My name is Brion Bivins, and I'm from Akron, Ohio. My life has been a journey of resilience and service, shaped by experiences that have instilled in me a deep desire to make a difference. Alongside my wife of 19 years, Danielle, we've embarked on a mission that extends beyond ourselves - a mission that impacts the lives of many others.

 

Our journey was born out of personal experiences and empathy. As a young boy, I faced homelessness and witnessed the devastating effects of substance abuse, which eventually claimed the life of a parent. These experiences left an indelible mark on me, instilling a deep sense of compassion for those facing similar challenges.

 

In 2002, I joined the Navy, marking the beginning of a 20-year military career that would see me transition to the Coast Guard after four years. I served on two ships, participated in six deployments, and supported search and rescue missions at two small boat security stations. Throughout my service, we were stationed at six different locations across the country, and it was during these times that we noticed a growing number of homeless veterans. This sight deeply moved us and ignited a spark to make a difference.

 

While serving the country, Danielle supported myself and our two sons while obtaining her bachelor's in accounting and gaining 14 years of invaluable expertise as a business consultant to several government agencies and Fortune 500 companies. Together, we are raising our two sons to understand the importance of service and community.

 

In 2023, this spark led us to establish The VetPride Project. Our non-profit organization is dedicated to serving veterans and formerly incarcerated individuals, providing them with the support and resources they need to rebuild their lives.

 

But The VetPride Project is more than just a non-profit organization; it's a beacon of hope. It's a community where those who have served our country and those seeking a second chance after incarceration can find dignity, belonging, and the support they need to navigate their journey ahead.

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                                      The VetPride Project is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, EIN # 99-0467206

                                                             Donations can be made by contacting:

                                                                                   info@vetpride.org