Chapter: Team RWB Midwest / Dayton

Member Since: 2014

Motto: “If you rest, you rust. -Ed Ritchie”

Why Did You Join Team RWB?

“I joined Team RWB shortly after my best friend and someone I consider a brother took his own life. He had countless transition issues from back to back to back deployments in the Army Reserve. We were very close and shared deep conversations about life, love, and family. From that moment forward, I searched for an organization that would help people like my friend in aiding the transitioning to a family community environment. I found Team RWB at a wheelchair basketball game for disabled veterans and felt an immediate spark to “be the change” in my own area. Shortly thereafter, I started Team RWB Dayton with some flag shorts, my Team RWB Eagle Shirt, and an American Flag.”

What has Been Your Favorite Event or Experience with Team RWB?

“When I first started here in Dayton, I found most of the athletic events to be challenging and equally rewarding. Through the camaraderie and teaching of other Eagles, I started participating in activities I never thought I would do. The support of this Team inspired me to keep pushing and never give up. When we became more involved in the community and the Dayton VA, I saw what my true passion was with this Team; connecting authentically. I took more out of giving food to poor communities and serving our disabled veterans at the Dayton VA. There truly is something to be said about the personal growth that happens within both hearts when you make that genuine connection with another human being who’s struggling. Bringing down your barriers to serve others is the best thing you can do for others and the personal reward to yourself is immeasurable.”

How Do You Serve Your Community?

“I am the Team RWB Dayton Veteran Engagement Director. I host our monthly VA Bingo Night, Karaoke Night, Honor Flight, and any other significant veteran centered activity. I also provide veteran resources to vets in the local area to better assist them in their specific need.”

What Inspires You?

“Inspiration can come in many forms with Team RWB Family! Seeing a new member in a Team RWB Eagle shirt is inspiring because I can build one more connection to the vastly growing Dayton community. I’m inspired by the selflessness of this Team in coming together to say help a family in dire straits or assist a new Eagle in transitioning to our family community of brothers and sisters.”

How Has Team RWB Impacted Your Life?

“Team RWB saved my life, in a time where I had a lot of unanswered questions about how I could contribute. I found a purpose, a platform to properly tell my story and my friend’s. With the consistent events that we have in Dayton, we’ve built a foundation that doesn’t hold judgement in their heart and is proud to “Wear the Eagle,” enriching lives every day! Through this organization I have added 900 people to my family tree, met the love of my life Janene, and am excited to welcome baby “Eaglet” Ritchie in May!“

What Would You Say to Someone Who is Thinking of Joining Team RWB?

“Don’t be afraid to jump right in. With so much negativity in this world, I guarantee Team RWB will positively affect your life for the better. We have events for everyone with no pressure to come out. Come when you can! We’d love to see you!“