From the Desk of Angel Shuford: Honoring Growth, Innovation, and Partnership for National Invest In Veterans Week®

As we proudly move into 2025, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the journey and evolution of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW) and express our deep gratitude to our partner, National Day Calendar®. Since its inception in 2019, National Day Calendar® has been instrumental in amplifying the mission and message of NIVW, ensuring that March 1-7 is celebrated as a time to honor the resilience, innovation, and economic contributions of veteran entrepreneurs.

For more on how National Day Calendar® celebrates and supports this week, visit: National Invest In Veterans Week® – March 1-7.

Building a Legacy of Leadership and Empowerment

Founded by NFL veteran Drayton Florence and Iraq War veteran Jeff Shuford, National Invest In Veterans Week® was created to empower veterans as they transition into entrepreneurship and civilian life. With the generous support of partners like National Day Calendar®, we’ve built a movement that shines a spotlight on the 9.1% of U.S. businesses owned by veterans, which:

• Employ 5.03 million people,

• Contribute $195 billion in annual payroll, and

• Generate $1.14 trillion in annual receipts.

These numbers reflect the undeniable economic and social value veterans bring to communities nationwide.

Special Thanks to National Day Calendar®

In 2019, National Day Calendar® officially proclaimed National Invest In Veterans Week®, solidifying its place on the calendar each March 1-7. Their continued support has elevated our mission to new heights.

Through their platform, National Day Calendar® has helped us:

• Gain legislative recognition, including a resolution by the South Carolina Senate Family and Veterans Services Committee.

• Highlight veteran-owned businesses, encouraging communities to invest in their local veteran entrepreneurs.

• Inspire new initiatives like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠, which empower female veterans in leadership and entrepreneurship.

Their partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration in fostering a brighter future for veterans everywhere.

2025 Highlights and Updates

This year, National Invest In Veterans Week® has introduced several key initiatives and updates to better serve veterans and their families:

1. Dynamic Brand Evolution

• Modern Visual Branding: New graphics and marketing campaigns reflect the innovative spirit of veteran entrepreneurs.

• Expanded Global Reach: Platforms in 62 markets provide opportunities for veterans worldwide.

2. Groundbreaking Programs

• FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ Days: Celebrating the strength and leadership of female veterans.

• International Veterans Day: A global initiative to honor veterans’ contributions across industries and nations.

3. Vets 2.0℠: Leading the Way

Under the co-leadership of Kevin D. Shoun, Vets 2.0℠ provides tailored support for recently discharged veterans. This includes:

• Career Transition Workshops,

• Mental Health Resources, and

• Tech-Driven Solutions like centralized mobile apps for housing, financial planning, and employment.

How You Can Participate in National Invest In Veterans Week®

We invite everyone to join us in celebrating and supporting veterans this March 1-7. Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Promote Veteran-Owned Businesses: Use social media to highlight and support veteran entrepreneurs in your community.

2. Host Workshops and Events: Create networking opportunities for aspiring and established veteran business owners.

3. Mentor a Veteran Entrepreneur: Share your knowledge and expertise to help veterans achieve their goals.

4. Petition Legislators: Advocate for local and state recognition of National Invest In Veterans Week®.

For additional ways to observe and support, visit the official page on National Day Calendar®.

Looking Ahead

National Invest In Veterans Week® continues to grow as a beacon of hope and opportunity for veterans. With the steadfast partnership of National Day Calendar®, we are reaching more communities, breaking barriers, and driving innovation.

As we honor the service and sacrifice of veterans, let us also celebrate their entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and contributions to our society. Together, we can ensure that veterans have the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey.

Angel Shuford
Vice President, National Invest In Veterans Week®

Endorsement: Aaron Jones for the Walter Payton NFL "Man of the Year" Award

Drayton Florence is a former NFL player and co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week® an organization that advocates for veteran business development. He is also a champion for veteran-focused initiatives and has received numerous awards for his advocacy work.

As a co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week® it is my honor to endorse Aaron Jones for the Walter Payton NFL "Man of the Year" award. Jones' commitment to his community and his work with military veterans exemplify the values that the award represents.

The connection between the military and the National Football League is a strong one. Many NFL players have served in the military or have family members who have served. The discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills learned in the military translate well to the football field, and the NFL recognizes the sacrifices and contributions of military veterans.

Jones' work with his charitable organization, A&A All The Way Foundation, focuses on impacting the lives of children and military families. This work is especially meaningful to me as a veteran myself, and I have seen firsthand the impact that organizations like A&A All The Way Foundation can have on the lives of those who have served our country.

Through his foundation, Jones and his brother have hosted events like charity softball games and turkey giveaways, raising funds for programs that focus on youth recreation and fitness, children's basic needs, and military families. This kind of community engagement is essential to creating positive change and supporting those who need it most.

Jones' commitment to veterans extends beyond his foundation work as well. He has participated in the NFL's Salute to Service initiative, which honors military veterans and their families. He has also visited troops overseas and spoken about the importance of supporting veterans in his interviews with the media.

As someone who has dedicated his post-football career to supporting veteran business development and advocating for veteran-focused initiatives, I know firsthand the importance of having allies in the NFL community who are committed to this work. Jones' dedication to veterans and military families makes him a valuable asset to the NFL and the wider community.

It is my hope that the NFL will recognize Jones' contributions by awarding him the Walter Payton NFL "Man of the Year" award. This award is not just a recognition of Jones' achievements on the field but also a celebration of his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

I believe that Jones' work with A&A All The Way Foundation and his dedication to veterans make him a deserving candidate for the award. His example can inspire others to get involved in their communities and support those who have sacrificed so much for our country.

Thank you for considering my endorsement of Aaron Jones for the Walter Payton NFL "Man of the Year" award.

Sincerely,

Drayton Florence Co-Founder, National Invest In Veterans Week®