Retrospective: R2W at the White House – A Defining Moment in Advocacy for Wounded Warriors

In July 2011, Project: Return to Work Inc. (R2W) reached a pivotal milestone when its founder, Rob Brazell, and board member Jay D. VanderWerff were invited to a daylong White House briefing. This event was more than a ceremonial visit—it was a powerful recognition of R2W’s grassroots impact and its unwavering commitment to serving disabled veterans and Wounded Warriors. 

A Seat at the Table 

The White House gathering brought together community leaders from across the nation to engage directly with senior officials. For R2W, this was an opportunity to elevate the voices of veterans and their families at the highest levels of government. Rob Brazell’s remarks—calling it “the most open White House in history”—captured the spirit of collaboration and transparency that defined the event. 

Policy Meets Purpose 

The discussions centered on federal initiatives supporting disabled Americans, with a strong emphasis on veterans’ affairs. R2W’s mission aligned seamlessly with the administration’s priorities, particularly through the Joining Forces initiative, which aimed to support military families through employment, education, and wellness programs. 

This alignment catalyzed a strategic shift in R2W’s operations. Following the White House visit and subsequent engagements with the Department of Defense and other agencies, R2W began restructuring its business model to more rapidly respond to the employment needs of Wounded Warriors. This transformation laid the groundwork for future partnerships and program expansions. 

Legacy and Impact 

Looking back from 2025, this moment stands as a testament to R2W’s credibility and influence. It validated the organization’s work since its founding in 1998 and helped shape its trajectory in the years that followed. The White House visit also reinforced R2W’s role as a bridge between federal policy and local action, ensuring that the needs of veterans were not only heard but addressed. 

Today, as R2W continues to evolve—navigating funding challenges, expanding digital outreach, and reimagining workforce development—the 2011 White House briefing remains a proud chapter in its history. It reminds us that meaningful change begins with courageous conversations, and that grassroots organizations like R2W can indeed shape national policy.

By Raghav Singh, Lead Administrative Assistant