Drayton Florence Drayton Florence

A Family Legacy of Leadership: Jeff Shuford and Jim Freeman Honored by Rolling Stone

In the intertwined worlds of music, technology, and advocacy, the Shuford-Freeman family stands as a beacon of leadership and cultural influence. From Jim Freeman, a founding member of the legendary doo-wop group The Five Satins, to Jeff Shuford, a visionary veteran entrepreneur and nationally recognized advocate, their legacy is one of innovation, perseverance, and impact. What makes their story even more extraordinary is that both Freeman and Shuford have been honored by Rolling Stone, albeit for distinct contributions to their respective fields.

In the intertwined worlds of music, technology, and advocacy, the Shuford-Freeman family stands as a beacon of leadership and cultural influence. From Jim Freeman, a founding member of the legendary doo-wop group The Five Satins, to Jeff Shuford, a visionary veteran entrepreneur and nationally recognized advocate, their legacy is one of innovation, perseverance, and impact. What makes their story even more extraordinary is that both Freeman and Shuford have been honored by Rolling Stone, albeit for distinct contributions to their respective fields.

Freeman's timeless hit, "In the Still of the Night," remains one of the most iconic songs of the 20th century, cementing his place in music history. Meanwhile, Shuford's thought leadership in social impact branding, featured in Rolling Stone in 2021, reflects his transformative work in veteran advocacy and entrepreneurship. Together, their stories paint a vivid portrait of a family committed to excellence and service.

Jim Freeman: The Five Satins and the Birth of an Anthem

Jim Freeman’s journey began in the vibrant music scene of the 1950s. As a founding member of The Five Satins, Freeman co-created a sound that defined a generation. The group’s 1956 hit, "In the Still of the Night," remains a cultural touchstone, its influence spanning decades and genres.

A Song That Endures

Recorded in a New Haven church basement, "In the Still of the Night" achieved unparalleled success, selling over 34 million copies and earning a spot on Rolling Stone’s list of "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time" at #90. The song’s haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics captured the spirit of an era, making it a favorite for proms, weddings, and soundtracks. Its inclusion in films like Dirty Dancing and American Graffiti and its continued airplay on oldies stations have solidified its status as a timeless classic.

Freeman’s contributions to music were further recognized with inductions into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the GRAMMY Hall of Fame, honors that celebrate the enduring impact of The Five Satins.

Congressional Recognition

In 2015, Freeman’s legacy was immortalized in the Congressional Record, a rare and prestigious honor that acknowledged his role in shaping American music. Reflecting on this milestone, Freeman remarked, "Music is more than notes and lyrics; it’s the voice of our shared experiences. It connects us across generations and reminds us that we are never alone."

Jeff Shuford: A Modern-Day Visionary

While Jim Freeman’s legacy was rooted in music, Jeff Shuford has built his own legacy at the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and social impact. An Iraq War veteran, nationally syndicated columnist, and co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), Shuford’s work has empowered countless veterans and inspired communities nationwide.

A Rolling Stone Author

Shuford’s feature in Rolling Stone, titled "Tips on Developing a Dynamic Social Impact Strategy for Brand Growth," showcased his expertise in leveraging social impact to drive meaningful change. In the article, Shuford outlined strategies for integrating purpose-driven initiatives into branding, drawing from his own experiences with NIVW.

"Social impact is not just about helping people—it’s about creating systems of support that empower communities to thrive," Shuford wrote. His insights resonated with readers and solidified his status as a thought leader in the field.

The Creation of National Invest In Veterans Week®

Founded in 2017, NIVW is a congressionally recognized initiative that highlights the contributions of veteran entrepreneurs and provides them with the resources they need to succeed. Under Shuford’s leadership, NIVW has become a national movement, celebrated annually during the first week of March.

Bridging Gaps for Veterans

NIVW addresses critical challenges faced by veteran entrepreneurs, including limited access to capital, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Through events, partnerships, and promotions, the initiative fosters a supportive ecosystem that helps veterans transition their military skills into business success.

Shuford’s branding expertise has amplified NIVW’s reach, earning endorsements from state governments and bipartisan support in Congress. In 2024, NIVW was officially entered into the Congressional Record, cementing its impact on the veteran community.

"Veterans possess unmatched discipline and resilience," Shuford often says. "Our goal with NIVW is to ensure they have the tools to channel these qualities into successful businesses."

Tech From Vets: Innovation Meets Advocacy

Before founding NIVW, Shuford launched Tech From Vets, a technology firm dedicated to supporting veteran-owned businesses. By offering services like app development and AI-driven analytics, the company empowers veterans to compete in the digital economy.

The Vets 22 App

One of Tech From Vets’ most impactful projects is the Vets 22 App, designed to connect veterans with life-saving resources. The app addresses issues like PTSD and homelessness, providing a lifeline for veterans in need.

"Every day, 22 veterans lose their lives to suicide," Shuford explains. "We created Vets 22 to ensure they know they are not alone—that help is just a click away."

Shared Recognition in Rolling Stone

The Shuford-Freeman family’s dual acknowledgment in Rolling Stone is a testament to their enduring influence. For Freeman, the honor celebrates his contribution to American music; for Shuford, it highlights his transformative work in advocacy and branding.

This shared recognition reflects the family’s commitment to excellence and their ability to inspire across generations.

Awards and Honors: A Testament to Leadership

The achievements of Jeff Shuford and Jim Freeman have been recognized through numerous awards:

Jim Freeman

  • Inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the GRAMMY Hall of Fame

  • Honored in the Congressional Record (2015)

Jeff Shuford

  • Featured in Rolling Stone (2021) for social impact branding

  • Congressional Recognition (2024) for National Invest In Veterans Week®

  • Named to Black Enterprise’s BE Modern Man List (2019)

  • Recipient of the Gold Star Recognition Award and the Community of Heroes Award

A Legacy of Leadership and Impact

The bond between Jeff Shuford and Jim Freeman is more than familial—it is a shared commitment to excellence and service. Freeman’s pioneering work in music paved the way for Shuford’s groundbreaking initiatives in technology and advocacy.

Reflecting on his grandfather’s influence, Shuford often says, "My grandfather showed me the importance of staying committed to your vision, even when the odds seem stacked against you."

Freeman’s advice to future generations, "Never let anyone tell you that your dreams are too big," resonates deeply with Shuford’s work, which empowers veterans to dream big and achieve their goals.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Legacy

As Shuford transitions into retirement, his contributions continue to inspire. NIVW remains a vital platform for veteran advocacy, while his work with Tech From Vets has set a new standard for socially conscious entrepreneurship.

The Shuford-Freeman legacy is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and impact—a story that will inspire generations to come.

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National Invest In Veterans Week Staff National Invest In Veterans Week Staff

FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠: Redefining Female Veteran Leadership During National Invest In Veterans Week®

FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠: Empowering Female Veteran Entrepreneurs During National Invest In Veterans Week®

Female veteran entrepreneurs are transforming the global economy through resilience, innovation, and leadership. Programs like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠, introduced by Angel Shuford during National Invest In Veterans Week® (March 1–7), are breaking systemic barriers for women veterans in business.

FeMil℠ equips early-stage female entrepreneurs with tools to secure funding, build networks, and establish sustainable businesses. FeMil Lead℠ takes this a step further, offering advanced mentorship, leadership training, and growth strategies to help female veterans scale their businesses and dominate their industries.

During National Invest In Veterans Week®, these initiatives shine, advocating for legislative change like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act and hosting events that connect veterans with resources and investors. FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ are not just programs—they’re movements redefining female veteran leadership.

Mark Your Calendar: Celebrate on March 6 the birthday of Angel Shuford by joining FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ in honoring and empowering veteran entrepreneurs.

National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), held annually from March 1–7, celebrates veteran entrepreneurs' resilience, innovation, and contributions to the global economy. Among its groundbreaking initiatives, FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠, championed by Angel Shuford, have emerged as transformative programs empowering female veteran entrepreneurs to overcome barriers and thrive in leadership roles.

Female veterans embody the resilience, leadership, and adaptability gained through military service, but they face systemic challenges when transitioning to civilian careers. FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ bridge these gaps, offering resources, mentorship, and pathways to leadership. This is a movement, not just a program—it’s about forging a new era of female veteran leadership.

The Mission Behind FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠

  • FeMil℠: Focused on early-stage entrepreneurship, FeMil℠ empowers female veterans by providing resources like funding education, networking opportunities, and strategies to secure startup capital. It transforms resilience into business success.

  • FeMil Lead℠: Designed for advanced entrepreneurs, FeMil Lead℠ emphasizes leadership development and scalability. The program offers one-on-one mentorship, advanced leadership training, and growth-focused strategies, equipping female veterans to compete globally.

These initiatives align with the National Invest In Veterans Week® mission, ensuring that female veterans are not just included but lead the charge in reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape.

Overcoming Systemic Barriers

Despite their strengths, female veterans face substantial challenges, including:

  1. Access to Capital: Nearly half of female veteran entrepreneurs report being denied loans, highlighting the need for targeted funding solutions. FeMil℠ educates women on navigating financial systems and connects them with funding opportunities.

  2. Scaling Businesses: FeMil Lead℠ provides tools to ensure that female veterans not only start businesses but also sustain and scale them.

  3. Lack of Mentorship: Many female veterans struggle to find mentors who understand their unique experiences. FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ fill this void by fostering mentorship networks tailored to female veterans' needs.

Why FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ Matter During NIVW

National Invest In Veterans Week® is more than a celebration—it’s a platform for change. Programs like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ amplify the voices of female veteran entrepreneurs, ensuring their contributions are recognized and supported. During NIVW, FeMil℠ hosts events like Veteran Tech Tuesday and Forward March Saturday, creating opportunities for networking, mentorship, and advocacy.

FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ also highlight the importance of legislative support, advocating for policies like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act, which provides tax incentives, mentorship funding, and federal contracting opportunities for veteran-owned businesses.

Legislative Action: The Missing Piece

While FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ are making strides, systemic change requires legislative action. Proposed policies like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act would:

  • Provide Tax Incentives: Support veteran-owned startups with tax credits and low-interest loans.

  • Expand Mentorship Programs: Allocate federal funding to expand initiatives like FeMil Lead℠.

  • Simplify Federal Contracting: Reserve contracts specifically for veteran-owned businesses and streamline the application process.

These measures are vital for creating an equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem where female veterans can thrive.

Join the Movement: National Invest In Veterans Week®

As we approach the 2025 celebration of National Invest In Veterans Week®, it’s time to honor the resilience and leadership of female veteran entrepreneurs. Programs like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ are paving the way for a future where female veterans are not just participants but leaders in the global economy.

Learn More:

Mark Your Calendar: From March 1–7, join the global movement to empower veteran entrepreneurs. Together, we can honor their service, support their leadership, and drive meaningful change.

The Future of Leadership: FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ Take Center Stage

Empowering Female Veteran Entrepreneurs with FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠: A Spotlight During National Invest In Veterans Week®

National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) celebrates the resilience, innovation, and leadership of veteran entrepreneurs each March 1–7. Among its flagship initiatives, FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ shine as transformative programs empowering female veterans to break barriers and achieve success in entrepreneurship and leadership.

Female veterans embody qualities like resilience, leadership, and adaptability—traits honed through military service. Yet, these women face systemic challenges, from access to funding to the lack of mentorship. FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ are designed to address these issues, transforming these women into business leaders shaping the global economy.

FeMil℠ focuses on early-stage entrepreneurs, offering resources to secure funding, network effectively, and navigate the complexities of business ownership. FeMil Lead℠, on the other hand, equips female veterans with leadership skills, advanced training, and mentorship to scale their businesses and lead their industries.

During National Invest In Veterans Week®, these programs take center stage, offering events, advocacy, and networking opportunities to connect female veterans with the tools and resources they need to succeed. FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ also advocate for legislative change, pushing for policies that create equitable opportunities for female veterans.

Together, FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ represent a bold step forward in empowering female veteran entrepreneurs. They exemplify the mission of National Invest In Veterans Week®: to honor service, empower leadership, and drive economic growth.

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Lonnell McCall II Lonnell McCall II

Flashback: Veteran Center Meet & Greet at Fitchburg State

On March 6, 2024, Fitchburg State University’s Veteran Center welcomed veteran students for a heartfelt Meet & Greet event. This special gathering, hosted during National Invest in Veterans Week, showcased the university’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for those who have served.

On March 6, 2024, Fitchburg State University’s Veteran Center welcomed veteran students for a heartfelt Meet & Greet event. This special gathering, hosted during National Invest in Veterans Week, showcased the university’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for those who have served.

A Community Built on Connection
The event created a space where veteran students could connect over coffee, light refreshments, and meaningful conversations. With a warm and relaxed atmosphere, the gathering encouraged attendees to share their unique stories, strengthen their bonds, and feel part of a larger community. Staff and faculty were also present to extend their gratitude and support, making it a truly collaborative celebration of service.

National Invest in Veterans Week: A Mission to Support
National Invest in Veterans Week emphasizes the importance of assisting veterans in their transition to civilian life, ensuring they feel valued and supported. Fitchburg State’s Veteran Center Meet & Greet served as a perfect example of how academic institutions can play a vital role in this mission, going beyond academics to champion veteran success and well-being.

Memorable Highlights
The event was filled with moments that resonated deeply with attendees:

  • Heartfelt stories shared over coffee, leading to lasting connections.

  • A welcoming space that fostered camaraderie and open dialogue.

  • Faculty and staff actively engaging with veteran students, reinforcing their commitment to a culture of respect and appreciation.

Looking Ahead
Fitchburg State University remains steadfast in its dedication to honoring and uplifting its veteran community. This event was just one of many initiatives aimed at ensuring veterans thrive both on and off campus.

For a closer look at the event and more from the Veteran Center, visit: Veteran Center Meet & Greet.

National Invest In Veterans Week & Fitchburg State salutes all veterans! Stay tuned for future events celebrating those who served.

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National Invest In Veterans Week Staff National Invest In Veterans Week Staff

Driving Innovation and Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurship Across 62 Global Markets

National Invest In Veterans Week® has demonstrated significant growth in both community engagement and digital visibility. Recent analysis highlights key search volume peaks in April and June, alongside an average CPC of $29.77, reflecting its increasing relevance and commercial potential. As a self-funded initiative, these findings showcase opportunities to further expand its organic reach and explore strategies for future scalability. More than just a search trend, the movement embodies a growing commitment to veteran empowerment and its transformative impact.

Angel Shuford

By Angel Shuford, Vice President, National Invest In Veterans Week®

As we continue to build on the visionary foundation of Jeff Shuford, National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) is proud to unveil a transformative expansion into 62 global markets, setting a new benchmark for veteran advocacy and entrepreneurial support. This unprecedented initiative connects veterans worldwide through a sophisticated network of hyper-localized domains and innovative digital platforms designed to empower, uplift, and transform the lives of veteran entrepreneurs.

A Global Ecosystem for Veterans: Amplifying Impact and Connectivity

Our expansion transcends boundaries, linking veterans to unparalleled opportunities for mentorship, funding, and partnership. By uniting 14 U.S. state-specific markets and 29 international country-specific markets, we are creating a robust and inclusive ecosystem that redefines the potential of veteran entrepreneurship.

U.S. State-Specific Markets

International Country-Specific Markets

International Regional and Organizational Platforms

Technology-Driven Innovation: The π Domains

The launch of our π (Pledge to Invest) = Veteran Businesses℠ domains underscores our commitment to harnessing the power of technology to elevate veteran entrepreneurs. These platforms are pioneering a digital transformation in veteran advocacy:

  • π.digital: A comprehensive digital resource hub.

  • π.guru: A mentorship network providing expert guidance.

  • π.solutions: Custom solutions for entrepreneurial growth.

  • π.agency: Facilitating strategic partnerships.

  • π.directory: A global listing of veteran-owned businesses.

The Economic and Social Value of Veteran-Owned Businesses

Veteran-owned businesses in the U.S. generate over $1.2 trillion annually, contributing immeasurably to the economy and their communities. By scaling this impact globally, NIVW is fostering a movement that:

  • Empowers Veterans: Unlocking entrepreneurial potential through localized and international resources.

  • Drives Economic Growth: Creating opportunities for veterans to thrive in diverse industries.

  • Builds Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships across borders to promote shared success.

For a deeper dive into the strategic impact of this expansion, read our Comprehensive Report on CPC and Search Trends.

Building the Future: A Call to Action

This expansion signals a turning point for National Invest In Veterans Week®. With Jeff Shuford’s visionary framework as our foundation, we are forging a path of innovation, connectivity, and empowerment.

To our supporters: your continued contributions and advocacy are essential. Together, we are reshaping the future of veteran entrepreneurship, one market at a time.

Unlocking Digital Insights for National Invest In Veterans Week®

As National Invest In Veterans Week® continues to grow into a global movement, we’ve taken a deep dive into the search behavior and CPC trends surrounding this powerful initiative. With search volumes peaking in April and June, and an average CPC of $29.77 highlighting its strong commercial potential, the data underscores the immense value and visibility this keyword carries. While remaining proudly self-funded, these insights offer a roadmap for amplifying our organic reach and exploring strategic opportunities to scale our impact. This is more than a keyword—it’s a reflection of the growing demand for veteran empowerment and the transformative work we’re doing together.

Stay tuned for more updates and let’s keep building momentum for veterans everywhere.

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Angel Shuford National Invest In Veterans Week Staff Angel Shuford National Invest In Veterans Week Staff

National Invest In Veterans Week®: Empowering 62 Markets Globally

The expansion of National Invest In Veterans Week® represents a transformative leap in global reach and inclusivity, solidifying its presence across 62 diverse markets. This growth encompasses 14 U.S. state-specific domains, ensuring localized support for American veterans, alongside 29 international country-specific domains, reflecting a commitment to connecting with veterans in key nations worldwide. Additionally, the inclusion of 9 region and organization-specific domains, such as Allied Forces and Commonwealth Nations, underscores a focus on collaborative, multinational veteran communities. The innovative integration of 5 π domains highlights a forward-thinking approach to digital branding, further aligning the initiative with modern technology and global accessibility. This expansion positions National Invest In Veterans Week® as a trailblazer in veteran advocacy, bridging geographic, cultural, and technological boundaries to empower veterans everywhere.

By Angel Shuford, Vice President, National Invest In Veterans Week®

We are thrilled to announce the expansion of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) into 62 global markets, further advancing our mission of supporting veteran entrepreneurs. This expansion introduces innovative domains and platforms, leveraging technology and global connectivity to ensure veterans have the tools they need to succeed. With the launch of π (Pledge to Invest) = Veteran Businesses℠, we’re setting a new standard for veteran advocacy worldwide.

This initiative builds upon the visionary framework established by Jeff Shuford, enhancing our ability to connect veterans with opportunities across the U.S. and international markets.

Total Markets: 62

U.S. State-Specific Markets (14)

  1. LouisianaVeterans.com

  2. KansasVeterans.com

  3. RhodeIslandVeterans.com

  4. NewHampshireVeterans.com

  5. DelawareVeterans.com

  6. PennsylvaniaVeterans.com

  7. SouthCarolinaVeterans.com

  8. MississippiVeterans.com

  9. WyomingVeterans.com

  10. WestVirginiaVeterans.com

  11. TennesseeVeterans.com

  12. NewJerseyVeterans.com

  13. NorthDakotaVeterans.com

  14. FloridaVeterans.com

These markets represent key hubs where veterans can access tailored resources, partnerships, and mentorship opportunities.

International Country-Specific Markets (29)

  1. AustraliaVeterans.com

  2. SouthKoreaVeterans.com

  3. GermanyVeterans.com

  4. JapanVeterans.com

  5. UnitedKingdomVeterans.com

  6. ItalyVeterans.com

  7. TurkeyVeterans.com

  8. FranceVeterans.com

  9. NorwayVeterans.com

  10. SpainVeterans.com

  11. PolandVeterans.com

  12. BrazilVeterans.com

  13. NetherlandsVeterans.com

  14. BelgiumVeterans.com

  15. PortugalVeterans.com

  16. IcelandVeterans.com

  17. IsraelVeterans.com

  18. ArgentinaVeterans.com

  19. EgyptVeterans.com

  20. MoroccoVeterans.com

  21. PhilippinesVeterans.com

  22. KuwaitVeterans.com

  23. NewZealandVeterans.com

  24. QatarVeterans.com

  25. SaudiArabiaVeterans.com

  26. SingaporeVeterans.com

  27. ThailandVeterans.com

  28. MexicoVeterans.com

  29. UnitedArabEmiratesVeterans.com

These domains connect veterans with opportunities in international economies, providing access to partnerships, funding, and collaborative initiatives.

International Region and Organization-Specific Markets (9)

  1. AlliedForcesVeterans.com

  2. CentralAmericaVeterans.com

  3. SouthAmericaVeterans.com

  4. GreenlandVeterans.com

  5. PacificIslandVeterans.com

  6. ScandinaviaVeterans.com

  7. PanamaVeterans.com

  8. CommonwealthVeterans.com

  9. EUVeterans.com

These platforms unify veterans across regions and nations, fostering collaboration and shared growth.

π Domains (5)

  1. π.digital: A space for digital resources, connections, and support.

  2. π.guru: A mentorship hub offering expert advice and guidance.

  3. π.solutions: A platform for providing tailored solutions for veteran entrepreneurs.

  4. π.agency: Facilitating partnerships and corporate collaborations.

  5. π.directory: A comprehensive listing of veteran-owned businesses globally.

Why This Expansion Matters

Global Impact

This expansion highlights the economic and social value of veteran-owned businesses worldwide. By connecting these 62 markets, we’re creating an ecosystem that empowers veterans to thrive in diverse industries.

Fact: Veteran-owned businesses in the U.S. generate over $1.2 trillion annually, and this expansion amplifies their potential to contribute globally.

Technology-Driven Innovation

The π domains symbolize the limitless potential of veteran entrepreneurship, leveraging digital platforms to connect veterans to resources, funding, and mentorship.

What’s Next?

This expansion marks a turning point for National Invest In Veterans Week®. With π = Veteran Businesses℠, we’re driving innovation, collaboration, and growth across 62 markets. Together, we are creating a movement that redefines veteran entrepreneurship.

Call to Action: Your support and contributions are key to the success of this initiative. Let’s build on Jeff Shuford’s vision and take this mission to new heights.

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