LOS ANGELES, CA (December 4, 2017) — Tomorrow, IAVA Executive Director Allison Jaslow will headline the Today I’m Brave speaker series in Los Angeles, CA, joining a notable group of veteran leaders for an inspiring speaking program. Today I’m Brave, a nonprofit whose mission is to inspire individuals and organizations through Brave initiatives and by sharing Brave stories, will host four veterans to talk about their extraordinary circumstances and the meaning of bravery in their lives. Proceeds from the speaking event will directly support IAVA and its mission to connect, unite and empower Post-9/11 veterans. IAVA is honored to have the support of Today I’m Brave, which was founded by David Angelo, IAVA Board Member and the son of a veteran.

WHAT:  Four inspiring veterans talk candidly about their extraordinary circumstances and the meaning of bravery in their lives. Event link here. 

WHEN:  Tuesday, December 5; doors open at 6 pm PT

WHERE:  Playa Studios, Culver City

SPEAKERS: 

Allison Jaslow is a former Army Captain who bravely served twice in Iraq. As Executive Director for the IAVA, she is one of the nation’s leading voices and advocates for the post-9/11 generation of veterans. She has spearheaded the ground-breaking women veterans’ initiative #SheWhoBorneTheBattle.

Daniel Rodriguez fought in the infamous Battle of Kamdesh Afghanistan, and for his bravery was awarded a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. He later earned a spot on the Clemson University football team playing in 37 consecutive games. After graduating as a three time All ACC Academic, Daniel continued to pursue football and was signed as an undrafted free agent to the now LA Rams. 

Cody Elliot served two tours of duty as a Marine Lance Corporal and Machine gun squad leader in Afghanistan. While on his second tour he stepped on a landmine. The explosion tore off his left leg, sent shrapnel throughout his body, and he nearly lost his life. Since his amazing recovery, Cody has dedicated his life to pursuing his passions and sharing his story with others. 

Wes Clark, Jr., former army lieutenant, activist and screenwriter. Wes risked his life when he organized the deployment of thousands of veterans who stood with the Native American water protectors against the militarized police during the Dakota Access Pipeline protests. He also famously apologized to the Sioux nation on behalf of the US military.

ABOUT:

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is the leading post-9/11 veteran empowerment organization (VEO) with the most diverse and rapidly growing membership in America. As a non-profit founded in 2004, IAVA’s mission is to connect, unite and empower post-9/11 veterans. IAVA has connected millions of veterans with resources and community, and provided more than 8,000 veterans with personalized support from IAVA’s Master’s level social workers.

Today, I’m Brave is a fiscally sponsored nonprofit whose mission is to inspire individuals and organizations through Brave initiatives and by sharing Brave stories. Because the braver we are, the more fear we can conquer. And when we conquer fear, we can accomplish anything and, together, create positive change around the world.

CONTACT:  To RSVP or schedule an interview, contact press@IAVA.org.