Racing Toward a Purpose With Fred Roger and Stephen Kantarze of The Veterans Trust

Stephen Kantarze, is the Program Director of The Veterans Trust. He joined the US Army in 2008 as an infantryman, serving his countries in numerous capacities including a tour in Iraq. He was deeply impacted by his role as a casket team leader at Arlington National Cemetery, where conducted over a thousand funerals and ceremonies. As part of The Veterans Trust, Stephen continues to honor his military roots by serving other service members.

Fred Roger is the Executive Director of The Veterans Trust. He began his service journey in high school, spurred by the events of 9/11 and a deep sense of duty to protect his country. Joining the ranks of the US Marine Corps at just 18, he embarked on multiple tours, including in Fallujah, Iraq, where he confronted the challenges of combat head-on. Transitioning into civilian life, he immersed himself in various endeavors, eventually finding his calling in nonprofit work. Through his foundation, Fred merges his love for motorsports with his desire to give back, creating unforgettable experiences for military veterans and first responders.

In this episode…

Many service members struggle with a lack of purpose after their service. The importance of providing veterans with opportunities for engagement and purpose after leaving the military cannot be overstated.

According to Fred Roger and Stephen Kantarze of The Veterans Trust, motorsports can play a large role in supporting veterans' adjustment to civilian life. Stephen stresses the significance of finding passion and expressing oneself as a means to combat depression and find fulfillment, while Fred notes the camaraderie and community support veterans experience in response to their motorsports involvement.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Fred and Stephen for a conversation about supporting veterans' transition to civilian life through motorsports. Stephen emphasizes the psychological benefits, highlighting motorsports’ role in providing purpose and self-expression for veterans. They share humorous anecdotes and discuss the program's growth, including partnerships and national expansion.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

• Stephen Kantarze highlights the diverse engagement opportunities at motorsport events
• Why veterans may struggle to find purpose after military service
• How motorsport can offer a seamless transition for veterans seeking purpose
• The importance of offering veterans opportunities for self-expression
• The Veterans Trust's reliance on donations and sponsorships for program support
• The significance of in-kind donations, volunteerism, and monetary contributions to sustain the initiative
• Fred Roger says despite mishaps, camaraderie and support among veterans remains strong

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Fred Roger on LinkedIn
• Stephen Kantarze on LinkedIn
• The Veterans Trust
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

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