OUR MISSION
To minimize the veteran suicide rate, free veterans from the imprisonment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
About Fort Freedom
Fort Freedom was founded in 2019 by a U.S. Army Veteran to address the urgent need for expanded PTSD treatment and Veteran suicide prevention. At the time, rates of under-treated PTSD among military members had reached unprecedented highs.
Our Mission
The mission of Fort Freedom is to minimize the veteran suicide rate, free Veterans from the imprisonment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and guide them to a newfound sense of purpose.
Our Approach
Fort Freedom offers an intensive 12-week life-restoring program developed by Veterans, for Veterans. We take a holistic approach supported by fitness, nutrition, trauma therapy and other wellness-based services. This program provides Veterans with the tools and support needed to take control of their lives. Our program does more than hold hands - it throws a rope to Veterans struggling with PTSD and emotional scars from military service. Fort Freedom also provides tailored 12-week virtual therapy curriculums for male Veterans, female Veterans, and family members impacted by PTSD. This program creates immediate access to care with a masters level therapist, no matter where you are located.
Our Advocacy
We actively collaborate with legislative representatives to advocate for improved Veteran care in all facets of life. By partnering with policy makers, Fort Freedom aims to enact real change for the Veteran community.
The Executive Team
Jerry Haffey, Jr.
Founder and Chair
Glenn Sime, Jr.
Program Director
Zute Weick
Chief Operating Officer
Samantha Jackson
Secretary
Chelsea Platas
Chief Development Officer
Marc Chiurato
Treasurer
Board of Directors
Cris Carter
Board of Directors
Dania Slim
Board of Directors
Jerry Haffey, Sr.
Board of Directors
Shereen M. Vahabzadeh
Board of Directors
William T. Mandia
Board of Directors
John C. Brandes
Honorary Board Member
Aaron Steinberg
Board of Directors
Kathleen Clouse
Board of Directors
Jim Smith
Honorary Board Member
Jeff Miller
Honorary Board Member
Honorary Board Members
A Personal Note from Dr. Keller about Fort Freedom:
I work with adults that have endured significant trauma in all aspects of life. Early childhood trauma, community violence, physical and sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, terrorism, combat and war trauma. My interest in working with the Fort Freedom Initiative came about from having the privilege to work with veterans suffering from PTSD. I was, and continue to be, in awe of their resilience in working through and overcoming the darkness and inexplicable hardships that they have endured. By working with veterans and offering the opportunity to heal in the context of dignity, safety and compassion, they are able to overcome the complexities of trauma. I am indeed honored, humbled and grateful to do this work with Fort Freedom, which was created by individuals with self-less, heart-felt and soul-full intentions, of hard work, generosity and optimism.
“Through the transformative power of healing you are able
to live the quality of life you desire and deserve.”
Dr. Sylvia Keller