time spent on the water gives our veterans a much needed break, and the opportunity to connect with other veterans. While out on our charters, our veterans are connected with 20-30 other veterans who served. Whether or not they served in combat does not matter.
They all signed a commitment to protect our nation. Not only are they able to catch some fish, they spend a lot of time sharing with others that have similar experiences, and a bond is created almost instantly.
Joseph served in the United States Marine Corps from 1999-2004 as a Helicopter Crewchief. While serving, he traveled throughout the world and was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. After leaving the Marine Corps, Joey completed his education with a degree in Computer Information Systems. He is now a Residential Loan Officer helping educate Veterans about the benefits of the VA Home Loan throughout the United States.
Nicholas joined the United States Army in 2002, serving as a Medic with light infantry units for 10 years. During that time he deployed to Iraq three times from 2003-2004, 2006-2008, and 2010-2011. Following his service, he attended Chapman University, double-majoring in Health Sciences and Philosophy. He graduated in 2019 and is currently completing his PhD in philosophy at Bowling Green State University in Ohio.
Chris Woodburn is a United States Marine Corps veteran who served with 1st Battalion 1st Marines as an Infantry Machine Gunner from 2005 to 2009. Following an honorable discharge, he pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. He furthered his academic achievements with a dual Master's of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance and Management & Leadership from the University of La Verne. Presently, Chris holds the role of Investment Operations Assistant Vice President at Capital Group. In his leisure time, he enjoys fishing, camping, and hiking.
Cheryl is married and is a Gold Star Mother. Her son served in the Navy. She has a daughter who is married to a veteran marine. Cheryl has three beautiful grandchildren. Cheryl is a retired elementary school office secretary. When she is not volunteering with Reel Warriors Foundation, she enjoys fishing, surfing, and traveling through Baja California, Mexico. She serves as the Secretary on the Reel Warriors Foundation Board of Directors. Her duties include attending meetings, recording and maintaining meeting minutes and board bylaws, ensuring activities are in accordance with bylaws, and voting on board decisions.
Josh Haywood is a veteran of the United States Navy where he served as a Fire Controlman on the USS Kitty Hawk from 1994-1999. After leaving the service, Josh rejoined the Navy Reserves in late 2001 following the September 11th attack and served there for another 2 years. Josh is a business owner, avid golfer, and member of the Elks Lodge. Josh started volunteering with Reel Warriors Foundation in 2020 where he first served as an ambassador. In 2023, he joined the Board of Directors where he is currently responsible for the coordination of fundraising events and sponsorships. When he is not volunteering his time with Reel Warriors, he enjoys woodworking, blacksmithing, golfing, and spending time with his family.
Our ability to continue to support our veterans depends on the generosity of individuals and companies that believe in our mission. Please consider supporting us with your tax-deductable donation.
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