Ride for Vets Kickoff Event: A Powerful Start to the Journey

Apr 18, 2026

What an incredible way to begin this journey.

Our Ride for Vets kickoff event was everything we hoped for—and more. Surrounded by friends, family, supporters, and new faces, the room was filled with energy, generosity, and a shared commitment to honoring and supporting our nation’s veterans.

From the moment guests arrived, it was clear this was going to be something special.

A Program That Moved Hearts

One of the most impactful moments of the afternoon came from our special guest speaker representing the Wounded Warrior Project, Mary Tallouzi. Her words were powerful, heartfelt, and a reminder of exactly why this mission matters. She brought the reality of veterans’ experiences into the room in a way that truly resonated with everyone present.

Brett also took the stage to share the story behind Ride for Vets—the “why” behind the 6,000-mile journey. His message was personal, emotional, and deeply inspiring, connecting his family’s military roots with a larger purpose: to give back in a meaningful way to those who have sacrificed so much.

Together, these moments grounded the event in purpose and left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

A Celebration of Community

Beyond the speeches, the event was a true celebration.

We were thrilled to feature an amazing student dance performance that brought energy and excitement to the room, along with a special appearance from the Kansas City Chiefs Cheerleaders, who added a fun and memorable touch to the afternoon.

The support from the community was overwhelming. Seeing so many people come together—whether to donate, participate, or simply show encouragement—was a powerful reminder that this mission is bigger than any one person.

Raffles, Generosity, and Unforgettable Moments

Our raffles were a huge success, with enthusiastic participation throughout the event.

And in a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the day, the winner of the 50/50 raffle—taking home $500—made the incredible decision to donate the entire amount back to Ride for Vets. It was a spontaneous act of generosity that left the room in awe and perfectly reflected the heart of this mission.

This Is Just the Beginning

The kickoff event was not just a celebration—it was a launch.

With Brett now beginning his 6,000-mile ride across the country, this event marked the first step in a journey driven by purpose, resilience, and community support.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and helped make this event such a success. Your support is what makes this mission possible.

This is only the beginning—and we’re excited to share every mile, every story, and every impact along the way.


Follow the journey. Support the mission. Help us make a difference for our veterans.