In July, Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) hosted its first-ever Volunteer Leader Workshop—an event bringing together some of TMF’s most committed volunteers for training, connection, and inspiration. Held at the University of Health & Performance (UHP) in Gentry, Arkansas, the workshop united Veteran Mentors from the hallmark Character Does Matter (CDM) youth mentorship program and leaders of TMF Chapters from across the country to deepen their impact and extend the reach of the "If Not Me, Then Who..." ethos in their communities.

This gathering offered an opportunity for Mentors and Chapter leaders—two essential parts of TMF’s Spartan volunteer community—to learn with and from one another and TMF staff. These volunteer leaders were hand-selected to attend the workshop because of their dedication to the mission and their efforts to carry it forward in schools, neighborhoods, and communities nationwide.

During the workshop, Spartans participated in sessions focused on leadership development, team-building, and mission-driven planning. They shared best practices, explored challenges, and gained new insights into how to better activate their communities through TMF programming. Importantly, the workshop created opportunities for relationship-building between CDM Mentors and Chapter Leaders, helping to foster a more unified volunteer network. At UHP’s state-of-the-art facilities, workshop participants enjoyed tailored workouts and nutritious cooking demonstrations to fuel both their bodies and minds.

The impact of the workshop is already being felt. "Being among like-minded people who live out the mission of 'If Not Me, Then Who...' created a deep sense of belonging and reignited my passion for the work we do,” says Tim Shampoe, TMF Veteran Mentor and a member of the TMF Columbia River Chapter in the Pacific Northwest. “It felt like coming home."

As TMF continues to grow, events like the Volunteer Leader Workshop underscore the organization’s commitment to empowering volunteers to carry on the legacies of our fallen heroes and develop character in future generations.