The Mandatum Foundation

We're proud to launch our redesigned website, which was made possible through our partnership with MasterBorn. Their team delivered exceptional design work that powerfully communicates our mission while meeting our tight timeline requirements. A special acknowledgment to Julia H?cia for her outstanding design execution that captures the essence of what we do. MasterBorn's pro bono contribution of time and expertise demonstrates their commitment to supporting Naval Special Operations members in their transition to civilian life. This type of partnership enables us to direct more resources toward our core mission. We're grateful to have MasterBorn as an ally in our continued work supporting America's elite warriors. Check out our new website here ?? https://lnkd.in/gtt8qat4

Meet Eric Donahue, a former Navy SEAL who successfully transitioned to business ownership with Mandatum's support: "The Mandatum Foundation played a crucial role in my transition from the Navy SEAL Teams to entrepreneurship, providing me with the guidance, resources, and mentorship needed to successfully acquire and operate a small business. After 20 years of service, stepping into the business world presented a new set of challenges, but Mandatum’s support helped bridge that gap. Their network connected me with industry professionals and acquisition veterans, ensuring I had the tools to build a strong foundation. Through their mentorship, I was able to apply the leadership, discipline, and strategic thinking I developed in the SEAL Teams to running a successful paving company, allowing me to continue leading teams and making an impact in my community." Company: Peninsula Paving, Inc. is a Hampton, Virginia based asphalt paving and repair company that has been an integral part of the paving industry in the Hampton Roads market since 2000. We specialize in commercial and government contracts with a small concentration in residential driveways. We have extensive experience in new construction of parking lots, community walking trails, golf cart paths and asphalt repairs of any size.

What an incredible evening at our Nashville fundraiser hosted by John Rich! We're deeply grateful to John and the amazing performers who donated their talent - Big and Rich and Jeffrey Steele delivered unforgettable performances that truly made the night special. We are thrilled and profoundly grateful to announce that we raised an incredible $600,000 - tripling last year's total! This remarkable achievement will have a tremendous impact on our ability to support Naval Special Warfare Operations members in their transition to civilian life. The event wouldn't have been possible without our dedicated partners. Special thanks to MISSION BBQ, Lipman Bros, and Arbo's Cheese Dip for providing outstanding food and drinks, to our photographers Joseph Castle and Julia Hartung for capturing the memorable moments and Elizabeth Swearingen with ES Design Collective for her exceptional graphic design work. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to auctioneer Kevin Herron and our generous auction item donors: Rocky Mountain Tactical Group, Willett Distillery, Goodman Knives, Barrett Firearms Mfg, Inc, Smoke Wagon, Superior Outfitters, Lost Bucks Ranch, Custom and Collectable Firearms, John Clement, SIG SAUER, Inc., CNC FEDERAL SUPPLIES LLC, and Justin Hoffman. Thank you to Active Charity volunteers and co-founders Jason Skeoch, Dan Michie, and Rob Nowacek for their tireless support, and to all our guests who made this event a success. Your generosity directly impacts our mission of supporting transitioning Naval Special Operations members. Together, we're making a difference in the lives of America's elite warriors as they begin their next chapter. We look forward to next year's event and all that's in store for the remainder of 2025!

Discover the meaning behind The Mandatum Foundation logo and the powerful symbolism of the downward-facing trident. As retiring Naval Special Warfare operators transition to civilian life, this emblem represents both their distinguished service and our commitment to supporting their next mission.

We are excited to announce that Kimberly B. is stepping into a new leadership role as Co-Chair of our Advisory Board! Kimberly has been an integral part of our organization from the very beginning. As one of our early members, she played a key role in expanding our network—introducing us to some of the most influential members of our advisory board. The ripple effect of her relationships has opened countless doors, strengthened our mission, and expanded our reach. As Executive Director, Kim brought structure, strategy, and a relentless drive to move our mission forward. From setting up our operational framework and organizing key meetings to facilitating strategic partnerships, she has been at the heart of our progress. Her leadership has helped us navigate challenges, refine our approach, and continue delivering impact for transitioning Naval Special Warfare operators. In addition to her leadership as Executive Director, Kim has also served as the Executive Coach for our Fellows, guiding them through one of the most critical transitions of their lives—retirement from service. Her hands-on coaching has ensured that every Fellow finds a meaningful career path, leveraging their unique skills and experiences in impactful ways. Kim has also been instrumental in leading Fellow bootcamps—a crash course in business and professional growth that has empowered our members in their post-service careers. This next step is a natural evolution of Kimberly’s leadership. As Co-Chair of the Advisory Board, she will continue shaping our strategic direction, strengthening our network, and ensuring that every Fellow is set up for long-term success. Please join us in celebrating Kimberly’s contributions and her continued impact in this next chapter!

We’re excited to announce a new chapter at the Mandatum Foundation! Please join us in welcoming Aric Stahly as our new Executive Director. Aric brings a wealth of experience from his distinguished career as a Special Warfare Operator and as a leader in the private sector, where he has excelled in operational strategy, process improvement, and team building. His experience navigating the transition process our fellows undertake makes him an invaluable resource and mentor for our organization. This transition is only possible because of the incredible leadership of Kimberly Byers whose success has demonstrated the need for her to step upwards into a new role where her impact can grow even further. We’re thrilled that she will continue to play a vital role in our leadership team and step into a new position as Co-Chair of the Advisory Board, where she will provide invaluable strategic direction and ensure our mission remains at the forefront of everything we do. This marks an exciting opportunity for growth and innovation as we continue to expand our impact. With Aric’s leadership and Kimberly’s continued involvement, we’re confident the Mandatum Foundation will reach new heights while staying true to the values that have brought us here. Please join us in thanking Kimberly for her extraordinary contributions and welcoming Aric as we embark on this next chapter together!

The Mandatum Foundation was born to meet a need recognized by Navy SEALs in 2022. Our name carries our mission - it's our mandate to support these exceptional operators in their transition to meaningful civilian careers. Through targeted programs and a powerful network, we help Naval Special Warfare veterans find purpose in their next chapter.?

Happy New Year from The Mandatum Foundation! As we enter 2025, we're grateful for our donors and supporters who make it possible to serve retiring Naval Special Warfare operators in their transition to civilian life. Your dedication to our mission ensures we can continue supporting these elite warriors in their next chapter. Here's to another year of making a difference together.

The Mandatum Foundation experienced remarkable growth in 2024, significantly expanding our network of support for transitioning Naval Special Operations Veterans. We achieved a 120% increase in industry connections, more than tripled our mentor pool, and substantially grew our formal partnerships through signed MOUs. Our impact this year included meaningful fellow engagement through coaching hours, successful career transitions, and program completions. We strengthened our community through events like our Family Day at New Realm Brewing, bringing together Fellows, families, and supporters. These achievements have strengthened our ability to provide comprehensive support to our Fellows during their retirement process and into their next civilian career. We look forward to building on this momentum in 2025.

From all of us at The Mandatum Foundation, we wish you a Merry Christmas.??To our Naval Special Warfare operators serving away from their families this holiday season - your sacrifice does not go unnoticed and you have the unwavering support of this proud nation. Thank you to our dedicated donors who make it possible to support these elite warriors in their transition to civilian life. Your generosity helps us fulfill our mission of serving those who have served our nation with such distinction.