Chapter: Team RWB Southeast Region / Daytona Chapter

Member Since: 2013

Motto: “No rearview mirrors, everything I need is in front of me.”

Why Did You Join Team RWB?

“I joined the Team because at the time I was navigating the VA for my service connected injuries. At almost every visit to a VA hospital or Clinic I would engage with at least one veteran who was having a similar or other issue and some just did not no where to go. My wife and I were invited to dinner by Bobby Colello and Kim Cap who were working with the Orlando Chapter. After a couple of hours we both felt as though we had to become a part of the Team. Before I knew what happened my wife Lani is a Chapter Captain and I get recruited to be a Veterans Outreach Director. Since I don’t get to tell 5’4″ 125lbs of Samoan fury no I dove in and got to work. Over the past 4 years I believe I have made a difference in the lives of many Veterans and have increased our communities awareness of Veterans issues.”

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

“Two events stand out in my mind that really made an impact on me. Two years ago Team RWB made it possible for me to attend the NADCP conference in D.C. and take part in the mentor bootcamp for Veterans Treatment Court. After three days of talking to Judges and mentor coordinators as well as some Team RWB members that were on the panel I left there on a mission. Our local Veterans court is now doing great things to help Veterans in need. Our recidivism rate is 8% as compared to a regular criminal court that runs at 48%. Thank you for the opportunity . The other event took place just a couple of weeks ago in Tampa. I was asked to come to the Eagle Leader Academy where after just 2 days of sharing and learning we all left Tampa with a stronger passion to lead. Thank you to all who were involved.”

How Do You Serve Your Community?

“Twice a month I attend our Veterans court and coordinate our mentors to provide assistance to our justice involved vets. Monthly I speak at our local VA clinic to their MOVE program participants. I also spend time helping at our Veterans Nursing home where we take residents to lunch or special events. Our Daytona Chapter has adopted a highway were once a quarter we gather to do cleanup on the roadside and then sit down together for breakfast. All of which are very rewarding.“

What Inspires You?

“I am inspired any time I see what an impact something that our Team or I have done to change the life of one of our Veterans or community members. Identifying a need and helping to meet that need through services or just listening. A Teammate that we lost last year told me before he passed that the best time of his life was after he joined Team RWB. RIP Marine.”

How Has Team RWB Impacted Your Life?

“Team RWB has given me mission that I work on almost every day. Not a day goes by that I don’t receive a phone call or a contact from a Teammate or someone that has a question about the Team or if I know of a service to help whatever issue they may have. I like knowing that these people can trust me enough to reach out and ask me for guidance or advice or direction. I also know that I can reach out and get that same type of assistance if needed. Some people say you can count your true friends on one hand, I say engage with Team RWB and your gonna need a bigger hand.“

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

“If someone has gotten to the point where they are thinking about joining us or any group they obviously are looking for something whether it be guidance or camaraderie so I tell them that the only way to complete what ever mission or journey that they are on is to become engaged. No one can change the past, but being part of a Team that is about People, Positivity, and Passion can surely make the future brighter. Everything you need is in front of you.“