True North Foundation: Supporting Veterans Through Community and Compassion
By Leslie Parsons
The True North Foundation is a beacon of support and hope for veterans across the United States. What began as a corporate initiative between Semper Capital Management and CAVU Securities has evolved into a full-fledged nonprofit organization, dedicated to making a tangible impact on the lives of veterans.
The Birth of a Mission
The story of the True North Foundation is deeply rooted in the personal journey of its founder, Greg Parsons, a Marine Corps veteran who faced significant challenges during his transition from military to civilian life. Parsons' journey from the Marines to the corporate world was fraught with difficulties. His struggles in navigating this transition inspired a profound resolve: to help other veterans facing similar challenges.
About eight years ago, Parsons initiated corporate programs at CAVU and Semper Capital Management, partnering with several nonprofit organizations to encourage volunteering and employee engagement in veteran causes. In 2020, he recognized the need for this initiative to stand on its own to ensure its growth and sustainability, independent of his direct involvement. This realization led to the establishment of the True North Foundation in April 2022.
Leading by Doing
Parsons' leadership philosophy is centered around action and involvement. He believes in the power of leading by doing, supporting organizations that encourage active participation with the veteran community as well as financial contribution. This ethos is at the heart of the True North Foundation, which aims to bring similar opportunities for engagement and support to the broader public.
The True North Foundation serves as a vital link between donors and the impact they are making in the veteran community. By supporting a range of veteran causes across the country, True North ensures that contributions directly benefit those in need. The foundation's efforts are structured around four key pillars of support:
Education: Providing scholarships and educational opportunities to veterans and their families.
Employment: Assisting veterans in finding meaningful employment and career development opportunities.
Adaptive Sports: Promoting physical fitness and rehabilitation through adaptive sports programs.
Physical and Mental Rehabilitation: Supporting initiatives that address the physical and mental health needs of veterans.
Supporting Nonprofit Partners
The True North Foundation collaborates with various nonprofit partners to amplify its impact. These partnerships include:
The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation: Providing scholarships to the children of Marine Corps servicemembers and veterans.
Stay in Step Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Recovery Center: Offering rehabilitation services for veterans and civilians with injuries and neurological disorders resulting in paralysis.
Dot Tag Inc.: Offering employment opportunities and in-depth career training and counselling to veterans, military spouses, and caregivers.
Merging Vets and Players (MVP): Bringing together veterans and professional athletes to support each other in their transition to civilian life.
True North supports these partners through a combination of volunteering, fundraising assistance, donations, event organization, newsletters, and sponsorships. One notable example is the sponsorship of adaptive athlete Luke Kittel, who embodies the spirit of resilience and determination that True North aims to foster.
Conclusion
As True North continues to grow and expand its reach, it remains steadfast in its mission to honor and support those who have served our country. To learn more about the organizations we support and our upcoming events, please consider subscribing to our newsletter.