connect: Military and Veteran Community 

Happy Father’s Day to every man who shows up in the trenches of life... not just for the shiny, polished moments, but for the hard ones. The ones that don’t make headlines. The quiet, relentless, everyday battles that require grit, patience, and a kind of love that doesn’t need to be seen to be real. Today, I want to share the story of my father, General Larry O. Spencer, retired United States Air Force, a man whose journey is about far more than uniforms and stars.

There are countless nonprofits doing vital work in our communities, but every now and then, one stands out—an organization that not only serves, but heals. One that shows up with purpose and creates a lasting impact. Each month, I like to shine a light on a nonprofit whose mission truly resonates, especially those centered on remembrance, connection, and hope. This month, I’m honored to highlight one that’s deeply meaningful to me: wear blue: run to remember. A Mission That S

In 2009, while I was serving on active duty, I was assaulted by someone in uniform. Someone I trusted. It was violent. It was dehumanizing. And when I turned to the system for help, the system turned its back on me. There was no SHARP program then. No proper support. The Army protected the predator. And I was left to carry the aftermath by myself—discharged, ashamed, and broken. He went on to hurt others. I went home and tried to survive. Military Sexual Trauma forever cha