OUR PEOPLE
Volunteer Spotlight
CVF runs on the heart and hands of our volunteers. Meet the people who make our mission possible.
Featured Volunteer
Star Traywick Nance
Founder, Community for Veteran Families · Veteran Advocate
Founder of CVF whose family's deep military legacy fuels her mission to honor and support veteran families.
Featured Volunteer
Wesley “Shorty” Salmans
U.S. Army Master Sergeant (Ret.) · CVF Volunteer Coordinator, 2022–2024
A 22-year Army veteran who has spent decades honoring veterans and their families through service.
Featured Volunteer
Merlene Salmans
Board Member · Volunteer · Daughter of U.S. Army Master Sergeant (Ret.) Wesley "Shorty" Salmans
Some legacies are inherited. Merlene Salmans inherited one built on service — and she has carried it forward every day of her life.
Featured Volunteer
Alex Gilmore
Board Member, At Large · VA Navigation Specialist · U.S. Navy · 2nd Class Petty Officer E-5 (Ret.) · 100% Service-Connected Disabled Veteran
Alex Gilmore knows what it means to need help — and he has spent decades making sure other veterans don't have to face that alone.
Featured Volunteer
Alexi "Lexie" Salas
Board Member · Community Volunteer · Veteran & Military Family Advocate · Former Young Marine · San Antonio Young Marines Mentor
CVF's youngest board member — a former Young Marine and mentor whose leadership, fresh perspective, and relentless commitment are shaping the future of the mission.
Featured Volunteer
Karen Minson
Founder, Paws 4 Hearts WTD · Therapy Dog Handler
Founder of Paws 4 Hearts WTD, bringing nearly 30 years of therapy dog work to comfort service members and veteran families.
Featured Volunteer
Patti Jacobs
Volunteer · Military Family Advocate
A military brat whose lifelong respect for service and family draws her to support veteran families through CVF.
Featured Volunteer
Melissa Camacho
Volunteer · Community Connector
The right connection at the right moment can change everything. Melissa Camacho has spent a lifetime building them — and putting them to work for others.