proud sponsor of Pinup for VETS
Welcome to The Veteran Mentor Project, Inc.!
We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people in need. Our mission is to provide assistance to those who are less fortunate and to create a better world for all. Through our programs and initiatives, we strive to make a positive impact on the world and to help those who need it the most.
Donate Today
Your donation can make a real difference in the lives of those we serve. With your help, we can continue to provide vital services and support to those in need. Every little bit helps, so please consider making a donation today.
988 SUICIde & CRISIS line
emergency?
If you are having a medical emergency or psychiatric emergency call 9-1-1.
If you need or want to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here.
At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life's challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you're facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone. Click on the 988 image or below.
click below to get support at 988 lifeline!
Announcing our 2025 event title sponsor: fortitude recovery
Top-Rated Veteran Addiction Treatment in San Francisco Bay Area
Exclusive, Dedicated Sanctuary for the
Treatment of Our Veterans
Set on a breathtaking private Saratoga Estate, Fortitude Recovery by Summit Estate provides a holistic treatment experience in a comfortable environment with only eight clients at a time to provide the care our Veterans deserve for their honor and service.
Our comprehensive suite of services, from detoxification and residential services to customized outpatient programs, is specifically designed to meet the unique challenges and respect the distinguished service of these individuals.
With a commitment to privacy and individualized care, our programs cater specifically to the needs of Veterans, creating an environment that is both familiar and respectful.
We employ evidence-based therapies such as EMDR, CBT, CPT, and Mindfulness to nurture mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, promoting lasting recovery.
A Personalized Treatment Plan Designed for Veterans
We help active military and veterans heal from traumatic experiences in the line of duty.
ANNOUNCING 2025 Resource fair GOLD SPONSOR: Secure Measures!
About GOLD SPONSOR secure measures:
Secure Measures, LLC delivers expert safety, security, and crisis intervention training tailored to businesses, organizations, and public safety agencies. We specialize in workplace violence prevention, de-escalation, active threat response, emergency preparedness, and veteran-focused crisis intervention. Our customized solutions enhance resilience, ensuring teams are equipped to prevent, respond to, and recover from security threats.
CEO Dave Weiner has generously donated to our Resource Fair as a Gold Sponsor! We appreciate you Dave and please visit his website and show Secure Measures, LLC support!
Announcing inspirational speaker SFC ernesto mariscal!
SFC ernesto Mariscal (Retired)
U.S. Army veteran Ernesto "Ernie" Mariscal is an inspirational speaker who endured abuse as a child, experienced homelessness as a teen, and eventually dropped out of high school.
After facing a near-death experience that changed his life for the better, he went back to school, graduated, and joined the United States Army when he was 19 years old. Ernie proudly served his country for 21 years with two deployments to Iraq. His first deployment was from 2004 to 2005 with the 1st Cavalry Division; and his second from 2009 to 2010 with the 1st Infantry Division, as a combat advisor to Iraqi forces. However grueling his life and military career had been up until that point, Ernie was yet to face his most difficult task after retiring from the Army in 2012—figuring out how to adjust to civilian life.
Click on the photo above and learn more about Ernie! Come out and meet him, too, on May 17, 2025! A true American hero!
Get Involved
In every situation, good or bad, there is always an opportunity to learn and to become a better version of you. 'Keep Up the Fight"!
Click on the image above to check out their apparel!
Announcing musician dylan garcia!
About The Veteran Mentor Project, Inc.
🎶 Special Announcement! 🎶
We are excited and honored to welcome Dylan Garcia to the stage at our Fortitude Recovery 2nd Annual Resources 4 Heroes event on May 17, 2025! 🎤🎸
Dylan Garcia is not only a talented musician and performer, but also a mental health advocate and the owner of Koala Drive LLC Productions. His passion for music, healing, and raising awareness makes him the perfect addition to our event as we bring together veterans, first responders, and their families for a day of support, community, and wellness. 💙🇺🇸
🌟 Event Theme: We are stronger UNITED in the battle for positive mental health. 🌟
Get ready for an unforgettable performance and a day filled with resources, inspiration, and connection!
Announcing open circle with Atz!
About The open circle foundation.
At the Open Circle Foundation, we champion resilience and support those dedicated to making a profound societal impact.
We do this through wilderness and community experiences that restore connection to humanity, purposeful action, and spirit.
NAMI VENTURA COUNTY JOINS THE VETERAN MENTOR PROJECT inc.!
NAMI VENTURA COUNTY
🌟 Exciting News! 🌟
We’re thrilled to announce that NAMI Ventura County is joining The Veteran Mentor Project Inc. — and this year, they’ll be hosting their Annual Walk for Mental Health at our 2nd Annual Veteran, First Responder, and Family Member Resource Fair on May 17, 2025! 🎉👟💙
This is one of East County’s most anticipated events, bringing together support, community, and wellness for those who serve and the families who stand by them. 🇺🇸
NAMI Walk registration link coming soon — stay tuned! In the meantime, make sure to save your spot for the resource fair:
🔗 NAMI VC Walk Registration: Click HERE to register for the NAMI Walk Ventura County
🎉 Event planning by: American Freedom Consulting LLC
Let’s walk, connect, and make a difference — together. 💪
NAMI WALKS VENTURA COUNTY REGISTRATION LINK COMING SOON!
become an event sponsor Today!
ANNOUNCING 2025 SILVER SPONSOR: SIMI VALLEY AMERICAN LEGION POST 484!
The American Legion Simi Valley Post 484 has generously voted to be a sponsor. Sponsorship information coming soon!
The American Legion is a veterans organization that advocates for veterans and their families, and supports communities. Congress chartered the American Legion in 1919. Mission: Promote patriotism and honor, Support veterans and their families, Mentor youth, Strengthen communities, and Promote national security.
ANNOUNCING 2025 EVENT SPONSOR: Valor Home FINANCE
ANNOUNCING 2025 EVENT SPONSOR: SIMI VALLEY DAV Chapter 55
🎉 Exciting Sponsor Announcement! 🎉
We are happy to announce that Valor Home Finance has joined us as a Community Sponsor for the Fortitude Recovery 2nd Annual Resources 4 Heroes event on May 17, 2025! 💙🏡🇺🇸
Valor Home Finance is dedicated to helping veterans, first responders, and their families achieve homeownership and financial stability. Their commitment to serving those who serve makes them an incredible partner in our mission to provide support, resources, and community wellness.
ANNOUNCING 2025 EVENT SPONSOR: SIMI VALLEY DAV Chapter 55
ANNOUNCING 2025 EVENT SPONSOR: SIMI VALLEY DAV Chapter 55
The Simi Valley Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 55 meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month at 3900 Avenida Simi, Simi Valley, CA 93065.
The Disabled American Veterans is an organization created in 1920 by World War I veterans for disabled military veterans of the United States Armed Forces that helps them and their families through various means. It was issued a federal charter by Congress in 1932. It currently has over 1 million members.
ANNOUNCING 2025 EVENT SPONSOR: MISSION F.I.S.H. USA
VETERANS
ACTIVE DUTY
FIRST RESPONDERS
GOLD STAR FAMILIES
Mission Statement
MISSION F.I.S.H. (Fishing, Interacting, Sharing, and Healing) is reconized as the pioneer in providing professional therapy through the power of fishing for Americas Brave and Courageous by creating a safe environment for healing and developing new coping mechanisms ultimately improving the quality of their Daily lives.
Studies have shown that Fishing has mental health benefits. Being in nature can improve your mood and also has positive long term effects on depression and memory. We bring together participants who could be in need of interacting with others while sharing a day together, building friendships and self-esteem.
ANNOUNCING 2025 EVENT SPONSOR: American freedom consultIng llc!
American Freedom Consulting LLC has generously donate project management and event coordination services!
American Freedom Consulting LLC was founded in 2024 and proudly became an Authorized Training Partner (ATP) with the Exam Prep for RBLP® Leadership Certifications.
Our team consists of highly skilled professionals with diverse backgrounds in leadership, military, law enforcement, education, and first responder industries. Each of our instructors is a certified RBLP® Trainer, ensuring the highest standard of leadership education and professional development.
As an RBLP® Leadership Certifications Authorized Training Partner, we adhere to RBLP’s rigorous standards. All ATP instructors are RBLP Trainer certified and must complete an approved leader training course before qualifying for certification.
Service Disabled Veteran Owned
Announcing 2025 event sponsor: Ricochet Hunnay, by Ricochet ranch Properties llc!
Our Commitment to Sustainability & Quality 🐝🌿
At Ricochet Hunnay, we are passionate about promoting sustainable beekeeping practices in California and beyond.
Our Mission
We are committed to:
✔ Sourcing & selling only the healthiest, highest-quality honeys from trusted apiaries worldwide.
✔ Supporting sustainable beekeeping to protect both global and local bee populations.
✔ Championing MADE IN THE USA products, ensuring every jar of honey reflects our dedication to purity, sustainability, and ethical sourcing.
Proudly Veteran Owned
Ricochet Ranch Properties LLC is a 100% Veteran-Owned and 100% Minority-Owned Business, built on the values of hard work, integrity, and commitment to excellence.
🐝 Thank you for supporting our mission and choosing Ricochet Hunnay! 🍯
ANNOUNCING 2025 Food vendor mister softee!
🍦 Exciting News! 🍦
We’re thrilled to announce that Mister Softee will be joining us as a food vendor at the 2nd Annual Veteran, First Responder, and Family Member Resource Fair on May 17, 2025! 🎉
Come out, grab some delicious treats, and connect with an incredible community. With 20+ vendors and counting!
Mister Softee of Southern California opened in October 2015 and currently operates five trucks and two retail stores, one in Camarillo, California and our newest location in East Ventura. We sell soft serve ice cream; cones, sundaes, shakes, floats, banana boats, and more. Additionally, the store offers Non-Dairy Dole Whip and Italian Ice, Fresh Baked Cookies and Brownies. Our Ventura location is also offering Oatly Vegan Chocolate Soft Serve and both locations have Coconut Bliss hard scoop options, with vegan cookie sandwiches coming soon! The trucks and store are available for parties, fundraisers and other events. The trucks serve Ventura County, parts of Los Angeles County, and Santa Barbara county.
ANNOUNCING 2025 food vendor: Taste de to un poco
ANNOUNCING 2025 EVENT SPONSOR: SONNY HORSES 4 Kids
Our Mission:
Bringing SMILES to Children's Faces
while fostering and developing positive interactions and relationships between children and law enforcement. Our programs are designed to foster trust, provide opportunities yeahand personal interactions with law enforcement, build bridges, and promote community engagement,
ultimately creating a SAFER society by reducing fear of
law enforcement, and increasing trust.
ANNOUNCING 2025 EVENT SPONSOR: FIRST RESPONDERS Malibu
Our Mission
Welcome to First Responders Malibu, a place where First Responders can find the care, support, and healing they deserve. We understand the unique challenges you
face—the long hours, the intense stress, and the sacrifices made every day. That is why we have created a safe, confidential, compassionate and culturally-competent environment here you can focus on your recovery without fear of judgment. Here, you’ll be surrounded by others who truly understand your experiences, fostering a sense of community and shared strength.
Whether you are currently serving or retired, our programs are tailored to meet your specific needs. We are dedicated to helping you process trauma, manage stress, and overcome addiction, guiding you toward renewed mental health and well-being. At First Responders Malibu, we believe healing is more than just recovery—it’s about rediscovering a life filled with purpose and peace.
You’ve spent your life helping others. Now it’s time to invest in your own well-being. We are honored to walk alongside you on this journey and are here to support you every step of the way. Take the first step toward a brighter, healthier future, you are not alone.
ANNOUNCING 2025 EVENT SPONSOR: your logo here
Our mission
We provide military veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), Anxiety and Depression – comfort, support, companionship, and a means to heal through;
- Veteran Canine Programs (VCP)
- Emotional Support or Physical/Psychiatric Service Dogs professionally trained specifically for the Veteran’s needs. The level to be determined on the recommendation of veteran’s therapist/doctor.
- Certified/Insured Therapy Dog Teams will visit veterans in nursing homes, assisted living, rehabilitation, therapy sessions, VA hospitals, hospice facilities, Vet Centers, military veteran funerals and also in the privacy of their own home.
- Equine Buddies Program (EBP). This program helps the Veteran form a close bond with the horse and is an insight on how to earn trust & respect in order to gain leadership qualities.
- Veteran Pet Support Services (VPS) providing support for veterinary care, grooming, boarding and resources for military veterans pets in need. Approval is on a case by case basis.
All of our services are provided at NO COST to the Veteran. This is our way of saying, “Thank You For Your Service”.
Join our growing list of community sponsors today!
ANNOUNCING VIKING BAGS AS A COMMUNITY SPONSOR
VIKING BAGS has generously donated one riding backpack to be raffled off at our next event!
Click here to check out Viking Bags!
Thank you for your service!
Our Founders: James & Luv
Our Founders: James & Luv
Our Founders: James & Luv
James lost his brother, a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, to death by suicide. In his memory, The Veteran Mentor Project, Inc. was founded in 2021.
James and Luv saw a need for transition assistance for Military Veterans and veteran First Responders back to civilian life, James & Luv co-founded VMPI with the goal of mentoring America’s Heroes through the process. They know transition from service can be challenging. They believe good mental health and wellness are critical to a successful transition from service.
James & Luv are both U.S. Army Veterans and are lead Mentors in our Veteran Education and Training for Success (V.E.T.S.) Program.
Please see our Board of Directors page for more information!
Our Mission
Our Founders: James & Luv
Our Founders: James & Luv
The mission of the Veteran Mentor Project, Inc. is to enhance military veterans* & first responder veterans’ transition from service to civilian life. We provide resources for education, reducing stress, and improving overall quality of life.
Our values of The Veteran Mentor Project Inc. are to Leave no veteran behind. We strive to inclusively offer coaching, guidance, and mentorship of the highest caliber to contribute to the overall success of those we serve.
Our Vision is to focus on prevention of veteran & first responder death by suicide and mental health issues by providing guidance and leadership through the transition process from service to civilian life.
Our Team
Our Founders: James & Luv
Our Team
Our amazing team of Veteran and First Responder volunteers are committed to helping others. Our Mentors were enlisted, officers, and first responders of all ranks who separated from service for many different reasons. Each have met the challenge and are ready, willing and able to Mentor. We take our convictions and turn them into action. Think you would be a good fit? Get in touch for more information!
The VMPI also advocates for veterans, first responders, and their family members. Advocacy is an important part of outreach. Together we can make a difference.
Whether is recommending a trusted resources, recommending a HERO for an award, or simply having a one on one conversation, these connections make a difference!
TESTIMONIALS
USMC VETERAN
ACTIVE US ARMY OFFICER
USMC VETERAN
“Thanks for everything. You and your resources are seriously saving lives. You have done more in 2 days than the VA, state of Wisconsin, and all veteran organizations. Honest to God."
- G.R. USMC COMBAT VETERAN (RETIRED)
USAF VETERAN
ACTIVE US ARMY OFFICER
USMC VETERAN
"When I was getting out of the military, I did not want to be another veteran who didn’t have their ducks
in a row before transitioning. I served 10 years of active duty and had a great career; I did not want to
back track. In the midst of transitioning, I was introduced to VMPI to help me with some of my
transitioning questions. You hear ab
"When I was getting out of the military, I did not want to be another veteran who didn’t have their ducks
in a row before transitioning. I served 10 years of active duty and had a great career; I did not want to
back track. In the midst of transitioning, I was introduced to VMPI to help me with some of my
transitioning questions. You hear about a lot of these so called “Veteran” programs that are in place to
help the transitioning process, but most fall short. I can tell you that VMPI did not fall short, nor did
they meet my needs, they exceeded my needs. They weren’t only there for me when I transitioned, I
still talk to my mentor and we don’t just talk, they actually check on my well-being.
"This program is
more than an aid for a time in your life, it’s an aid to push you forward in life while supporting you and
your personal goals. With all the help I received I wanted to pay it forward learning so much, I have
been able to assist 112 military members with answers to their questions about what is best for them
and their families. I wouldn’t have been able to help so many without the dedicated staff at VMPI. My
main mentor was James Espinoza and I will never be able to thank him enough for the compassion and
just real life experience he shared with me. I also sent James a couple military members who needed
guidance with career sets outside of my wheelhouse and through his connections he was able to
connect them with the right people. I have to say I would not have been as ready as I was if it was not
for VMPI."
- J.S. US AIR FORCE VETERAN, NOW ACTIVE LEO
ACTIVE US ARMY OFFICER
ACTIVE US ARMY OFFICER
ACTIVE US ARMY OFFICER
"When I first met VMPI President, James Espinoza, MS, it was to ask if he could give me some quick advice about applying to be a police officer. I only expected a quick phone (call) where I would receive some cliff notes about the application process. To my surprise, he offered for me the opportunity to meet (in person) and devote time ou
"When I first met VMPI President, James Espinoza, MS, it was to ask if he could give me some quick advice about applying to be a police officer. I only expected a quick phone (call) where I would receive some cliff notes about the application process. To my surprise, he offered for me the opportunity to meet (in person) and devote time out of his day to give me his advice on the application process.
Afterwards, he held a mock interview for me and has since been a person I could turn to for advice on the subject matter. I never felt rushed and could see that he was willing to take the time to help me achieve my goal. I have come away feeling more knowledgeable and confidEnt in my own abilities due to James' efforts.
"James has also made sure to keep my spirits up when things were not going my way. Although I have known James only for a short period of time, I can say whole heartily that he has made a positive impact on my life and will be a huge reason why I have not given up on my goal to become a police officer." - G.G. US ARMY OFFICER, ACTIVE
Click below to support our vetted partners!
OUR VETTED PARTNERS & Trusted resources
Contact Us
Let’s chat and see if a Mentor is right for you!
We love our Veterans and First Responders.
Contact us by email, phone, or via text! We would love to connect!
Phone:
805.387.4492
Email:
VeteranMentorProject@gmail.com
Mailing Address:
1230 Madera Rd.
Suite 5-320
Simi Valley, CA 93065
The Veteran Mentor Project, Inc.
