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Looking Back R2W’s 2009 Welcome Event for Wounded Warriors at Fort Carson

FORT CARSON, CO — In 2009, Project: Return to Work Inc. (R2W) played a vital role in honoring and supporting wounded warriors returning from Iraq and Afghanistan through its signature “Wounded Warrior Welcome Social” at Fort Carson. 

At the time, the Warrior Transition Unit (WTU) served as a critical waypoint for injured service members—some preparing to rejoin their units, others beginning the transition to civilian life through medical discharge. Regardless of their path, the Welcome Social offered a moment of recognition, connection, and hope. 

The event was part of a long-standing tradition initiated in 2006 by LTC Joe Gmelch, who began hosting monthly socials to welcome and uplift transitioning soldiers. By 2009, these gatherings had become a cornerstone of community support, even as the frequency shifted to quarterly due to a decline in combat-related injuries. 

The January 2009 social drew notable attendees, including U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and Mrs. Colorado Christina Sacha, reflecting the community’s deep appreciation for its service members. Major General Mark Graham, then Commanding General of Division West, First Army and Fort Carson, was also present to personally greet the soldiers. 

Rob Brazell, President of R2W, attended alongside his father Ray Brazell, a WWII Marine, and a team of R2W Employment Specialists—many of whom were veterans themselves. R2W’s mission was clear: to provide free vocational rehabilitation services to injured soldiers, using a unique blend of advanced technology and personalized job placement strategies. 

The event allowed R2W specialists to connect directly with wounded soldiers and Marines, offering guidance and reassurance about life after service. “Once the word gets out about what we do, R2W is always requested and accepted,” said one specialist. “The soldiers walk away knowing they’ll be taken care of.” 

R2W’s slogan—“Back to Work, Back to Life”—captured the spirit of the event and the organization’s enduring commitment to helping veterans reclaim their futures. 

 

By Raghav Singh, Lead Administrative Assistant

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R2W Sponsors: Powering Possibilities for American Heroes

At Project: Return to Work Inc. (R2W), we are proud to partner with some of the world’s most innovative and impactful organizations—including Microsoft, Google, Suitable, and many more. These sponsors share our mission to empower Americans with disabilities, injured veterans, and their families through meaningful employment and career development.  

Why Sponsorship Matters. 

 

R2W believes in the power of collaboration. By networking with community leaders and industry giants, we amplify our ability to deliver life-changing services. Our sponsors contribute not only funding, but also technology, expertise, and visibility—helping us reach more people and create lasting impact.  

 

Each year, R2W participates in highly publicized events where sponsor logos are proudly displayed across our website, marketing materials, and media coverage. Members of our elite Employers Corps—pillars of the community—are recognized at events and in interviews for their outstanding support.  

Programs You Can Support  

 

Sponsors and donors can choose to support a variety of impactful programs:  

  • General Fund  
  • A JOB FOR LIFE Endowment  
  • Sponsor Events  
  • Sponsor Injured Veterans & Families  
  • Job Posting & Screening Services  
  • Mentor Program  
  • STEM Internship Program  

 

These programs are designed to provide long-term support and career pathways for those who need it most.  

Join the Movement  

 

R2W has helped thousands of American Heroes and their families over the decades. With your support, we can continue to grow our reach and deepen our impact. Whether you’re a tech company, a local business, or an individual donor, your contribution helps build a more inclusive workforce.

 

By Raghav Singh, Lead Administrative Assistant

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Fran Nixon Award 2018

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

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🎯 Using AI to Improve Outreach: R2W Launches User Engagement Research Initiative

August 31, 2025 — Project Return to Work Inc. (R2W) is proud to announce a new research initiative led by Raghav Singh, a Business Intelligence Developer at R2W and a graduate student in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Colorado State University. This project aims to uncover patterns in user engagement on the R2W website to enhance outreach and messaging strategies. 

The research explores a central question:
“What patterns in user engagement on the Project Return to Work website could help inform and improve outreach or messaging efforts?” 

To answer this, Raghav is combining cutting-edge analytics tools with thoughtful survey design. A Qualtrics survey will be deployed to gather qualitative insights from visitors—asking how they arrived at the site, what content resonated with them, and what emotions they experienced during their visit. These responses will help contextualize the quantitative data collected through Google Analytics, including metrics like: 

  • Click-through rates 
  • Page views and time on page 
  • Bounce rates and exit pages 
  • Traffic sources and user flow analysis 

“This is about finding the intersection between numbers and narratives,” Raghav explains. “If someone says they felt inspired by a veteran success story, and we see high scroll depth and time-on-page for that story, that’s a strong signal. But if users bounce quickly from the homepage, that tells us something needs to change.” 

The survey will be accessible via the R2W landing page and promoted across social media platforms. On-site feedback forms and pop-up surveys may also be used to increase participation—balanced carefully to avoid overwhelming users. 

Beyond improving the website, this initiative has strategic implications. By identifying which traffic sources bring in the most engaged users—not just the most users—R2W can prioritize outreach efforts more effectively. For example, LinkedIn may attract fewer visitors, but those visitors might be more likely to donate or engage deeply with content. 

Raghav’s work reflects a broader commitment to data-driven decision-making at R2W. “Setting up a GA4 property and web stream is a profound contribution,” he notes. “But it often requires advocacy and persistence. The insights we gain will help us better serve our mission and connect with the people who need us most.”

 

By Raghav Singh, Business Intelligence Developer

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Looking Back: R2W’s 26th Annual Awards Ceremony (May 2024)

Last year, Project: Return To Work Inc. (R2W) proudly hosted its 26th Annual Awards Ceremony, celebrating the dedication of volunteers and community leaders who have helped veterans and people with disabilities return to work and life. 

Two Celebrations, One Mission 

To better serve our honorees and engage local communities, we held ceremonies in both Englewood, Florida and Boulder, Colorado. Special thanks to: 

  • Ronald Aylward, Executive Director of Heritage Oaks of Englewood, for hosting in Florida 
  • Chris Lites, for opening his clubhouse in Colorado 
  • General Thomas Mills, who presented medals in Colorado 

Presidential Honors 

Gold medals were awarded through the President’s Volunteer Service Awards, with recognition from President Joe Biden: 

Florida Honorees: 

  • Fern Ballou 
  • Debbie Henderson 

Colorado Honorees: 

  • Rob Brazell 
  • Pastor Hosea Cannon Jr. 
  • Larry Gustafson 
  • Jay VanderWerff 
  • Chuck Wright 

Additionally, Rob Brazell received a Lifetime Achievement Award, and R2W was honored with a Company Gold Medal. 

Spiritual Leadership and Community Support 

Prayers were led by: 

  • Pastor Hosea Cannon Jr., Chaplain, Denver Sheriff’s Department (Colorado) 
  • Chaplain Jim Mosely, American Legion Post 113 (Florida) 

Rob Brazell also read a prayer from the Committee on Publications, 1st Church of Christ Scientists, Englewood, Florida, where Fern Ballou and Debbie Henderson are members. 

Words That Inspired 

The ceremonies featured moving testimonials and speeches from: 

  • Fern Ballou, Debbie Henderson, and Ron Aylward in Florida 
  • General Thomas Mills, Chuck Wright, Pastor Hosea Cannon Jr., Larry Gustafson, and Rob Brazell in Colorado 

Notable attendees included neighbors, church members, first responders, and dignitaries such as Elisabeth Patierno, President, and Robert Patierno, Commander, American Legion Post 113, Rotonda West, Florida. 

A Personal Reflection from Fern Ballou 

“I thought my working years were over when my company moved away. But after a chance meeting with Rob Brazell at our church in Englewood, he asked for my resume and hired me. I never imagined it would lead to this award. It’s been deeply gratifying to help veterans and others with disabilities return to work and life. I’m still volunteering and grateful every day.” 

Support Still Needed 

As economic conditions evolve, grant foundations increasingly require nonprofits to demonstrate strong individual and corporate donor support. Every contribution helps sustain R2W’s mission. 

“Heritage Oaks of Englewood doesn’t just say ‘This isn’t like home, it is home’—they live it. Thank you to Ron, Kimberly, Chris, and all the staff and volunteers who made this celebration possible.”
— Fern Ballou, R2W Chaplain and Director 

 

By Raghav Singh, Lead Administrative Assistant

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The Fight Continues – A Dream Come True

By Raghav Singh, Lead STEM Intern.  

R2W helped its first soldier nearly three decades ago.  With just two months left before completing his active-duty military service, Sergeant Logan Jubeck had to prepare for a new chapter in life—one filled with opportunity, purpose, and hope. Thanks to the support of the nonprofit organization Project: Return to Work Inc. (R2W), Logan was able to envision a future that he once felt out of reach.

SGT Logan Jubeck was R2W’s first soldier via the National Guard’s Community Based Health Care Organization (CBHCO) nearly three decades ago.

Without [R2W] I probably could have found a job on my own, but it wouldn’t have been as easy.”  Seargent Logan Jubeck

Injured while serving in Iraq, Jubeck found himself on another path with the National Guard’s Community Based Health Care Origination (CBHCO) where he met Rob Brazell, R2W’s Founder, and his father and Uncles at a special Muster for injured soldiers. When he learned about R2W, he saw a chance to move forward with confidence.

Rob and Fran Brazell quickly found an employer in a civil engineering field that Jubeck was just dreaming about.  He didn’t have the prerequisite education or experience, but the employer waived the requirements for Jubeck and mentored him while providing a high salary that helped stabilize his family after his combat injuries.

“I had a little bit of schooling and a little bit of experience, but I probably wouldn’t have had the courage to apply…”  Seargent Logan Jubeck

R2W was founded in 1998 by Rob Brazell, his mother Frankie (Fran) Nixon Brazell, his father Ray Brazell, and his lifetime mentor, Malcolm Crawford out of his victories over severe injuries and terminal illness.  They created R2W to help injured Guard and Reserve members transition from military to civilian life. “… we offer extensive vocational rehabilitation services,” Brazell explained. “And right now, there are a lot of employers looking for soldiers.” 

R2W partners with businesses and volunteers across the country to connect veterans with meaningful employment opportunities. The organization has helped over 10,000 individuals find jobs they never imagined possible—jobs that match their skills and values to bring out their resiliency.

Logan’s story is a testament to R2W’s mission empowering veterans to reclaim their futures. “These soldiers have an attitude that just can’t be beat,” said Brazell. “They may have lost their arms or legs, but they have a spirit that says, ‘I’m going to fight, I’m going to win, and I’m never going to give up.’

“These soldiers have an attitude that just can’t be beat.”   Rob Brazell.

 

As Logan separated from the military, he was able to renew his hope and find a clear path forward—thanks to the unwavering support of Project: Return To Work Inc.  (R2W) .

 

About The Author

Raghav Singh
– Lead STEM Intern
“As a Business Intelligence Developer with three years of experience and a Bachelor’s in Information Science, I transform complex data into actionable insights. I’m passionate about making a meaningful impact, particularly in empowering veterans, disabled civilians, and sundry communities, through my work with Project: Return To Work Inc. (R2W).”  (read more)

 

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A Summer of Purpose at R2W

By Alexander Baker, STEM Intern

This summer at Project:  Return to Work Inc. (R2W) showed me what it really means to make a difference.

From crafting news posts that highlight success stories to organizing event posts that bring our community together, every piece of content I created had a purpose bigger than myself. I attended dog shows, participated in heartbeats sessions, and helped coordinate workshops, all while watching how these efforts directly impact veterans and others seeking meaningful employment.

R2W STEM Interns enjoying a free meal at Naked Lunch

What started as a summer position became something I couldn’t walk away from. The work isn’t just rewarding, it’s essential. Veterans have given so much to our country, and being part of their journey back into civilian careers feels like the least I can do to give back.

That’s why I’m continuing with R2W this semester. When you find work that aligns with your values and creates real impact, you hold onto it. This isn’t just a job for me anymore. It’s a mission I’m proud to be part of.

As we head into fall, I’m excited to keep connecting veterans with opportunities, one post and one workshop at a time.

 

 

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Project Return to Work Faces Funding Freeze After Transformative Summer Internship Program

Boulder, CO — Return to Work Inc. (R2W), a nonprofit focused on helping disabled veterans and underserved individuals reenter the workforce, is grappling with a sudden government funding freeze that has left the organization with staffing issues. The freeze comes on the heels of a highly successful summer internship program that brought together young professionals, seasoned volunteers, and a mission-driven leadership team. 

 

Founded by Rob Brazell, R2W has long operated at the intersection of compassion and innovation. This summer, the organization hosted a cohort of STEM interns who contributed to grant writing, business intelligence development, and digital outreach. The program ended on August 15, but its impact continues to resonate. 

 

“We have achieved a lot and built something that will run on autopilot,” said one team member in a farewell message shared internally. “It’s always the first few new projects that are the most challenging, so you have all played a critical role in the outrageous success that is to come.” 

 

The message, which reflected both gratitude and concern, praised the interns for their professionalism and highlighted Brazell’s sacrifices to keep the program running. According to internal sources, much of the funding for the summer came directly from Brazell’s pocket. 

 

“He put his health and money on the line so that he could take care of us,” the message continued. “A lot of the money from this summer came from his pockets, and that’s unacceptable to me.” 

R2W STEM Interns enjoying a free meal at Naked Lunch

Brazell’s leadership style has earned admiration from staff and volunteers alike. Known for his dedication to the mission and his willingness to mentor without expectation, Brazell has cultivated a culture of loyalty and purpose. Volunteers such as Gayleen Pratt, Ryan Chester, and Bob Bloxam — all respected professionals — continue to support R2W’s work, underscoring the organization’s credibility and reach. 

 

The funding freeze has disrupted plans to scale operations and secure long-term sustainability. Yet, the team remains optimistic. Systems built during the summer are expected to continue functioning, and the relationships formed are likely to yield future opportunities. 

“I’m taking today to feel sad about everything that has been lost by my failure to secure funding,” the team member wrote. “Tomorrow I’m getting up off the mat and fighting like I have never fought before.” 

 

The broader context of the freeze reflects growing concerns about the labor market and the pace of technological change. As one staff member noted, “Government policy is not within light-years of even alleviating some of the direst consequences” of these shifts. 

Despite the challenges, R2W’s mission endures. The organization continues to advocate for meaningful employment, mentorship, and community reintegration — values that remain central to its work. 

📌 Support the mission: 

  • Volunteer: www.return2work.org/volunteer 
  • Sponsor a program: www.return2work.org/sponsor 
  • Learn more: www.return2work.org/about 
  • Donate: www.return2work.org/donate 

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A Win for Community and Canine Champions

By Raghav Singh, R2W Lead STEM Intern Summer 2025  

Project:  Return To Work Inc.  (R2W) just co-hosted its most innovative Heartbeat yet with the Scottish Terrier Club of Greater Denver (STCGD) at their Specialty Shows this year.  Sponsors, job seekers, employers, volunteer mentors, and mascots– it all came together for one of our community’s most impactful events yet.

The Greeley Kennel Club wrapped up its highly anticipated 2025 All-Breed Dog Shows this weekend at Island Grove Regional Park, drawing thousands of spectators and over 1,900 canine entries per day. The five-day event featured three All-Breed Shows, two Hound Group Shows, and more than 23 Breed Specialties, along with Obedience and Rally Trials, Barn Hunt, Dock Diving, and the AKC National Owner-Handled Series.

Among the standout participants were Olive (Yang) and Bilbo (Yin), two purebred Scottish Terrier puppies representing Project: Return To Work Inc. (R2W)—a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans, disabled civilians, and military families find meaningful employment. These Scotties, bred from champion lines by Charlie Gann of Gallica Scottish Terriers and Annel Henderson of LockerB Kennel, earned First Place and Best Puppy honors, bringing pride and excitement to the R2W team.

In a video released by R2W, Rob Brazell, R2w’s Founder, and Anell Henderson of the Scottish Terrier Club of Greater Denver appeared alongside the winning dogs, celebrating the joy and healing that animals bring to the organization’s mission. “We were very happy to return to the Greeley Kennel Club with the help of the Scottish Terrier Club of Greater Denver,” said Brazell. “Both of our beautiful mascots, Bilbo and Olive, won first place ribbons—and we look forward to many more.”

R2W’s participation in the show reflects its broader commitment to community engagement and holistic rehabilitation. “Thank you to everyone for your support, donations, and tireless work toward making our mission possible,” said a spokesperson in the video.

📺 Watch the video:

👉 Coming soon to R2W’s YouTube channel

📖 Read more about Charlie Gann and Gallica Scottish Terriers:

👉 https://return2work.org/2025/08/01/charlie-gann-a-life-led-by-loyalty-love-and-scottish-terriers

💙 Support R2W’s mission:

👉 https://return2work.org/donate

 

 

Greeley, CO — August 18, 2025

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Greeley Kennel Club Celebrates 75th Anniversary with Top Dogs and Community Impact

The Greeley Kennel Club marked its 75th anniversary with a spectacular five-day celebration of canine excellence at Island Grove Regional Park, drawing over 1,900 entries per day across conformation, obedience, rally, dock diving, barn hunt, and more.

Among the standout participants were Olive (Yang) and Bilbo (Yin), two purebred Scottish Terriers representing Project: Return To Work Inc. (R2W)—a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans, disabled civilians, and military families find meaningful employment. The Scotties, bred from champion lines by Charlie Gann of Gallica Scottish Terriers, earned First Place, Best Puppy, and other top honors in their categories.

The event featured over 23 breed specialties, three All-Breed Shows, and special competitions like the AKC National Owner-Handled Series, Best in Bred-by Exhibitor Group, and the Best in Specialties Show, which awarded a $1,000 prize to the top specialty winner.

R2W Founder Rob Brazell and Anell Henderson of the Scottish Terrier Club of Greater Denver were present to celebrate the wins and highlight the therapeutic and community-building power of dogs. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to get together with the workers of R2W and have dogs be a part of it,” said Charlie Gann, whose legacy in the Scottie world continues to inspire.

The show was sponsored by Royal Canin, with vendors and breed clubs from across the country participating. The atmosphere was festive, inclusive, and deeply rooted in tradition—an ideal setting for R2W to showcase its mission and the joy that animals bring to healing and reintegration.

📖 Read Charlie’s full story:

👉https://return2work.org/2025/08/01/charlie-gann-a-life-led-by-loyalty-love-and-scottish-terriers

💙 Support R2W’s mission:

👉 https://return2work.org/donate

 

By Raghav Singh, Technical Consultant – Project: Return To Work Inc. (R2W)

Greeley, CO — August 14–18, 2025