Jeff Shuford’s Retirement: Honoring a Legacy of Service and Advocacy

After years of groundbreaking leadership, unwavering dedication to veterans, and impactful innovations, Jeff Shuford has officially announced his retirement, marking the end of an illustrious chapter in his life. Known as the co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), Shuford has decided to step back entirely from public events and active engagements, committing instead to a quieter and well-earned retirement. His plans involve embracing simplicity and doing absolutely nothing—no speaking tours, no appearances, and no commitments. It’s a deliberate and mindful decision to embrace personal peace after years of selfless service.

A Trailblazer in Veteran Advocacy

Jeff Shuford’s journey is one defined by a deep sense of purpose and a mission to empower veterans. His leadership was instrumental in the creation and success of National Invest In Veterans Week®, an initiative that champions the voices of veterans and amplifies the contributions of veteran-owned businesses. Under his guidance, NIVW grew into an internationally recognized movement, celebrated in 19 U.S. markets and across 21 international communities, earning a place in the Congressional Record.

This monumental success was driven by Shuford’s strategic foresight, his ability to connect with people, and his unrelenting drive to create a better future for veterans. He tackled challenges ranging from veteran mental health issues to fostering economic opportunities for those transitioning to civilian life. His leadership not only inspired change but also created pathways for thousands of veterans to thrive.

A Quiet Transition

In December 2024, Shuford surprised many by announcing his decision to step down from all formal roles for NIVW. This decision was made not out of necessity, but as a personal choice to prioritize simplicity and mindfulness. For Shuford, retirement does not mean stepping into a different phase of public life—it means truly stepping away.

While his wife, Angel Shuford, and trusted colleague, LTC Rickey L. Pope, now lead NIVW into the future, Shuford has chosen to retreat from public engagements entirely. This break from the limelight reflects his philosophy that even leaders deserve the chance to rest, recharge, and redefine their lives on their terms.

Reflections on a Storied Legacy

Shuford’s career accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary. During his time with NIVW, he:

• Secured Congressional Recognition: National Invest In Veterans Week® became a nationally celebrated initiative, entered into the Congressional Record as a testament to its impact.

• Expanded Internationally: The movement spread across 40 global markets, including the United Kingdom, South Korea, and Germany, fostering a worldwide network of veteran advocates.

• Promoted Mental Health Awareness: Through programs like the Vets 22 app, Shuford made veteran mental health and suicide prevention central to his mission, saving countless lives.

• Empowered Veteran-Owned Businesses: NIVW provided tools, resources, and visibility for veterans to succeed in entrepreneurship, strengthening local economies and creating new opportunities.

Beyond his organizational achievements, Shuford exemplified integrity and selflessness. He famously declined a salary from NIVW, underscoring his belief that the initiative was about advocacy, not profit. His ethos—“This is a movement, not a business”—has become a rallying cry for all who continue his work.

Family Roots and Inspiration

Shuford’s commitment to excellence and service is deeply rooted in his family history. His grandfather, Jim Freeman, was a founding member of the legendary doo-wop group The Five Satins, best known for their timeless hit “In the Still of the Night.” Freeman’s artistic legacy of breaking boundaries and inspiring others left an indelible mark on Shuford, shaping his vision and values.

This sense of legacy guided Shuford throughout his career, as he strove to leave behind a movement that would stand the test of time—just as his grandfather’s music continues to inspire generations.

The Decision to Do Nothing

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of Shuford’s retirement is his decision to fully embrace rest. Unlike many leaders who remain active in advisory roles or embark on post-retirement speaking engagements, Shuford is intentionally stepping away from it all.

In his own words:

“I’ve spent years fighting for causes, creating movements, and driving change. Now, I want to experience the quiet moments—to enjoy the life I’ve worked so hard to build and just be present. It’s time to rest, reflect, and simply live.”

Shuford’s choice is a powerful reminder that stepping back is not a loss but a gift—an acknowledgment that life’s greatest rewards often come in stillness.

A Legacy That Endures

While Shuford may no longer be actively involved in NIVW, his legacy remains firmly embedded in the organization’s DNA. Under the capable leadership of Angel Shuford and LTC Rickey L. Pope, the initiative is set to continue its work, expanding into new markets and finding innovative ways to support veterans.

Even as Shuford retires to a life of quiet simplicity, the impact of his work will continue to ripple across generations. His legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to service—a legacy that will inspire all who follow in his footsteps.

Conclusion

Jeff Shuford’s retirement is a celebration of a remarkable career and a life well-lived. His decision to step away entirely, to embrace a life of stillness and reflection, is as bold and inspiring as his career itself.

As Shuford moves into this new chapter, he leaves behind a legacy of empowerment, advocacy, and integrity. For those who have had the privilege of witnessing his work, his story serves as a powerful testament to the enduring impact of service, leadership, and the quiet strength of knowing when to let go.

Press Release: National Invest In Veterans Week Bestows Honorary Title on Jeff Shuford

December 14, 2024 – Celebrating Vision and Impact

National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW), the nationwide initiative co-founded by Jeff Shuford, has announced the bestowal of an honorary title on Shuford in recognition of his groundbreaking contributions to veteran advocacy and entrepreneurship. This honorary designation cements his legacy as a visionary leader whose work continues to empower veterans and inspire future generations.

A Legacy of Service
Jeff Shuford’s journey began with his distinguished military service during Operation Iraqi Freedom 06-07, earning accolades such as the Combat Action Badge. Transitioning to civilian life, Shuford channeled his experiences into founding initiatives like Tech From Vets and NIVW, which have become cornerstones in supporting veteran-owned businesses and addressing critical issues such as mental health and economic empowerment.

Symbolic Leadership
The honorary title recognizes Shuford not just as a founder but as a symbolic leader embodying the resilience, innovation, and determination of the veteran community. As the first Black individual to successfully trademark a national observance, Shuford has broken barriers while spotlighting the pivotal role veterans play in driving the economy.

Jeff Shuford Impact Day℠: A Tribute to Visionary Leadership
The announcement coincides with the celebration of Jeff Shuford Impact Day℠, observed annually on March 7th. This special day honors Shuford's birthday and his unmatched contributions to veteran advocacy and entrepreneurship. From fostering partnerships to developing platforms that amplify veterans’ voices, Shuford’s work exemplifies the theme of service and transformation.

Expanding a Global Mission
Under Shuford’s leadership, NIVW has grown into an internationally recognized initiative, syndicated across 19 U.S. markets and 21 international markets. This expansion highlights Shuford’s ability to bridge cultural and economic divides, uniting communities under a shared mission to honor veterans' sacrifices and contributions.

Recognition and Honors
Shuford’s accolades include a Congressional Record entry for NIVW, citations in renowned publications like Nature.com and NIH, and awards such as the BizTech Award from Comcast Business. His multigenerational legacy, intertwined with his grandfather Jim Freeman’s musical achievements, adds a unique cultural dimension to his advocacy work.

Looking Ahead
As National Invest In Veterans Week® continues to evolve, the honorary title bestowed upon Jeff Shuford serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of one individual’s vision. Shuford’s ability to innovate, advocate, and inspire makes him a beacon of hope and progress for veterans worldwide.

This honor underscores the transformative power of leadership rooted in service, symbolizing the ongoing journey toward a brighter, more inclusive future for the veteran community.

National Invest In Veterans Week® Historic International Domains Global Reach & Expansion

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 22, 2024 – Washington D.C. – To commemorate the 7 year anniversary of their award-winning Vets 22 brand, in a landmark initiative, National Invest In Veterans Week® proudly announces a historic expansion of its digital footprint through the acquisition of new international and state-specific domain names. Under the continued direction of Jeff Shuford’s Tech From Vets, this monumental enhancement of our digital resources is designed to dramatically broaden the reach and impact of our services for active-duty service members and veterans both globally and across the United States, further cementing our role as a pivotal hub for the congressionally recognized Invest In Veterans Week brand.

This year marks a significant milestone with the introduction of a series of international domain names, including SouthKoreaVeterans.com, GermanyVeterans.com, AustraliaVeterans.com, JapanVeterans.com, UnitedKingdomVeterans.com, and Veterans.International. These new platforms will serve as vital access points for our international veteran communities, offering localized content and resources tailored specifically to meet the needs and address the unique challenges faced by veterans in these regions.

In addition to these international gateways, we are reaffirming our commitment to U.S. veterans with an expanded portfolio of state-specific sites including LouisianaVeterans.com, KansasVeterans.com, RhodeIslandVeterans.com, NewHampshireVeterans.com, DelawareVeterans.com, PennsylvaniaVeterans.com, SouthCarolinaVeterans.com, MississippiVeterans.com, WyomingVeterans.com, WestVirginiaVeterans.com, TennesseeVeterans.com, NewJerseyVeterans.com, NorthDakotaVeterans.com, Veterans.International, FloridaVeterans.com, AustraliaVeterans.com, SouthKoreaVeterans.com, GermanyVeterans.com, JapanVeterans.com, UnitedKingdomVeterans.com, NatoVeterans.com, UnitedNationsVeterans.com, Veterans.International, ItalyVeterans.com, TurkeyVeterans.com, FranceVeterans.com, NorwayVeterans.com, SpainVeterans.com, InvestInVeteransWeek.com, PolandVeterans.com, BrazilVeterans.com, Netherlandsveterans.com, BelgiumVeterans.com, PortugalVeterans.com, and IcelandVeterans.com, among others. These sites have become crucial in delivering customized support and fostering deep connections with local veteran communities across the nation.

"The addition of these new domains represents not just a strategic enhancement but a historic enlargement of National Invest In Veterans Week's mission to honor, support, and empower veterans wherever they may be," said Lonnell McCall II, the organization's newest Spokesperson. "By expanding our digital reach, we are not only able to provide more comprehensive resources but also create a stronger, more connected community of veterans worldwide."

This strategic expansion is part of a broader visionary effort to ensure that every veteran, regardless of their location, has access to support, advice, and opportunities that can aid in their transition to civilian life and enhance their post-service well-being. These dedicated platforms are set to facilitate improved communication, share valuable resources, and promote events that are specifically geared towards the veteran community, marking a significant epoch in the advocacy and support for our veterans.

About National Invest In Veterans Week®

National Invest In Veterans Week® is an annual event dedicated to the appreciation and empowerment of military veterans. By providing resources, support, and advocacy, the initiative highlights the critical role veterans play in our communities and the economy, and it is recognized by Congress for its substantial efforts in these endeavors. This initiative stands as a beacon of gratitude and support, reflecting our nation's high regard and commitment to those who have served.