The Mission to Honor Fallen Heroes: Supporting Military Families through Education with Ben Leslie

Ben Leslie, Chief Development Officer of Folds of Honor, joins the podcast to discuss the foundation's mission of providing educational scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service members and first responders. Ben shares how Folds of Honor started from humble beginnings in 2007 and has now awarded over $250 million in scholarships to over 51,000 recipients. He discusses what inspires him in his work, partnerships with major brands and corporations, upcoming fundraising events, and more about Folds of Honor's impactful mission.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 10:00] The Inspiring Origins of Folds of Honor

• Started in 2007 by Air Force pilot Dan Rooney and wife Jackie to help a family of fallen soldier
• Sparked the beginning of the mission to honor sacrifice by educating legacies
• Given nearly $251M in scholarships to over 51,000 recipients

[10:01 - 19:42] Providing Contagious Patriotism and Impact

• Growing up in the golf industry and learning the value of providing great experiences
• Inspired daily by founders, staff, donors, and corporate partners who want to give back
• Being extremely efficient with money raised and providing transparency on funds
• Partnerships with brands like Yeti, Titleist, Freddy's, Budweiser, and much more
• Budweiser has donated $22M over 13 years to fund scholarships

[19:43 - 23:25] Current Events and Campaigns

• Local chapters across 35 states fundraise with events and campaigns
• Events at the Orlando golf tournament and Dallas Cowboys Stadium
• Welcomes anyone to reach out to get involved
• Open to more volunteers, corporate support, and individual donors

[23:26 - 28:05] Closing Segment

Connect with Ben and volunteer at Folds of Honor!

Key Quotes:

"I've got this...best job in the world. I get to help people every day and I come to the office and I'm inspired by purpose." - Ben Leslie

"We're the best country in the world with the greatest people in it. And I believe that they all have unbelievable hearts and want to live by the golden rule." - Ben Leslie

Connect with Ben:

Phone Number: 918 704 4475

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-leslie-08a2426 

Website: https://www.foldsofhonor.org 

Honoring: COL Dan Rooney and wife Jackie

Thanks for tuning in! 

If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! 

Find me on the following streaming platforms:

Apple

Spotify

Google Podcasts

IHeart Radio

Stitcher