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At Valor & Honor Outdoors, we’re more than just an outdoor nonprofit—we’re a community committed to honoring service members, veterans, first responders, and their families through life-changing outdoor adventures.
With a focus on meaningful connections, zero-cost experiences, and an all-volunteer staff, we create lasting memories that heal, inspire, and unite.
From unforgettable outdoor experiences to the emotional connections forged, these stories inspire us to continue our mission of honoring and supporting our military heroes.
“Provide opportunities to military service members, veterans, and first responders, and their families where they may find healing, camaraderie, and renewal through the power of the great outdoors.“
We recognize the sacrifices of our military personnel, first responders, and their families, and are dedicated to giving back through meaningful outdoor experiences.
We foster a strong sense of belonging and support among participants, volunteers, and families. We want to offer experiences that harken back to the same bonds forged in “team rooms,” “squad bays,” and “roll calls.”
We believe in the restorative power of nature and the bonds built in the outdoors to improve mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health.
We operate with honesty, transparency, and a deep respect for both the people we serve and the outdoor resources we enjoy.
Our programs are powered entirely by volunteers, many who are past VHO participants that share a commitment to honoring our heroes through action.
Executive Director
Jason was recently appointed the Executive Director of Valor and Honor. Jason was first introduced to the organization and founder John Perez in 2020 and felt an immediate personal connection with the organization’s purpose and values. Since then, he has been active with Valor and Honor in various ways, organizing events for veteran outreach, networking and fundraising, and joining the Board of Directors. Jason’s passion stems from his friendship with Charles “Chuck” Keating IV, who was Jason’s roommate at Indiana University but who dropped out to pursue a career as a Navy Seal. After Chuck was killed overseas in 2016, Jason became a supporter of the C4 Foundation and Seal Future Foundation, attending events and establishing relationships with members of the community. This led him to understanding the great need in the special warfare community, not only for therapy but also for transitional support. Jason received a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management in 2008. He returned to Atlanta to work in the family business Kitchen Fronts of Georgia. He later took over management of the business after his father passed away in 2020. Jason lives in Altanta, GA with his wife Jessica and two dogs Riley and Porkchop.
Vice Director
Justin Norris, originally from South Carolina, is a distinguished veteran whose 13-year career in the Navy as a United States Navy SEAL took him to numerous combat theaters and the opportunity to serve amongst the best our country has to offer. After his service, he earned a B.S. in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis from Norwich University and an MBA from Purdue University. Today, he resides in western Colorado with his wife and two chocolate labs, embracing the rugged beauty of his surroundings.
As a former participant of Valor and Honor Outdoors, Justin is humbled to serve as Vice Director, dedicating his efforts to support active-duty members and veterans. His passion for western big game hunting is deeply rooted in his belief that nothing else can mimic the camaraderie of the platoon space as the great outdoors can. Through his leadership and love for nature, Justin continues to foster bonds of service and brotherhood both in and out of uniform.
Events Director
Nick Salo is a fifth-generation outdoorsman from Montana, as well as a husband, father, and veteran Army Ranger with two decades of service, including eighteen years within Special Operations. He holds a B.S. in Organizational Leadership from the University of Charleston (WV) and multiple technical certifications. Nick’s military career included operations across multiple combat theaters, and he has been recognized as a prominent advocate for innovation within the Special Operations Forces community.
An avid outdoorsman who loves the elk woods, Nick recognizes the restorative power of nature and is committed to extending its benefits to veterans, first responders, and their families. Having transitioned from a VHO participant, who directly benefited from the program’s blend of community and accessibility, to Events Director, he possesses an invaluable understanding of its impact. His dedication stems from a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by these individuals, and he strives to create a supportive environment for healing and connection.
Director of Communication
Ty is originally from Morganton, NC. He is a graduate of The Citadel (1999) completing a B.S. in Physics and a graduate of Norwich University (2019) completing a M.S. in Leadership. Ty served as an Officer in the United States Marine Corps from 1999-2007 and in 2008 began his career in Federal Law Enforcement where he continues to currently serve. Ty is married to Brooke and has two sons; Britt (21) and Weston (16). Ty is an avid waterfowl hunter and fly fisherman and serves as a member of the Higdon and MoMarsh Pro-Staff. Ty has served Valor and Honor Outdoors as a field staff representative and coordinator and currently serves on the Board of Advisors.
Fundraising Director
Cameron is a seasoned nonprofit professional with over eight years of experience supporting and serving the Veteran community. Currently with the International Spy Museum, she is a highly respected fundraising and development professional, with success in individual, corporate, and foundation giving. She is deeply committed to giving back to Military, Veteran, and First Responder communities, dedicating much of her time to making a positive impact on those who serve. In her personal time, Cameron enjoys being a personal trainer, hiking, reading, and spending quality time with her husband and three dogs.
Advisory Director
Colonel George Lewis is a retired US Army veteran with 30 years of service, having led intelligence and special operations across multiple continents, including combat missions in Afghanistan and Iraq. He takes pride in ensuring the safe return of his soldiers and played a key role in significant operations, including the raid that killed Usama Bin Laden. Now, he focuses on developing technologies to enhance military effectiveness and protect Americans. Lewis holds multiple degrees, is a French linguist, and has received numerous military awards. He resides in Chowan County with his wife, Michele, and is actively involved in community service and supporting local youth through foundations honoring his son.
In 2024 VHO covered 14 states
