#United States #Tampa #Operation Healing Forces #Catalyst Ignite #Stand Together Foundation

Operation Healing Forces Joins Catalyst Ignite Program

In a remarkable development for non-profit initiatives addressing community needs, Operation Healing Forces has been selected to participate in the Catalyst Ignite experience, hosted by the Stand Together Foundation. This prestigious program focuses on empowering leading social entrepreneurs who are committed to tackling some of the most pressing challenges faced in communities across the United States.

A Mission Aligned with Community Needs

Operation Healing Forces is a national non-profit organization dedicated to serving the United States Special Operations Forces community, which includes active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families. This organization provides vital support designed to meet both immediate and long-term needs of those who have sacrificed for the nation. The selection into the Catalyst Ignite program is a recognition of Operation Healing Forces' ongoing efforts to foster resilience and healing among its members.

In 2025, Operation Healing Forces was able to support around 3,200 individuals from the Special Operations Forces community, providing over $4 million in resources. This was accomplished through a range of initiatives, including 600 Immediate Needs and Crisis Support grants—totaling nearly $1 million—and 55 Therapeutic Retreats that benefited 420 community members.

A Competitive Selection Process

The Catalyst Ignite program is known for its highly selective nature, with Operation Healing Forces being one of only 15 organizations chosen from hundreds nationwide. The selection process evaluated numerous non-profit organizations based on their innovative approaches and commitment to community-driven solutions. Stand Together Foundation emphasizes such measures to disrupt traditional methods and find better ways to empower individuals and communities alike.

Amber Fogarty, managing director at Stand Together Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about welcoming this new cohort of non-profits into the Catalyst Community, remarking, "These organizations are already demonstrating better ways to empower people by innovating, experimenting, and challenging the status quo."

The Goals of Catalyst Ignite

The Catalyst Ignite experience spans across a year and is aimed at enhancing the organizational health and impact of selected social entrepreneurs. Through this program, organizations will receive access to tools, coaching, capital, and expansive networks to accelerate their initiatives and foster an environment ripe for transformation.

Kerry Irvin, CEO of Operation Healing Forces, shared the excitement of joining the Catalyst Ignite program, stating, "This represents an opportunity to challenge assumptions, strengthen organizational health, and expand what is achievable for the Special Operations Forces community. We are eager to collaborate with fellow social entrepreneurs dedicated to building resilient systems that prioritize care, connection, and stability."

About Stand Together Foundation

Stand Together Foundation is committed to empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential through community-driven innovations. The foundation works to unite social entrepreneurs with a shared belief in people and a focus on creating conditions for collaboration and support. More information can be found at their website.

Conclusion

As Operation Healing Forces embarks on this transformative journey within the Catalyst Ignite program, the organization aims to further develop effective solutions to uplift the Special Operations Forces community. This opportunity not only reflects their commitment to service but also sets a precedent for innovative approaches in the nonprofit sector. With continued support, Operation Healing Forces is poised to lead impactful change for those who serve our nation.