Welcome to My Friends in Philanthropy, the podcast dedicated to sharing the stories, struggles, and hope behind the organizations and individuals making a real difference.

What does it really mean to serve, and what happens after? In this episode, Patti Parker sits down again with Cindy Parsons, a Wounded Warrior Project representative who doesn't just speak about the mission, she has lived it.

Together, Patti and Cindy speak directly to warriors, caregivers, and families who feel alone, afraid, or unsure of where to turn. They break down the critical work of Wounded Warrior Project, its no-cost programs, and how they support both families and veterans emotionally, physically, financially, and practically.

This is an emotional, heartfelt episode about courage, loss, community, and the bravery it takes to ask for help. If you or someone you love has been impacted by military service, PTSD, or life-changing injury, this conversation may be the most important one you hear today.

Here's what we cover:

• How Wounded Warrior Project was founded in 2003 and what it stands for today
• Why invisible wounds, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, survivor's guilt, and military sexual trauma, are just as real as physical ones
• The Warrior Care Network: a free, world-renowned outpatient mental health program
• How WWP now supports active duty service members, not just post-9/11 veterans
• The free services available including mental health care, adaptive sports, career counseling, financial wellness, and benefits guidance
• How WWP supports the families and children of wounded warriors
• The WWP Talk App that connects alumni to local events and peer support
• Why WWP is 100% donation-funded and how charitable contributions may be tax deductible
• How to access WWP services and what documentation post-9/11 veterans need to get started

If you are a veteran, service member, caregiver, or family member in need of support: 📞 Call: 877-TEAM-WWP (832-6997) 🌐 Visit: woundedwarriorproject.org

Patti Parker, CFP®, is the host of My Friends in Philanthropy and the founder of Discovery Financial, an independent advisory firm specializing in guiding clients through major life transitions such as retirement, marriage, divorce, or loss. With more than 20 years of experience in financial planning—and a prior career as a Registered Nurse—Parker brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion to her work, helping hundreds of individuals make confident financial decisions during challenging times. Through her podcast and her advisory practice, she is committed to elevating community impact and empowering people to navigate change with clarity and trust. Learn more about Patti's advising here: https://www.discoverywealthmanagement.com/our-team