Kevin D. Shoun and the Vision of Vets 2.0℠: Empowering the Next Generation of Veterans

Transitioning to civilian life poses unique challenges for recently discharged veterans, but Kevin D. Shoun, a retired U.S. Army First Sergeant, is leading the charge to address these needs through Vets 2.0℠. A groundbreaking initiative co-created with visionary Angel Shuford, Vets 2.0℠ is designed to support veterans in navigating their new chapters with resilience, community, and opportunity.

Kevin D. Shoun: Transformational Leadership for Veterans

Kevin D. Shoun is not just a leader but a catalyst for change. With decades of military service and a proven track record in mental health advocacy, community development, and veteran support, he has made it his mission to empower those who have served.

Shoun’s Impactful Contributions:

1. Mental Health Advocacy: Kevin’s tireless work ensures that Vets 2.0℠ addresses the emotional well-being of veterans through accessible counseling and wellness programs.

2. Community Building: By fostering local partnerships and mentorship opportunities, Kevin connects veterans to resources that enable long-term success.

3. Leadership Development: Kevin’s experience as a U.S. Army First Sergeant drives Vets 2.0℠’s focus on transforming veterans into leaders in their communities and industries.

Discover Kevin’s leadership approach:

• Kevin D. Shoun: Transformational Leadership in the Spirit of Jimmy Carter.

Vets 2.0℠: The Future of Veteran Empowerment

Under the co-leadership of Angel Shuford and Kevin Shoun, Vets 2.0℠ is redefining veteran support by providing innovative, tech-driven solutions tailored for today’s veterans.

What Sets Vets 2.0℠ Apart?

• Tailored Career Transition Support: Programs that help veterans translate their military skills into marketable civilian opportunities.

• Community Engagement: Networking events, mentorship programs, and online forums that foster a sense of belonging.

• Resource Accessibility: A centralized mobile app offers veterans instant access to housing, employment, and financial resources.

Core Components of Vets 2.0℠

1. Career Empowerment

• Skill Translation Workshops: Simplify the transition from military roles to civilian careers.

• Entrepreneurship Opportunities: Programs like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ support veterans, especially women, in starting their own businesses.

• Employment Partnerships: Collaborations with leading companies to connect veterans with roles in industries like technology, logistics, and renewable energy.

2. Mental Health and Wellness

• Comprehensive Support Services: Counseling, peer support groups, and crisis intervention programs tailored for veterans.

• Advocacy for Mental Health Resources: Kevin D. Shoun’s leadership ensures that emotional well-being is a priority at Vets 2.0℠.

3. Leveraging Technology for Change

• Innovative Digital Platforms: Tools like π.directory provide global networking opportunities.

• User-Friendly Mobile App: Centralized access to resources, event notifications, and financial planning tools.

Kevin D. Shoun: Stories of Leadership in Action

Building Bridges Between Veterans and Communities

Kevin’s local food drive initiatives exemplify his commitment to grassroots action, fostering partnerships that directly benefit veterans and their families.

Championing Mental Health

Through his advocacy work, Kevin has established programs that connect veterans to essential mental health resources, ensuring no veteran faces challenges alone.

A Legacy of Leadership

From his military career to his work with Vets 2.0℠, Kevin has consistently demonstrated the values of resilience, empathy, and innovation.

Why Vets 2.0℠ is Essential for Recently Discharged Veterans

Addressing Critical Needs

• Employment: With tailored workshops and job placement services, Vets 2.0℠ ensures veterans can find fulfilling careers.

• Community: By building networks of support, the initiative combats the isolation many veterans experience.

• Mental Health: Accessible counseling and peer support make emotional well-being a cornerstone of the program.

Empowering the Next Generation

Vets 2.0℠ is not just a support system—it’s a movement designed to empower veterans to lead, innovate, and thrive.

Join the Vets 2.0℠ Movement

With Kevin D. Shoun and Angel Shuford at the helm, Vets 2.0℠ is setting a new standard for veteran advocacy. By combining leadership, innovation, and community, the initiative ensures every veteran has the tools to succeed in civilian life.

Get Involved:

• Explore programs like FeMil℠: National Invest in Veterans Week®: Driving Innovation and Empowering Veterans Globally.

• Support mental health advocacy: Kevin D. Shoun’s Leadership in Action.

• Advocate for legislative change: Championing the Complete the Mission Act of 2024.

Together, we can redefine what it means to serve those who served us. Let’s build a future where every veteran has the opportunity to lead with resilience and purpose through Vets 2.0℠.

A Flashback to Statewide Efforts: Pioneering Veteran Support Through National Invest in Veterans Week®

As National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW) approaches, states across the nation reflect on their efforts to honor and support those who served in uniform. While the National Governors Association highlights impressive state-level initiatives, National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW) takes a transformative approach, creating an ecosystem of opportunity, advocacy, and innovation that amplifies state programs and fills critical gaps.

NIVW stands as a dynamic, nationwide movement that bridges local and global efforts, empowering veterans to achieve sustainable success in entrepreneurship, housing, mental health, and beyond.

Honoring Local Heroes: State Initiatives That Set the Stage

Montana’s Veteran Commendations and Invest in Veterans Week

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte demonstrated leadership in honoring veterans through commendations and a roundtable discussion during Invest in Veterans Week. These efforts focused on collaboration between state agencies, advocates, and veteran organizations to address critical challenges such as housing, healthcare, and employment.

NIVW expands on such efforts by introducing global programs that connect veterans to capital, mentorship, and international business opportunities.

Read more: Championing the Complete the Mission Act of 2024.

Economic Empowerment: Advancing State-Level and Global Support

Maryland’s Financial Assistance for Veteran-Owned Businesses

Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s $2.2 million funding initiative for small, minority, and veteran-owned businesses is a clear example of state-level economic empowerment. By providing loans, equity investments, and job creation grants, Maryland fosters local growth and community impact.

NIVW complements these efforts by scaling resources through platforms like GermanyVeterans.com and FloridaVeterans.com, ensuring global access to mentorship, funding, and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Virginia’s V3 Program

Virginia’s Values Veterans (V3) Certified Employers program celebrates businesses committed to hiring veterans and military spouses. NIVW reinforces this mission by connecting veterans with global employers through tools like π.directory, a comprehensive listing of veteran-owned and veteran-friendly businesses.

Explore more: FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ Empower Female Veterans.

Housing and Community: Building Resilience Beyond State Borders

New York’s Homes for Heroes Initiative

New York’s Homes for Heroes Veterans Apartments is an outstanding example of addressing housing insecurity among veterans. This state-led initiative provides permanent, supportive housing tailored to the needs of formerly homeless veterans.

NIVW amplifies such programs through its global Veterans’ Housing Initiative, offering financing options and partnerships to scale affordable housing projects for veterans worldwide.

Missouri’s Suicide Prevention Programs

Missouri’s focus on veteran suicide prevention aligns with NIVW’s broader mission to tackle mental health challenges. Through mentorship programs like FeMil Lead℠, NIVW empowers veterans to lead in their communities, fostering resilience and a sense of belonging that directly combats isolation and mental health issues.

The Global Impact of NIVW’s Vision

While states like California and South Carolina focus on localized support, NIVW creates a framework that transcends borders. Operating in 62 global markets, NIVW’s initiatives connect veterans to opportunities that would otherwise remain inaccessible, bridging local efforts with international impact.

Key Platforms Driving Global Change:

• π.guru: A mentorship network connecting veterans with industry experts.

• π.solutions: Providing tailored strategies to overcome business challenges.

• π.digital: A hub for educational resources and business toolkits.

These innovative tools position NIVW as a catalyst for systemic change, complementing state-level efforts with a unified, global strategy.

Learn more: Driving Innovation and Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurship Across 62 Global Markets.

A Call to Action: Uniting Local and Global Efforts for Veterans

National Invest in Veterans Week® bridges the gap between state-level achievements and global opportunities, creating a comprehensive framework to support veterans at every stage of their journey. By combining localized resources with international reach, NIVW ensures no veteran is left behind.

How You Can Support the Mission:

• Advocate for legislative reforms like the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act to expand access to funding and federal contracting.

• Explore state-specific platforms like FloridaVeterans.com to connect with tailored opportunities.

• Join the conversation and access resources at National Invest in Veterans Week®.

Together, we can honor the sacrifices of our veterans by providing them with the tools, networks, and opportunities they need to thrive. National Invest in Veterans Week® is more than a movement—it’s a promise to invest in those who’ve invested in us.

A Bold New Vision for Supporting Veteran Entrepreneurs: National Invest in Veterans Week® vs. NVSBW

While National Veterans Small Business Week (NVSBW) has established itself as a platform to celebrate veteran entrepreneurs, National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW) offers a comprehensive, year-round approach that addresses systemic barriers, drives innovation, and expands the scope of veteran entrepreneurship globally. With NVSBW’s 2024 theme, "Strengthening #VetBiz Communities," focusing on the role of veteran-owned businesses in local economies, NIVW takes this concept further by fostering a global ecosystem of veteran entrepreneurs through strategic initiatives, legislative advocacy, and cutting-edge technology.

National Invest in Veterans Week®: Redefining Veteran Advocacy

1. Moving Beyond Recognition to Transformation

While NVSBW’s primary goal is to recognize and support veteran-owned businesses for one week in November, NIVW provides continuous resources, mentorship, and advocacy for veteran entrepreneurs year-round. Held annually from March 1-7, NIVW offers initiatives like FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠, which specifically address the challenges faced by female veterans, providing leadership training, funding education, and business development tools.

Explore more about FeMil℠: National Invest in Veterans Week: FeMil℠ and Leadership Programs.

2. Expanding the Scope with Global Outreach

NVSBW centers its efforts on nationwide events and workshops, focusing on localized SBA initiatives such as VBOCs, SCORE mentoring, and contracting opportunities. NIVW, on the other hand, spans 62 global markets, connecting veterans to resources tailored to both local and international business landscapes through platforms like FloridaVeterans.com and GermanyVeterans.com.

Learn more about global outreach: National Invest in Veterans Week: Driving Innovation Across 62 Global Markets.

Key Differences Between NIVW and NVSBW

Aspect National Veterans Small Business Week (NVSBW) National Invest in Veterans Week® (NIVW) Duration One week in November Year-round programming, observed annually March 1-7 Global Reach U.S.-focused events 62 global markets connecting veterans locally and internationally Programs for Women General support through SBA FeMil℠ and FeMil Lead℠ targeted at female veterans Legislative Advocacy Limited to SBA-backed policies Advocates for the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act and systemic change

Legislative Advocacy: Closing the Gap

NVSBW provides training on government contracting and programs like SDVOSB certification, which is critical for federal contracts. However, NIVW goes beyond training by advocating for systemic changes through the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act and supporting legislation like the Complete the Mission Act of 2024. These efforts aim to address gaps in funding, simplify contracting processes, and ensure equitable access to resources.

Read more about legislative advocacy: Championing the Complete the Mission Act of 2024.

Technology-Driven Innovation: The π Domains

NIVW’s π (Pledge to Invest) = Veteran Businesses℠ domains represent a groundbreaking approach to leveraging technology for entrepreneurial success. These platforms provide:

• π.guru: Mentorship networks connecting veterans with industry leaders.

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

• π.solutions: Strategies to overcome entrepreneurial challenges.

These tools transform how veterans access resources, making NIVW an innovation leader in veteran advocacy.

Economic and Social Impact of Veteran-Owned Businesses

Veteran-owned businesses contribute over $1.2 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. NIVW amplifies this impact by:

• Expanding access to funding and contracting opportunities globally.

• Fostering job creation through scalable veteran-led enterprises.

• Promoting innovation across industries like technology, green energy, and healthcare.

For more on NIVW’s economic contributions: Kevin D. Shoun: Transformational Leadership.

The Call for a More Comprehensive Approach

NVSBW is an important initiative for celebrating veteran entrepreneurs, but its scope is limited. National Invest in Veterans Week® fills this gap by providing sustained support, advocating for policy changes, and connecting veterans across borders to opportunities that NVSBW cannot.

Get Involved with NIVW

• Join the movement to empower veterans at National Invest in Veterans Week®.

• Advocate for systemic change by supporting the Invest in Veterans Stimulus Act.

• Explore innovative platforms like π.guru and π.directory to connect with global resources.

By supporting NIVW, we move beyond celebrating veteran entrepreneurs and begin transforming the landscape of veteran-owned businesses, ensuring they lead with resilience, innovation, and purpose.