A Journey of Respect

February 07, 2023

A Journey of Respect

Respect is a fundamental human trait that is essential for building healthy relationships and communities. It involves recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances.

With this blog we launch our Respect Campaign, where we will highlight the stories of individuals who have faced hardship, overcome challenges, and achieved greatness through their hard work and determination. These individuals serve as inspiration for us all, and demonstrate the transformative power of respect in action.

Through their experiences, we can learn valuable lessons about how we can all strive to treat others with kindness, compassion, and respect. Whether you are seeking to overcome your own challenges or looking to make a positive impact in your community, these stories will remind you of the importance of treating others with respect.


Also in Ascend Together Initiative

Stories of Honor: Matthew Lewellen
Stories of Honor: Matthew Lewellen

December 31, 2024

Matt Lewellen’s life is a testament to the power of leadership, patriotism, and resilience. Through the memories shared by his father, Charles Lewellen, we see a man whose legacy continues to inspire. Matt’s humor and camaraderie lifted spirits, even in the most challenging moments, and his unwavering dedication to his team and mission exemplified the best of humanity.
Stories of Honor: Don McFaul
Stories of Honor: Don McFaul

December 20, 2024

After stepping away from the Navy in 1985 to pursue civilian life, Don soon realized that the challenges, camaraderie, and sense of purpose within the SEAL Teams were irreplaceable. He returned to the Naval Special Warfare Community in 1988, sharpening his skills at the Defense Language Institute for Spanish before joining SEAL Team FOUR. His deployments took him across the globe, including missions in the Persian Gulf and Panama, where he served with Naval Special Warfare Unit EIGHT.

Respect Campaign: Sandy Garcia
Respect Campaign: Sandy Garcia

October 14, 2024

“I am a United States Air Force Veteran. After my enlistment ended I was honorably discharged and continued my service as a military spouse to my husband who is a retired USAF Master Sergeant, Simon Garcia. After his retirement, he found mountain biking and joined a veteran non-profit right at its inception in 2018 called The Dirt Therapy Project (TDTP). We are now both Texas Chapter Leads & ambassadors for the program and volunteer to take veterans of all skill levels out bike-riding or hiking in the San Antonio area. I also volunteer at another veteran non-profit called Rustic Ranch. We go out to the ranch to lend a hand whether it's moving dirt, clearing land, or working the booth at their fundraiser. I also work as an assistant at an Acupuncture clinic while I finish the Texas Medical Board process to obtain my own Acupuncture license.” - Sandy Garcia