Supporter Spotlight: Matt Skinner
Our supporters constantly inspire us! From coast to coast, we are grateful to reach so many patriotic Americans through our mission and messages and then see how you rally those in your communities to follow suit.
Matt Skinner came across Boot Campaign on Instagram and has been an avid supporter of our mission and YOU MATTER message ever since. He’s laced up with us, donned our YOU MATTER gear and joined in a number of physical and mental challenges, like our Military Appreciation Month efforts in May.
We asked Matt to share more of his story and why he supports the Veterans and military families we serve.
Why do you feel it is important to show support and gratitude to our nation’s servicemen and women?
My connection to our military is through friends who are Veterans and those who are currently serving. My wife’s Great Uncle “Hap” served during WWII and is the only family connection I have.
Those who make the choice to serve our country sacrifice so much. Especially the time spent away from families. I’m blessed (even though I have teenagers!) to watch almost every moment of their lives. I’m there for the good, bad and in between. Deployed individuals miss out on some of these moments. If I can be a part of making their lives easier when they return, it’s the least I can do.
What would you say to someone like you who wants to do something that makes a difference in the lives of military service members or their families?
Funding and resources are most critical to make lasting change. However, those who need help often find it hard to take the first step. Those who want to help should start small and focus on their local communities. The more we talk, the more we can help.
How did you first hear about Boot Campaign?
I was so happy to find Boot Campaign on Instagram a few years ago. My main focus on mental health is starting conversations. I’ve never been able to raise large sums of money, but I enjoy talking. I’ve found, in my own struggles, and those of my friends and family, that the first step of asking for help is the hardest.
I enjoy the simplicity of Boot Campaign’s messages. Just two words, “You Matter.” Creating change in our communities doesn’t always have to come from grand gestures and huge commitments. Everyone can wear RED or a YOU MATTER cap. If someone knows I care, maybe that will create the opening, the safe space, for them to reach out for help. It doesn’t take a lot to create lasting change.
To join Matt in our Military Appreciation Month efforts to get active and raise support this May, visit bootcampaign.org/militaryappreciationmonth.
